Abstract

A hybrid projector architecture combines steered light with unsteered light. In some embodiments the steered light is narrowband light and the unsteered light is broadband light. Splitting between the steered and unsteered light may be determined based on luminance level. For example, the unsteered light may contribute a large proportion of the light for luminance levels up to a threshold. The steered light may contribute an increasing proportion of the light as luminance values rise above the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Example embodiments of the described technology provide efficient light steering systems and methods. An example method for steering light for a projector system comprises illuminating an active surface of a light steering module. The active surface of the light steering module may comprise a plurality of individually controllable pixels. The method may also comprise determining a target steering phase pattern for each of a plurality of distinct regions of the active surface of the light steering module. The method may also comprise controlling the light steering module according to the corresponding target steering phase pattern for each region to increase light steering efficiency.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G03H 1/22 - Processes or apparatus for obtaining an optical image from holograms
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G03H 1/08 - Synthesising holograms

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 27/48 - Laser speckle optics
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G03B 21/26 - Projecting separately subsidiary matter simultaneously with main image
• G03B 35/20 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing using two or more projectors
• H04N 13/332 - Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]
• H04N 13/363 - Image reproducers using image projection screens

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 27/50 - Optics for phase object visualisation
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor

Abstract

Apparatus for additive manufacturing includes a light source that emits light into an optical path that extends to a powder bed or other platform for additive manufacturing. A phase modulator in the optical path is controlled to present a 2D pattern of phase shifts that steer the light to provide a desired pattern of optical power density on the powder bed. In some embodiments the optical path includes elements that focus the light into a small spot on the powder bed and a scanner operative to scan the spot over the powder bed. In some embodiments the light from the optical path is distributed over an area of the powder bed. A pattern of optical power density within the spot or area may be altered by changing the data controlling the phase modulator.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 64/291 - Arrangements for irradiation for operating globally, e.g. together with selectively applied activators or inhibitors
• B29C 64/282 - Arrangements for irradiation using multiple radiation means, e.g. micromirrors or multiple light-emitting diodes [LED] of the same type, e.g. using different energy levels
• B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
• B29C 64/273 - Arrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB] pulsedArrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB] frequency modulated

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for colour grading may be implemented to improve the efficiency of colour grading digital content. Features of the apparatus and methods include: automatic detection of differences between image data and rendered images, automatic suggestions for colour grading, detection and communication of temporal effects, guidance for selecting an order of frames for grading, automated QC processes, and/or reference monitor emulation.

IPC Classes  ?

• G09G 3/20 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix
• H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
• G06F 3/14 - Digital output to display device
• H04N 9/64 - Circuits for processing colour signals

Abstract

A hybrid projector architecture combines steered light with unsteered light. In some embodiments the steered light is narrowband light and the unsteered light is broadband light. Splitting between the steered and unsteered light may be determined based on luminance level. For example, the unsteered light may contribute a large proportion of the light for luminance levels up to a threshold. The steered light may contribute an increasing proportion of the light as luminance values rise above the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/50 - Optics for phase object visualisation
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 27/48 - Laser speckle optics
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G03B 21/26 - Projecting separately subsidiary matter simultaneously with main image
• G03B 35/20 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing using two or more projectors
• H04N 13/332 - Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]
• H04N 13/363 - Image reproducers using image projection screens

Abstract

Apparatus for additive manufacturing includes a light source that emits light into an optical path that extends to a powder bed or other platform for additive manufacturing. A phase modulator in the optical path is controlled to present a 2D pattern of phase shifts that steer the light to provide a desired pattern of optical power density on the powder bed. In some embodiments the optical path includes elements that focus the light into a small spot on the powder bed and a scanner operative to scan the spot over the powder bed. In some embodiments the light from the optical path is distributed over an area of the powder bed. A pattern of optical power density within the spot or area may be altered by changing the data controlling the phase modulator.

IPC Classes  ?

• B22F 10/36 - Process control of energy beam parameters
• B22F 10/28 - Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
• B22F 12/44 - Radiation means characterised by the configuration of the radiation means
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
• B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes

Abstract

Apparatus for additive manufacturing includes a light source that emits light into an optical path that extends to a powder bed or other platform for additive manufacturing. A phase modulator in the optical path is controlled to present a 2D pattern of phase shifts that steer the light to provide a desired pattern of optical power density on the powder bed. In some embodiments the optical path includes elements that focus the light into a small spot on the powder bed and a scanner operative to scan the spot over the powder bed. In some embodiments the light from the optical path is distributed over an area of the powder bed. A pattern of optical power density within the spot or area may be altered by changing the data controlling the phase modulator.

IPC Classes  ?

• B22F 10/36 - Process control of energy beam parameters
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
• B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
• B22F 10/28 - Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
• B22F 12/44 - Radiation means characterised by the configuration of the radiation means

Abstract

Example embodiments provide systems and methods for correcting non-uniformities of a light beam generated by a multi-emitter light source. In some embodiments a phase modulator displays patch lenses to correct for the non-uniformities. In some embodiments each region of the phase modulator is illuminated by a beam generated by one emitter of the multi-emitter light source. Such region of the phase modulator may display a patch lens for correcting non-uniformities in the corresponding beam which illuminates the region.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/14 - Beam splitting or combining systems operating by reflection only

Abstract

Example embodiments provide systems and methods for correcting non-uniformities of a light beam generated by a multi-emitter light source. In some embodiments a phase modulator displays patch lenses to correct for the non-uniformities. In some embodiments each region of the phase modulator is illuminated by a beam generated by one emitter of the multi-emitter light source. Such region of the phase modulator may display a patch lens for correcting non-uniformities in the corresponding beam which illuminates the region.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/14 - Beam splitting or combining systems operating by reflection only

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically-addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

IPC Classes  ?

• F21K 9/60 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• F21V 29/90 - Heating arrangements
• F21K 9/61 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction using light guides

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/50 - Optics for phase object visualisation
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A hybrid projector architecture combines steered light with unsteered light. In some embodiments the steered light is narrowband light and the unsteered light is broadband light. Splitting between the steered and unsteered light may be determined based on luminance level. For example, the unsteered light may contribute a large proportion of the light for luminance levels up to a threshold. The steered light may contribute an increasing proportion of the light as luminance values rise above the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/50 - Optics for phase object visualisation
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

A free-form lens (for example a phase modulator, lens or deformable mirror) may be made to reproduce a light pattern specified by image data. Source regions on the free-form lens are mapped to target regions areas on an image. Areas of the source regions are adjusted to vary the amount of light delivered to each of the target regions. Adjustment of the source areas may be achieved using a L-BFGS optimization which preferably incorporates smoothness and curl regularizers. Embodiments apply parallel processing to obtain control values for a free form lens in real time or near real time. Apparatus may process image data and display an image by controlling a dynamically variable free form lens using the processed image data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 3/08 - Simple or compound lenses with non-spherical faces with discontinuous faces, e.g. Fresnel lens
• G02B 3/02 - Simple or compound lenses with non-spherical faces
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors, Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G03B 35/20 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing using two or more projectors
• G02B 27/48 - Laser speckle optics
• G03B 21/26 - Projecting separately subsidiary matter simultaneously with main image
• H04N 13/332 - Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]
• H04N 13/363 - Image reproducers using image projection screens
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/09 - Beam shaping, e.g. changing the cross-sectioned area, not otherwise provided for
• G03H 1/22 - Processes or apparatus for obtaining an optical image from holograms
• G02B 27/30 - Collimators
• G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements
• G09G 3/00 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes

Abstract

A hybrid projector architecture combines steered light with unsteered light. In some embodiments the steered light is narrowband light and the unsteered light is broadband light. Splitting between the steered and unsteered light may be determined based on luminance level. For example, the unsteered light may contribute a large proportion of the light for luminance levels up to a threshold. The steered light may contribute an increasing proportion of the light as luminance values rise above the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• H01S 5/00 - Semiconductor lasers

Abstract

A hybrid projector architecture combines steered light with unsteered light. In some embodiments the steered light is narrowband light and the unsteered light is broadband light. Splitting between the steered and unsteered light may be determined based on luminance level. For example, the unsteered light may contribute a large proportion of the light for luminance levels up to a threshold. The steered light may contribute an increasing proportion of the light as luminance values rise above the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• H01S 5/00 - Semiconductor lasers

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically-addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/10 - Beam splitting or combining systems
• G02B 26/00 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements
• G02F 1/03 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on ceramics or electro-optical crystals, e.g. exhibiting Pockels or Kerr effect
• G02B 17/00 - Systems with reflecting surfaces, with or without refracting elements
• G02B 5/08 - Mirrors
• F21K 9/60 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• F21V 29/90 - Heating arrangements
• F21K 9/61 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction using light guides
• F21Y 115/30 - Semiconductor lasers
• F21Y 115/10 - Light-emitting diodes [LED]

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 27/50 - Optics for phase object visualisation
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

A free-form lens (for example a phase modulator, lens or deformable mirror) may be made to reproduce a light pattern specified by image data. Source regions on the free-form lens are mapped to target regions areas on an image. Areas of the source regions are adjusted to vary the amount of light delivered to each of the target regions. Adjustment of the source areas may be achieved using a L-BFGS optimization which preferably incorporates smoothness and curl regularizers. Embodiments apply parallel processing to obtain control values for a free form lens in real time or near real time. Apparatus may process image data and display an image by controlling a dynamically variable free form lens using the processed image data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 3/02 - Simple or compound lenses with non-spherical faces
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements
• G02B 3/08 - Simple or compound lenses with non-spherical faces with discontinuous faces, e.g. Fresnel lens
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically-addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/10 - Beam splitting or combining systems
• G02B 26/00 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements
• G02F 1/03 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on ceramics or electro-optical crystals, e.g. exhibiting Pockels or Kerr effect
• G02B 17/00 - Systems with reflecting surfaces, with or without refracting elements
• G02B 5/08 - Mirrors
• F21K 9/60 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• F21V 29/90 - Heating arrangements
• F21K 9/61 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction using light guides
• F21Y 115/30 - Semiconductor lasers
• F21Y 115/10 - Light-emitting diodes [LED]

Abstract

A free-form lens (for example a phase modulator, lens or deformable mirror) may be made to reproduce a light pattern specified by image data. Source regions on the free-form lens are mapped to target regions areas on an image. Areas of the source regions are adjusted to vary the amount of light delivered to each of the target regions. Adjustment of the source areas may be achieved using a L-BFGS optimization which preferably incorporates smoothness and curl regularizers. Embodiments apply parallel processing to obtain control values for a free form lens in real time or near real time. Apparatus may process image data and display an image by controlling a dynamically variable free form lens using the processed image data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G02B 3/02 - Simple or compound lenses with non-spherical faces

Abstract

Images are formed in a projection system using separate image forming elements for each of red, green, and blue light and then combining these images on a screen. Manufacturers desire to make projectors as inexpensively as possible while image forming elements such as high resolution DMDs are expensive. In some high dynamic range (ôHDRö) projection systems a phase modulator (e.g. an LCOS phase modulator) may be combined with a DMD amplitude modulator. To reduce costs, a HDR projector uses a field sequential technique which would involve a phase modulator. Phase modulators have slow response time such that a human observer can easily perceive individual colour fields in a field sequential application. Embodiments are described which use field sequential projection techniques that are practiced using a single DMD in a projector that uses an LCOS phase modulator and a DMD amplitude modulator to achieve both speed and low-cost requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

Image display apparatus and methods may use a single imaging element such as a digital mirror device (DMD) to spatially modulate plural color channels. A color channel may include a light steering element such as a phase modulator. Steered light from a light steering element may be combined with or replaced by additional light to better display bright images. These technologies may be provided together or applied individually.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 3/22 - Circuits for controlling dimensions, shape or centering of picture on screen
• H04N 3/26 - Modifications of scanning arrangements to improve focusing
• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G03B 35/20 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing using two or more projectors
• G02B 27/48 - Laser speckle optics
• G02B 21/26 - StagesAdjusting means therefor
• H04N 13/363 - Image reproducers using image projection screens
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G03B 21/26 - Projecting separately subsidiary matter simultaneously with main image
• H04N 13/332 - Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 9/31 - Projection devices for colour picture display
• G03H 1/22 - Processes or apparatus for obtaining an optical image from holograms
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
• G02B 27/09 - Beam shaping, e.g. changing the cross-sectioned area, not otherwise provided for
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G09G 3/00 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
• G02B 27/30 - Collimators
• G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically- addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically- addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

A light source includes a plurality of laser diodes or other light emitters. Beams of light from the light emitters are steered to provide n array of parallel beams that illuminate a target area with an array of patches of light. In some embodiments the parallel beams are de-magnified to form the array of patches of light. Such a light source has application in illuminating dynamically-addressable focusing elements such as phase modulators, deformable mirrors and dynamically addressable lenses. Light projectors for a wide variety of applications may combine a light source as described herein with a dynamically- addressable focusing element to project defined patterns of light.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

A free-form lens (for example a phase modulator, lens or deformable mirror) may be made to reproduce a light pattern specified by image data. Source regions on the free-form lens are mapped to target regions areas on an image. Areas of the source regions are adjusted to vary the amount of light delivered to each of the target regions. Adjustment of the source areas may be achieved using a L-BFGS optimization which preferably incorporates smoothness and curl regularizers. Embodiments apply parallel processing to obtain control values for a free form lens in real time or near real time. Apparatus may process image data and display an image by controlling a dynamically variable free form lens using the processed image data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

A free-form lens (for example a phase modulator, lens or deformable mirror) may be made to reproduce a light pattern specified by image data. Source regions on the free-form lens are mapped to target regions areas on an image. Areas of the source regions are adjusted to vary the amount of light delivered to each of the target regions. Adjustment of the source areas may be achieved using a L-BFGS optimization which preferably incorporates smoothness and curl regularizers. Embodiments apply parallel processing to obtain control values for a free form lens in real time or near real time. Apparatus may process image data and display an image by controlling a dynamically variable free form lens using the processed image data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor

Abstract

A new projector design combines one spatial light modulator that affects only the phase of the illumination, and one spatial light modulator that only affects its amplitude (intensity). The phase-only modulator curves the wavefront of light and acts as a pre-modulator for a conventional amplitude modulator. This approach works with both white light and laser illumination, generating a coarse image representation efficiently, thus enabling, within a single image frame, significantly elevated highlights as well as darker black levels while reducing the overall light source power requirements.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 26/06 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the phase of light
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor

Abstract

Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
• G03B 21/00 - Projectors or projection-type viewersAccessories therefor
• G03B 35/20 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing using two or more projectors

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• B81B 7/02 - Microstructural systems containing distinct electrical or optical devices of particular relevance for their function, e.g. microelectro-mechanical systems [MEMS]
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• H04N 3/08 - Scanning details of television systemsCombination thereof with generation of supply voltages by optical-mechanical means only having a moving reflector
• H04N 5/66 - Transforming electric information into light information
• H04N 5/72 - Modifying the appearance of television pictures by optical filters or diffusing screens

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• F21S 10/00 - Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect
• G06T 1/00 - General purpose image data processing
• H04N 5/351 - Control of the SSIS depending on the scene, e.g. brightness or motion in the scene

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• F21S 10/00 - Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• H04N 5/72 - Modifying the appearance of television pictures by optical filters or diffusing screens
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• F21S 10/00 - Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect
• F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• G02B 27/28 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for polarising
• G06T 1/00 - General purpose image data processing

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 27/18 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups , for optical projection, e.g. combination of mirror and condenser and objective
• F21S 10/00 - Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• H04N 5/72 - Modifying the appearance of television pictures by optical filters or diffusing screens
• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
• G06T 1/00 - General purpose image data processing

Abstract

Undesirably high energy-consumption in illuminating devices can be caused at least in part by wasted (attenuated) light. Optically efficient illumination systems that may be used to project light, including images, use light redirection. Phase modulating devices may be applied to create desired light fields. Some embodiments provide dual or multiple modulation display or projection systems in which some or all of the modulators not only attenuate amplitude, but also amplify amplitude, or change the phase, frequency and polarization of the light provided by the light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/74 - Projection arrangements for image reproduction, e.g. using eidophor
• B81B 7/02 - Microstructural systems containing distinct electrical or optical devices of particular relevance for their function, e.g. microelectro-mechanical systems [MEMS]
• G02B 26/08 - Optical devices or arrangements for the control of light using movable or deformable optical elements for controlling the direction of light
• H04N 3/08 - Scanning details of television systemsCombination thereof with generation of supply voltages by optical-mechanical means only having a moving reflector
• H04N 5/66 - Transforming electric information into light information
• H04N 5/72 - Modifying the appearance of television pictures by optical filters or diffusing screens