JP6501031B2 - Image projection device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image projection apparatus.

  In recent years, it has been proposed to use a laser as a light source of an image projection apparatus such as a projector, and there are also cases where it is commercialized in a rear projector. In front projectors, there are safety issues, speckle problems in projection images, etc. Although the one using only a laser as a light source has not been put to practical use, the one combined with a phosphor is being put to practical use .

  The advantages of using only a laser as the light source of the image projection apparatus include, for example, improvement in color reproducibility, luminous efficiency, light utilization efficiency, etc. However, since it is a point light source (or parallel beam), the illumination system is designed One of the advantages is that it is easy to achieve, simplification of color composition, reduction of NA of projection lens (NA: Numerical Aperture, numerical aperture) and the like can be achieved.

  By the way, when only a laser is used as a light source of an image projection apparatus, how to secure the light quantity is an important subject, and as a means for solving this subject, many lasers are arranged in a matrix on one plane. It is proposed to arrange densely or densely in two dimensions (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  However, in the case where a large number of lasers are densely arranged, how to cool efficiently becomes a problem. Dense arrangement of a large number of lasers is effective in preventing an increase in the size of the image projection apparatus, but heat radiation becomes difficult and a powerful cooling means is required. On the other hand, it goes without saying that increasing the laser interval by giving priority to cooling increases the size of the image projection device, but when equalizing the light intensity with a rod integrator, the incident angle becomes too large and the optical system It may not be the case.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an image projection apparatus having improved heat dissipation while using a plurality of light sources.

The present image projection apparatus is disposed to face a first light source unit provided with a first laser light source for emitting light of a predetermined color, and the first light source unit, and the light of the predetermined color is A second light source unit having a second laser light source for emitting light of the same color, light emitted from the first laser light source, and light emitted from the second laser light source are internally reflected A rod integrator for emitting reflected light, and a first reflecting member disposed on an optical path between the first laser light source and the rod integrator, for reflecting light emitted from the first laser light source. A second reflecting member is disposed on the optical path between the second laser light source and the rod integrator, and reflects the light emitted by the second laser light source, and the reflected light emitted from the rod integrator Form to form an image A rear surface of a reflection surface for reflecting light emitted from the first laser light source of the first reflection member, and a projection lens for projecting an image formed on the image forming unit; The second reflecting member is disposed so as to face the back side of the reflecting surface that reflects the light emitted from the second laser light source, and the light emitted from the first light source unit and the light emitted from the second light source unit It is a requirement that only light be incident on the rod integrator .

  According to the disclosed technology, it is possible to provide an image projection apparatus with improved heat dissipation while using a plurality of light sources.

FIG. 1 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first modification of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the first embodiment; It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the image projection apparatus concerning the modification 3 of 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which illustrates the image projection apparatus which concerns on the modification 4 of 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 2) which illustrates the image projection apparatus which concerns on the modification 4 of 1st Embodiment. FIG. 18 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment; It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which illustrates the image projection apparatus which concerns on the modification 6 of 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 2) which illustrates the image projection apparatus which concerns on the modification 6 of 1st Embodiment. FIG. 18 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a seventh modification of the first embodiment; It is a perspective view which illustrates the image projection device concerning a 2nd embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective sectional view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second embodiment. It is a sectional view which illustrates the image projection device concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a partial top view (the 1) which illustrates the image projection device concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a partial top view (the 2) which illustrates the image projection device concerning a 2nd embodiment. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first modification of the second embodiment; FIG. 18 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first modification of the second embodiment; FIG. 18 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the second embodiment; It is a top view (the 1) which illustrates the image projection device concerning modification 2 of a 2nd embodiment. It is a top view (the 2) which illustrates the image projection device concerning modification 2 of a 2nd embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

First Embodiment
FIG. 1 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 1, the heat radiating member 15, the reflecting prism 16, the rod integrator 17, the relay lens 18, the image forming panel 19, and the projection lens 20 shown in FIG. 2 are omitted. Further, in FIG. 1, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ are indicated by solid lines for the sake of convenience.

1 and 2, the image projection apparatus 10 includes a plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ , a plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , a support 13, a reflecting portion 14, and a heat dissipating member. A reflecting prism 16, a rod integrator 17, a relay lens 18, an image forming panel 19, and a projection lens 20 are provided. The plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ , the plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , and the reflecting unit 14 are representative examples of the light source device according to the present invention.

The light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ are, for example, lasers such as semiconductor lasers. The color of each emitted light of the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ may be different. The coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ are, for example, convex lenses respectively formed of glass or plastic. Hereinafter, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ may be referred to as a first system light source unit.

  The support 13 is, for example, a member in which a substantially annular side wall 13 b is formed substantially vertically at the periphery of one surface of a flat plate 13 a having a substantially circular planar shape. The support 13 is made of, for example, a metal such as aluminum or a mold resin. The flat plate 13a and the side wall 13b may be integrally formed or separately joined.

On the side wall 13 b of the support 13, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ are arranged in a substantially circumferential shape at substantially equal intervals such that the emission directions are directed to the substantially central portion of the flat plate 13 a of the support 13. . Further, on the side wall 13 b of the support 13, coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ corresponding to the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ are arranged in a substantially circumferential shape at substantially equal intervals. Of the light sources ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 12,} the spacing between adjacent light source can be arbitrarily determined by selecting the size of the support 13, but for example, may be about 10-15 mm.

At a substantially central portion of the flat plate 13 a of the support 13, a reflecting portion 14 in which a plurality of reflecting surfaces for reflecting the light emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ are arranged in a cone shape is provided. In other words, each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14 is provided at a position where each emitted light from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ is incident via the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ respectively. The reflecting portion 14 is formed of, for example, glass, and for example, an aluminum film is vapor-deposited on each reflecting surface. A heat dissipation member 15 is provided on the other surface of the flat plate 13a of the support 13 (the surface on which the side wall 13b is not formed). However, the heat dissipation member 15 may be provided as necessary.

The emitted lights emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ pass through the corresponding coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , respectively, and are turned into substantially parallel, slightly condensed beams. Each emitted light that has passed through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ is reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14 to convert the optical path, and enters the reflection prism 16 (in place of the reflection prism 16, a reflection mirror is used) I do not mind). In addition, the advancing direction of each emitted light reflected by each reflective surface of the reflection part 14 is substantially equal.

  Each outgoing light that has entered the reflecting prism 16 is further converted its optical path by the reflecting prism 16 and enters the rod integrator 17. Then, while total reflection is repeated in the rod integrator 17, color synthesis, equalization of light amount, and the like are performed, and the light is emitted from the rod integrator 17. Each emitted light emitted from the rod integrator 17 is irradiated to the image forming panel 19 by the relay lens 18, and is projected to the external screen (not shown) by the projection lens 20. In the present embodiment, a transmissive type panel in which an image is formed in accordance with a modulation signal is illustrated as the image forming panel 19, but a reflective type panel or a micro mirror device type (DMD) panel is used. May be

  The rod integrator 17 is a representative example of the light amount equalizing means according to the present invention. However, instead of the rod integrator 17, an optical system that condenses incident light using a plurality of lenses may be used as the light amount equalizing means. The relay lens 18 is a typical example of the illumination light transmission optical system according to the present invention. The projection lens 20 is a typical example of a projection optical system according to the present invention.

  The rod integrator 17 also contributes to the simplification of the assembly. For example, due to an installation position error between the light source and the coupling lens, an angle error of mirrors, etc., the output light may deviate from the target position. Although the alignment can be performed by providing the adjusting means in the optical path, the assembly cost increases if the adjusting means is provided because the number of emitted light is large. Therefore, if the size of the entrance of the rod integrator 17 is increased, it is possible to easily take in a plurality of emitted lights without adjustment.

  In addition, when the light quantity uniformity at the outlet of the rod integrator 17 is not sufficient, the light quantity uniformity at the outlet can be improved by arranging the diffusion plate at the inlet of the rod integrator 17. However, it should be noted that the emission angle increases.

  As described above, according to the image projection apparatus according to the first embodiment, since the laser and the coupling lens disposed corresponding to the laser are arranged in a plurality of sets in a circumferential shape, It is possible to widen the distance and suppress thermal interference with each other. Further, if the lasers emitting different colors are disposed adjacent to each other, the thermal interference can be further suppressed. In addition, since the plurality of lasers are fixed to one support, the arrangement of the heat dissipation member (heat sink) is easy, and the wind can easily pass. In addition, since the size of the support can be freely set, a support having a large heat capacity can be realized, and heat can be dissipated to the support.

  Further, since the diameter of the circumference on which the plurality of lasers are disposed can be freely set, the number of lasers can be freely set. In addition, the number of lasers of each color can be set finely. Moreover, since heat radiation is easy, a laser with a large output (power) can be selected.

  In addition, since the incident angle to the rod integrator can be set small and the cross-sectional size of the rod integrator can be reduced, it is possible to suppress the spread of the illumination light of the image forming panel, and projection with a small NA (high F value) A lens can be used. Therefore, design and manufacture of a projection lens become easy, and image performance can be secured easily.

  Also, color synthesis can be performed without using a dichroic mirror (or a dichroic prism).

  That is, it is possible to realize an image projection apparatus that includes a light source device with improved heat dissipation and the light source device while using a plurality of lasers as light sources, and that projects an image in an enlarged manner.

  Note that the image projection apparatus according to the first embodiment exhibits various effects as described above, and the degree of freedom in design is extremely large, so that it can meet various needs. The image projection apparatus according to the first embodiment is applicable to, for example, a projector.

<Modified Example 1 of First Embodiment>
The first modification of the first embodiment shows an example in which a plurality of light sources and a plurality of corresponding coupling lenses are arranged to be inclined with respect to one surface of the flat plate of the support. In the first modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 3, the image projection device 20A differs from the image projection device 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) in that the support 13 is replaced by the support 23.

  The support 23 is, for example, a member in which a substantially annular side wall 23b is formed at the periphery of one surface of a flat plate 23a having a substantially circular planar shape. The support 23 is made of, for example, a metal such as aluminum or a mold resin. The flat plate 23a and the side wall 23b may be formed integrally or separately.

In the support 13, the side wall 13 b is formed substantially vertically on the peripheral edge of one surface of the flat plate 13 a, but in the support 23, the side wall 23 b is formed to be flared at the peripheral edge of one surface of the flat plate 23 a There is. The light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ are emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the emitted light passing through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ is one of the flat plates 23 a of the support 23. The side wall 23b of the support 23 is disposed to be inclined with respect to one surface of the flat plate 23a so as to move in a direction away from the surface.

In the support 23, side walls 23b are formed substantially vertically at the periphery of one surface of the flat plate 23a, and only the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ are on one surface of the flat plate 23a. You may arrange so that it may incline with respect to it.

As described above, the optical axes of the light beams emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and passed through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ do not necessarily have to be parallel to one surface of the flat plate 23a. It may be oblique to one side of 23a. Even with such a configuration, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

<Modification 2 of the First Embodiment>
The second modification of the first embodiment shows an example in which a plurality of light source units are arranged in a plurality of stages. In the second modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 4, the image projection apparatus 30 includes a light source unit of a first system including light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 _{12 on} a support 13, a light source 31 _{1 to} 31 _12, and a cup. An image projection apparatus is characterized in that the light source units of the second system including the ring lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ are arranged in two steps, and the condensing lens 33 is provided on the light path between the reflecting unit 14 and the reflecting prism 16. 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Note that the plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ , the plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ , and the reflecting portion 14 are representative of the light source device according to the present invention. It is an example.

The light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ are, for example, lasers such as semiconductor lasers. The color of each emitted light of the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ may be different. The coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ are, for example, convex lenses respectively formed of glass or plastic. The light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ can be disposed at positions overlapping with the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ in plan view. Also, the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ can be arranged at positions overlapping with the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ in a plan view.

The light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ are emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the emitted light passing through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ is one of the flat plates 13 a of the support 13. The side wall 13b of the support 13 is disposed to be inclined with respect to one surface of the flat plate 13a so as to move in a direction away from the surface.

On the other hand, the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ are emitted from the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 _12, and the emitted light passing through the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ is of the flat plate 13 a of the support 13. The side wall 13b of the support 13 is disposed to be inclined with respect to one surface of the flat plate 13a so as to move in a direction approaching one surface.

Thus, the light beams emitted from the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , and the light beams emitted from the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ , respectively, pass through the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 _12. The incident light can be incident on each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14.

Each emitted light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14 is incident on the reflection prism 16 via the condenser lens 33, and as in the first embodiment, the rod integrator 17, the relay lens 18, the image The light is projected onto an external screen (not shown) via the forming panel 19 and the projection lens 20. In addition, since the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the light sources 31 _{1 to 3 12 12} are provided to be inclined with respect to one surface of the flat plate 13 a, each emitted light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14 is There is a possibility that the incident angle when entering the rod integrator 17 via the reflecting prism 16 may be increased. Therefore, a condenser lens 33 is provided to reduce the incident angle when each emitted light enters the rod integrator 17. Therefore, when the desired incident angle can be secured, the condenser lens 33 may not be provided.

In FIG. 4, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ are arranged in two stages at overlapping positions in plan view, and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32. An example is shown in which the ₁₂ and ₁₂ are arranged in two stages at overlapping positions in plan view. However, they may be arranged as shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a partial plan view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the first embodiment. In FIG. 5, the heat radiating member 15, the reflecting prism 16, the rod integrator 17, the relay lens 18, the image forming panel 19, the projection lens 20, and the condensing lens 33 shown in FIG. 4 are omitted. Further, in FIG. 5, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , and the light sources 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ are indicated by solid lines for convenience.

Referring to FIG. 5, in the image projection device 30A, the light source units of the first system and the light source units of the second system are arranged in two stages as in the image projection device 30, but Differently, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ and the light sources 31 _{1 to 3 1 12} are arranged alternately (at positions alternately) in plan view. Further, the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ and the coupling lenses 32 _{1 to} 32 ₁₂ are arranged alternately (at positions alternately) in a plan view.

Thus, (to become a staggered position) alternately in the light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 12} and the light source ₃₁ 1 _{to 31 12} and the plan view by placing a light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 12} and the light source ₃₁ 1 _{to 31 12} The mutual thermal interference of can be further suppressed.

  Although the light source units of the first system and the light source units of the second system are arranged in two stages in FIGS. 4 and 5, the light source units of three or more systems may be arranged in three or more stages. Further, the number of light sources and coupling lenses included in each system is not necessarily the same, and the number of light sources and coupling lenses may be different for each system.

  As described above, in the second modification of the first embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, but further, the following effect can be obtained. That is, by arranging the light source units of a plurality of systems in a plurality of stages and combining the emitted lights, it is possible to secure a larger amount of light than in the first embodiment.

Modification 3 of the First Embodiment
The third modification of the first embodiment shows an example in which each emitted light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection section is directly led to the rod integrator. In the third modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a third modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, the image projection device 40 differs from the image projection device 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) in that the reflecting prism 16 is eliminated.

  As described above, without providing the reflection prism 16, each emitted light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection unit 14 may be directly guided to the rod integrator 17. Even with such a configuration, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

<Modified Example 4 of First Embodiment>
The fourth modification of the first embodiment shows an example in which a plurality of systems of light source units are disposed to face each other. In the fourth modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view (No. 1) illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 7, in the image projection apparatus 50, two sets of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ , coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₂ , a support 13, a reflecting portion 14, and a heat dissipation member 15 constitute a heat dissipation member 15. They are arranged to face each other in the outward direction. Each emitted light reflected by each reflection surface of each set of reflection portions 14 is incident on the reflection prism 16 provided in each of them, the light path is changed by the reflection prism 16, and the light is incident on the rod integrator 17. Then, as in the first embodiment, the light is projected onto an external screen (not shown) via the relay lens 18, the image forming panel 19 and the projection lens 20.

  Also, it may be as shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic view (part 2) illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view including the optical axis of the projection lens 20 and passing through the two reflecting portions 14 . Referring to FIG. 8, the image projection apparatus 50A is different from the image projection apparatus 50 (see FIG. 7) in that color synthesis is performed using a dichroic prism 56. The dichroic prism 56 is an optical element that combines lights such as R (red), G green), B (blue), etc., which are incident from different directions, in one direction, for example.

  In FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the outgoing lights entering the rod integrator 17 are aligned so as to be in substantially the same direction, but taking the outgoing light into the rod integrator 17 or in the same direction Since uniformization may be difficult, each emitted light may be slightly shifted from one another.

  As described above, in the fourth modification of the first embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained, but the following effects can be further obtained. That is, by arranging the light source units of a plurality of systems to face each other and combining the emitted lights, it is possible to secure a larger amount of light than in the first embodiment.

<Modification 5 of the First Embodiment>
The fifth modification of the first embodiment shows an example using a tapered rod integrator. In the fifth modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9, the image projection apparatus 60 is different from the image projection apparatus 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) in that the rod integrator 17 is replaced by a tapered rod integrator 67. The tapered rod integrator 67 is a representative example of the light amount equalizing means according to the present invention.

  As described above, in the fifth modification of the first embodiment, although the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, the following effect can be further obtained. That is, by using the tapered rod integrator, it is possible to increase the intake and stirrability of each emitted light to the rod integrator.

Modification 6 of the First Embodiment
The sixth modification of the first embodiment shows an example of reducing the speckle (spot pattern) generated by the interference of each emitted light. In the sixth modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic view (No. 1) illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the sixth modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 10, the image projection device 70 differs from the image projection device 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) in that a diffusion plate 71 and a motor 72 are added.

  The diffusion plate 71 has, for example, a disk shape, and its central portion is axially supported by the motor 72 and rotationally driven. The diffusion plate 71 is disposed such that the outer peripheral side thereof is substantially orthogonal to the emitted light traveling from the reflecting portion 14 to the reflecting prism 16. As the diffusion plate 71, for example, a sliding glass, an opal glass, a diffractive optical element, a hologram element or the like can be used. The diffusion plate 71 and the motor 72 are representative examples of the diffusion means according to the present invention.

  Also, it may be as shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a schematic view (part 2) illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the sixth modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, an image projection device 70A (see FIG. 10) has a point in which the diffusion plate 71 is disposed so as to be substantially orthogonal to each outgoing light traveling from the reflection prism 16 to the rod integrator 17. It is different.

  As described above, in the sixth modification of the first embodiment, although the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, the following effect can be further obtained. That is, by arranging and rotating the diffusion plate on the light path of the image projection apparatus so as to be substantially orthogonal to each emitted light, each emitted light is diffused by the diffusion plate, thereby reducing speckle (spot pattern) can do.

<Modification 7 of the First Embodiment>
The seventh modification of the first embodiment shows another example of reducing the speckle (spot pattern) generated by the interference of each emitted light. In the seventh modification of the first embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described will be omitted.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the seventh modification of the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12, the image projection apparatus 80 differs from the image projection apparatus 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) in that a reflection unit driving unit 81 is added.

  The reflection part drive means 81 is a drive part for rotating or vibrating (rocking) the reflection part 14. The reflection part driving means 81 has a function of rotating the reflection part 14 about an axis substantially perpendicular to the flat plate 13 a of the support 13. Alternatively, the reflection part driving means 81 has a function of vibrating (rocking) the reflection part 14 in a direction substantially parallel to the flat plate 13 a of the support 13. The reflection part drive means 81 can be realized by a known means using a motor, a gear, a cam or the like. The reflective portion 14 and the reflective portion drive means 81 are representative examples of the diffusion means according to the present invention.

Although it is not necessary to add an optical component especially in the case of minute vibration or shaking, in the case of large movement (for example, in the case of displacement of several mm) or rotation, in order to secure the light quantity, It is preferable to take measures such as adding a condenser lens on the optical path between the light source 14 and the reflecting prism 16. When there is a sufficient amount of light, by synchronizing the movement of the reflection unit 14 and the light emission of the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₂ , the addition of an optical component becomes unnecessary.

  As described above, in the seventh modification of the first embodiment, although the same effect as that of the first embodiment is exhibited, the following effect is further achieved. That is, each emitted light is diffused in the reflection part by rotating or vibrating (rocking) the reflection part, so that speckles can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to avoid the installation of parts for speckle prevention such as a diffusion plate.

Second Embodiment
In the second embodiment, an example in which a plurality of light sources are arranged with the optical axis directed in the thickness direction of the support is shown. In the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiments already described is omitted.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective sectional view illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a partial plan view (part 1) illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the second embodiment, and is a plan view without the heat dissipation member 96 and the axial flow fan 97. FIG. 17 is a partial plan view (part 2) illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the second embodiment, and is a plan view without the axial flow fan 97. FIG. FIG. 14 shows a cross section cut at the longitudinal center of the fins 96 c of the heat dissipation member 96, and FIG. 14 shows a cross section cut between the adjacent fins 96 c.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, the image projecting device 90, a plurality of light sources ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24,} a plurality of coupling lenses ₁₂ 1 _{to 12 24} and (partially shown), a support 93, reflector It has a mirror 94, a reflection mirror 95, a heat radiation member 96, an axial fan 97, a rod integrator 17, a relay lens 18, an image forming panel 19, and a projection lens 20.

The optical system after the rod integrator 17 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the illustration is omitted in FIGS. 13 to 17. The plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ , the plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ , and the reflecting portion 93 c are representative examples of the light source device according to the present invention.

Light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24,} for example, a laser of each such semiconductor laser. The color of each emitted light of the light sources 11 ₁ to _{1 1 24} may be different. The coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ are, for example, convex lenses respectively formed of glass or plastic. Hereinafter, the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ may be referred to as a first system light source unit.

  The support 93 includes, for example, a flat plate 93 a having a substantially circular planar shape, a plurality of through holes 93 b, a reflective portion 93 c, and an inclined portion 93 d. The support 93 is formed of, for example, a metal such as aluminum or magnesium, a mold resin, or the like. At the outer edge of the flat plate 93a, a plurality of through holes 93b penetrating the flat plate 93a in the thickness direction are provided in a substantially circumferential shape in plan view at substantially equal intervals.

Each through hole 93 b, the light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24} and out of the coupling lens ₁₂ 1 _{to 12 24,} a pair of light source and the coupling lens, the thickness direction of the support 93 to the optical axis (emission direction) ( A plurality of through holes 93 b are inserted and fixed in a direction substantially parallel to a central axis 93 x of a circle formed by the through holes 93 b. Of the light sources ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24,} the spacing between adjacent light source can be arbitrarily determined by selecting the size of the support 93, but for example, may be about 10-15 mm.

The reflection mirror 94 is provided in the one end side (side from which light is radiate | emitted) of each through-hole 93b, respectively. That is, one reflection mirror 94 is provided for one light source. The reflection mirror 94 is fixed to, for example, an inclined portion 93 d formed on the outer edge of one surface of the support 93 by adhesion, a plate spring or the like. The inclination angle of each of the reflection mirrors 94 with respect to the optical axis of the light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ can be, for example, 45 degrees. The reflection mirror 94 is formed of, for example, glass, and for example, an aluminum film is vapor-deposited on each reflection surface.

At approximately the center of one surface (the lower surface in FIG. 15) of the flat plate 93a, a reflecting portion 93c in which reflecting surfaces for the number of light sources are arranged in a cone shape is provided. In other words, each reflecting surface of the reflecting portion 93c is provided at a position where the light emitted from the light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24} is incident via the coupling lens ₁₂ 1 _{to 12 24} and the mirror 24, respectively . Inclination angle with respect to the optical axis of the light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24} of each reflecting surface of the reflecting portion 93c, for example, can be 30 degrees.

  The reflecting portion 93c can be formed, for example, by fixing a member similar to the reflecting mirror 94 to the inclined surface provided substantially at the center of one surface of the flat plate 93a by adhesion, a plate spring or the like. Alternatively, in the case where the support 93 is a metal, the reflecting portion 93c may be formed by finishing an inclined surface provided substantially at the center of one surface of the flat plate 93a into a mirror surface.

Each light emitted from the light source ₁₁ 1 _{to 11 24} are each passed through the corresponding coupling lenses ₁₂ 1 _{to 12 24,} are substantially parallel to the beam of slightly focusing feeling. Each emitted light having passed through the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ is reflected by each reflection mirror 94 to convert the light path approximately 90 degrees, and travels in the central direction of the circle (direction of the central axis 93 x). It injects into each reflective surface.

  Then, the light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection portion 93c is reflected so as to have a slight inclination with respect to the central axis 93x and enters the reflection mirror 95 (in place of the reflection mirror 95, a reflection prism is used) I do not mind). The reflection mirror 95 can be formed of the same member as the reflection mirror 94. The angles of the reflecting surfaces of the reflecting portion 93 c are set such that the reflected light of the reflecting mirror 95 is collected at one place at the incident portion of the rod integrator 17.

  The reflection mirror 95 guides the entire light reflected by each reflection surface of the reflection portion 93 c in the horizontal direction, and contributes to thinning of the image projection device 90. However, in the case where the image projection apparatus may be thick, the reflection mirror 95 may not be provided as in the third modification of the first embodiment. The optical paths after the rod integrator 17 are the same as in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  A heat dissipation member 96 is provided on the other surface of the flat plate 93 a of the support 93 (the side on which the reflection portion 93 c is not formed), and an axial fan 97 is provided on the heat dissipation member 96. However, the heat radiating member 96 and the axial flow fan 97 may be provided as needed. The rotating blades of the axial fan 97 are not shown.

  The heat dissipation member 96 is a member having a substantially circular planar shape (outer shape) having a flat surface 96 a, a guide surface 96 b, and a plurality of fins 96 c. As a material of the heat dissipation member 96, for example, copper, aluminum or the like excellent in thermal conductivity can be used. Since there is no vent at the center of the axial fan 97, the heat dissipating member 96 is also shaped accordingly. That is, a flat surface 96a having a substantially circular planar shape is formed at the central portion of the heat dissipation member 96, and the central portion of the axial flow fan 97 is fixed to the flat surface 96a.

  The peripheral portion of the flat surface 96 a is inclined downward toward the outer peripheral direction of the heat dissipation member 96 to form a guide surface 96 b. The guide surface 96 b has a function of guiding the wind from the axial fan 97 in the outer circumferential direction. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the guide surface 96b is a curve, but the same effect can be obtained even if the cross-sectional shape of the guide surface 96b is a straight line. That is, the guide surface 96b may be a conical surface.

  A plurality of fins 96c are provided radially at substantially equal intervals at portions other than the inner peripheral side of the guide surface 96b. In the plan view, the fins 96 c are alternately arranged at positions crossing the light sources and between the light sources. For the fins 96c disposed at positions crossing each light source, openings are provided in the portions overlapping with the respective light sources. The end face of each fin 96c opposite to the support 93 is substantially flush with the flat surface 96a.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 17, although the fin 96c is arrange | positioned completely radial, it is not limited to this. For example, the fins 96c may be arranged diagonally in the plane of FIG. 17 with respect to the state of FIG. The planar shape of each fin 96c is linear, but the planar shape of each fin 96c may be curved. In short, optimization may be performed in accordance with the flow of wind from the axial fan 97.

  As described above, according to the image projection apparatus of the second embodiment, the laser and the coupling lens disposed corresponding to the laser are arranged in the thickness direction of the support (each light axis (emission direction) A plurality of sets are circumferentially arranged in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the annular ring in which the light source and the like are disposed. Therefore, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

  That is, in the case of the first embodiment, when the support is manufactured with a mold, since the drawing direction is in multiple directions, one-shot molding is difficult. On the other hand, in the case of the second embodiment, when the support is manufactured with a mold, since the direction of extraction is one direction, one-shot molding becomes easy, and the processing cost of the support can be reduced.

  In addition, extremely efficient cooling can be achieved by disposing a heat dissipating member having a guide surface and fins that are shaped against wind flow on the support.

  In the present application, the thickness direction of the support does not indicate only the direction completely perpendicular to the surface of the support in contact with the heat dissipation member. The direction inclined with respect to the completely perpendicular direction is also included in the thickness direction of the support within a range not impairing the predetermined effect of the present application.

<Modified Example 1 of Second Embodiment>
The first modification of the second embodiment shows an example in which a plurality of light source units are arranged concentrically. In the first modification of the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a partial plan view illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the first modification of the second embodiment, and is a plan view without the heat dissipation member 106 and the axial flow fan 107.

18 and 19, the image projection apparatus 100 includes a plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ , a plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ (only a part of which is shown), a support 103, and reflections. It has a mirror 104, a reflection mirror 95, a heat radiating member 106, an axial flow fan 107, a rod integrator 17, a relay lens 18, an image forming panel 19, and a projection lens 20.

The optical system after the rod integrator 17 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore the illustration is omitted in FIGS. 18 and 19. The plurality of light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ , the plurality of coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ , and the reflecting portion 103 c are representative examples of the light source device according to the present invention.

In the first modification of the second embodiment, the support 103 includes a first system light source unit including light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₆ and coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₆ , a light source 11 _{17 to} 11 _24, and a coupling. A second system light source unit including lenses 12 _{17 to} 12 ₂₄ is provided concentrically in a plan view. The light sources 11 _{1 to} 11 ₁₆ and the coupling lenses 12 _{1 to} 12 ₁₆ constitute an outer ring (outer circle) centered on the central axis 103 x, and the light sources 11 _{17 to} 11 ₂₄ and the coupling lenses 12 ₁₇ to _{24 24} Constitute an inner annular ring (inner circle) centered on the central axis 103x.

  Similarly to the support 93, the support 103 includes, for example, a flat plate 103a having a substantially circular planar shape, a plurality of through holes 103b, a reflective portion 103c, and an inclined portion 103d. Descriptions of portions of the flat plate 103a, the through hole 103b, the reflecting portion 103c, and the inclined portion 103d that function in the same manner as the flat plate 93a, the through hole 93b, the reflecting portion 93c, and the inclined portion 93d are omitted. Do.

  The through hole 103 b, the reflecting portion 103 c, and the reflecting mirror 104 are respectively provided in a double concentric manner in plan view corresponding to the arrangement of the light sources. In the image projection apparatus 100, since the light sources of the same number as the image projection apparatus 90 are provided concentrically in plan view, the diameter of the support 103 is smaller than that of the support 93 in plan view.

  A heat dissipation member 106 is provided on the other surface of the flat plate 103 a of the support 103 (the side on which the reflective portion 103 c is not formed), and an axial fan 107 is provided on the heat dissipation member 106. However, the heat radiating member 106 and the axial flow fan 107 may be provided as needed. The rotating blade portion of the axial flow fan 107 is not shown.

  Similar to the heat dissipating member 96, the heat dissipating member 106 is a member having a substantially circular planar shape (outer shape) having a flat surface 106a, a guide surface 106b, and a plurality of fins 106c. The heat radiating member 106 is configured in the same manner as the heat radiating member 96 except that the diameter of the heat radiating member 106 is smaller than that of the heat radiating member 96 in plan view, corresponding to the support body 103. The axial flow fan 107 is configured in the same manner as the axial flow fan 97 except that the axial flow fan 107 is smaller in diameter in plan view than the axial flow fan 97 corresponding to the support 103.

  If the number of light sources is the same for the inner circle and the outer circle, the reflector 103c can be made common. In addition, by arranging the light sources of the inner circle part and the light sources of the outer circle part in a zigzag, the difference between the diameter of the inner circle and the diameter of the outer circle can be reduced, which is preferable. In the example of FIG. 18, the light source of the inner circle and the light source of the outer circle are arranged on the same plane, but in order to make the optical path length of each light source constant, the light source of the inner circle and the outer circle The light source may be arranged to have a step.

  As described above, according to the image projection apparatus according to the first modification of the second embodiment, the light source units of a plurality of systems are arranged concentrically. Therefore, in addition to the effects of the second embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

  That is, when the same number of light sources and the like are arranged, the diameter of the support can be smaller than in the second embodiment, and the light source device and the image projection device can be miniaturized.

Modified Example 2 of Second Embodiment
The second modification of the second embodiment shows an example using a heat dissipating member and a fan different from those of the second embodiment. In the second modification of the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those of the embodiment already described is omitted.

  FIG. 20 is a partial plan view illustrating the image projection apparatus according to the second modification of the second embodiment, and is a plan view in a state in which the heat dissipation member 116 and the sirocco fan 117 are not present. FIG. 21 is a plan view (part 1) illustrating an image projection apparatus according to a second modification of the second embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, in the image projection apparatus 110, the support 113 has a shape in which a part of the support 93 shown in FIG. The light source, the coupling lens, and the like are arranged circumferentially (a part of a circumferential shape) only in the portion where the support 113 is present. In other words, the light sources 11 _{4 to} 11 ₁₀ shown in FIG. 16 and the corresponding coupling lenses and reflection mirrors are not disposed.

  The heat dissipation member 116 is disposed on the support 113. In the heat dissipation member 116, substantially concentric flow paths 116b, 116c, 116d, and 116e are provided in a part of the circular plate 116a which is partially cut in a fan shape. The number of channels, the width of each channel, and the like can be arbitrarily determined. Although not shown, a lid having the same shape as, for example, the disk 116a is provided on the top of the disk 116a, and the channels 116b, 116c, 116d, and 116e are tunnel-shaped channels and the like. It has become.

  The sirocco fan 117 is provided on one end side of the tunnel-like flow paths 116b, 116c, 116d, and 116e. The air sent from the sirocco fan 117 flows along the flow paths 116b, 116c, 116d and 116e while removing the heat generated by each light source, and is discharged to the outside from the other end of the flow paths 116b, 116c, 116d and 116e. Be done.

  The heat radiating member 116 shown in FIG. 21 may be replaced with the heat radiating member 126 shown in FIG. In the heat radiating member 126, substantially concentric flow paths 126b, 126c, and 126d are provided in a part of the disc 126a which is partially cut in a fan-like shape, and the flow is provided at a plurality of locations in the radial direction of the disc 126a. The channels 126e communicate with each other. In order to improve the flow of the wind from the sirocco fan 117, the flow paths 126b and 126c may be formed slightly off concentric circles. The number of channels, the width of each channel, and the like can be arbitrarily determined.

  Although not shown, a lid having the same shape as, for example, the disk 126a is provided on the upper portion of the disk 126a, and the channels 126b, 126c, 126d, and 126e are tunnel-shaped channels and the like. It has become.

  Thus, the shape and type of the heat dissipating member and the fan disposed on the support can be arbitrarily determined. In addition, it is also possible to change the shape of the support in accordance with the shape of the heat dissipation member.

  As mentioned above, although a preferred embodiment and its modification were explained in full detail, it is not restricted to the embodiment and its modification which were mentioned above, and does not deviate from the range described in the claim, and the implementation mentioned above Various modifications and substitutions can be made to the embodiment of the present invention and its modifications.

  For example, in each embodiment and its modification, an optical system using a transmissive panel is shown at the rear of the rod integrator, but the optical system using a transmissive panel is not limited to the rear after the rod integrator, It can be replaced by various optical systems used in the projector.

  Further, in each embodiment and its modification, the number of light sources, the degree of parallelization in the coupling lens, the degree of same orientation in the reflection part, the distance between each optical element, the size and angle of the rod integrator, etc. Can be set as appropriate.

  The second embodiment and the first and second modifications thereof can be modified in the same manner as each modification of the first embodiment.

10, 20A, 30, 30A, 40, 50, 50A, 60, 70, 70A, 80, 90, 100, 110 image projection devices 11 _{1 to} 11 ₂₄ , 31 _{1 to} 31 ₁₂ light sources 12 _{1 to} 12 ₂₄ , 32 ₁ -32 ₁₂ Coupling lens 13, 23, 93, 103, 113 Support 13a, 23a, 93a, 103a Flat plate 13b, 23b Side wall 14, 93c, 103c Reflector 15, 96, 106, 116, 126 Heat dissipation member 16 Reflective prism Reference Signs List 17 rod integrator 18 relay lens 19 image forming panel 20 projection lens 33 condensing lens 56 dichroic prism 67 taper rod integrator 71 diffusion plate 72 motor 81 reflection unit driving means 93 b 103 b through hole 93 d 103 d inclined portion 93 x 103 x central axis 94 , 9 Reflection mirrors 96a, 106a flat surface 96b, 106b guide surface 96c, 106c fins 97,107 axial fan 116a, 126a disc 116b, 116c, 116d, 116e, 126b, 126c, 126d, 126e passage 117 sirocco fan

Patent No. 4055809 Patent No. 4477571

Claims (8)

A first light source unit comprising a first laser light source for emitting light of a predetermined color;
A second light source unit provided with a second laser light source disposed to face the first light source unit and emitting light of the same color as the light of the predetermined color;
A rod integrator that internally reflects the light emitted from the first laser light source and the light emitted from the second laser light source, and emits the reflected light;
A first reflecting member disposed on an optical path between the first laser light source and the rod integrator, and reflecting the light emitted from the first laser light source;
A second reflecting member disposed on an optical path between the second laser light source and the rod integrator, the second reflecting member reflecting the light emitted from the second laser light source;
An image forming unit that forms an image using the reflected light emitted from the rod integrator;
A projection lens for projecting an image formed on the image forming unit;
The back side of the reflecting surface that reflects the light emitted from the first laser light source of the first reflecting member, and the back side of the reflecting surface that reflects the light emitted from the second laser light source of the second reflecting member Are arranged to face each other ,
An image projection apparatus, wherein only the light emitted from the first light source unit and the light emitted from the second light source unit enter the rod integrator . The first laser light source is provided on a first support,
The image projection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second laser light source is provided on a second support. The first support is provided with a plurality of laser light sources including the first laser light source,
The image projection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second support is provided with a plurality of laser light sources including the second laser light source. The first light source unit includes a plurality of laser light sources including the first laser light source,
The image projection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second light source unit includes a plurality of laser light sources including the second laser light source.   The reflection surface of the first reflection member and the reflection surface of the second reflection member are incident directions of light emitted from the second laser light source to the second reflection member and the second reflection member, and The image projection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it does not intersect when viewed from a direction perpendicular to a plane including the reflection direction.   The reflection position of the light radiate | emitted from the said 1st laser light source in a said 1st reflection member is a back side of the reflective surface of a said 2nd reflection member, The any one of the Claims 1 thru | or 5 characterized by the above-mentioned. The image projection apparatus according to claim 1. The image projection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein a diffusion plate is disposed at an inlet of the rod integrator. The first laser light source includes an optical axis of the projection lens and a plane passing through the first reflecting member, and includes an optical axis of the projection lens from one side and passes through the first reflecting member Emitting light of the predetermined color towards
The second laser light source includes an optical axis of the projection lens and a plane including the optical axis of the projection lens from the other side with respect to a plane passing through the first reflecting member. The image projection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein light of the same color as the light of the predetermined color is emitted toward the light source.

Images