JP7559399B2 - Image Projection Device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image projection device.

In recent years, there has been a demand for so-called handheld image projection devices, which are devices that an operator holds in his or her hand to project images. Examples of use cases where such devices would be effective include product explanations and image projection, where images are appropriately projected during an explanation to deepen the listener's understanding.

In such handheld image projection devices, if the device is tilted during projection, the projected image will also be tilted. Patent Document 1 describes a configuration that detects the tilt of the housing and performs image correction, addressing the issue that it is difficult to hold the device accurately horizontally when projecting while holding the image projection device in your hand.

However, in the conventional handheld image projection device described in Patent Document 1 and elsewhere, no consideration has been given to ease of use when operating the projection.

The present invention aims to improve the operability of an image projection device.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an image projection device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside, a main body that houses the projection unit, an operation unit that is arranged on the surface of the main body, and a control unit that controls the operation of the projection unit, wherein the operation unit switches between a projection state and a non-projection state of the projection unit in response to operation input while maintaining an activated state of the control unit, the projection unit has a light-emitting unit that is turned on and off in response to operation input of the operation unit, the switch is installed so that the angle between the direction of the center of the optical axis of the light and the direction in which the switch is pressed is not 90 degrees , and the projection direction of the projection unit faces downward below the horizontal when the main body is placed on a horizontal surface .

The operability of the image projection device can be improved.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an image projection device according to a first embodiment, as viewed from the z-positive side; FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an image projection device according to a first embodiment, as viewed from the negative z direction; FIG. 1 is a side view of an image projection device according to a first embodiment, as viewed from the y negative direction. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the image projection device shown in FIG. Block diagram of an image projection device Block diagram of a modified example of an image projection device A diagram showing the relationship between the direction of the switch and the direction of the optical axis center line of the projection unit. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a usage state of an image projection device; FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state in which the image projection device of the first embodiment is placed on a flat surface; Diagram showing the relative positions of the switch and the bottom of the unit FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first configuration in which a partition member is arranged. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second configuration in which a partition member is arranged. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third configuration in which a partition member is arranged. FIG. 1 shows a first configuration in which the main body is provided with holes for internal cooling. FIG. 2 shows a second configuration in which the main body is provided with holes for internal cooling. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an image projection device according to a second embodiment, as viewed from the z-positive side. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an image projection device according to a second embodiment, as viewed from the negative z direction. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III in FIG. IV-IV cross-sectional view in FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a usage state of an image projection device; Exploded perspective view of an image projection device Block diagram of an image projection device FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an image projection device according to a third embodiment, as viewed from the z-positive side. Block diagram of a first configuration for controlling the projection image output Block diagram of a second configuration of the projection image output control Block diagram of a third configuration of the projection image output control Keystone distortion correction process flowchart Switching flow of video input signals in the fourth embodiment FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a priority setting screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first example of a priority setting screen. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second example of a priority setting screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a mode switching method in the fifth embodiment. Flowchart of mode switching process in the fifth embodiment 13 is a side cross-sectional view of an image projection device according to a modification of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a first stage of a switch pressing operation; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a second stage of the switch pressing operation;

The following describes the embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. To facilitate understanding of the description, the same components in each drawing are denoted by the same reference numerals as much as possible, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

In the following description, the x, y, and z directions are perpendicular to each other. The x direction is the projection direction of the image projection device 1. The y direction is the left-right direction of the projected image of the image projection device 1, and is typically the horizontal direction. The z direction is the up-down direction of the projected image of the image projection device 1, and is typically the vertical direction.

[First embodiment]
The first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 15. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an image projection device 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the z positive direction side. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an image projection device 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the z negative direction side. Fig. 3 is a side view of an image projection device 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the y negative direction side. Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the image projection device 1 shown in Fig. 1, and a longitudinal cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the image projection device 1.

The image projection device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 4 is a so-called handheld image projection device that can be held by an operator in one hand to project an image.

The image projection device 1 comprises a main body 2, a projection unit 3, and a switch 4 (operation unit). The main body 2 is formed in a shape that can be held in one hand. The projection unit 3 projects an image by irradiating light to the outside. This light is called projected light, and this image is called a projected image. The switch 4 switches the projection unit 3 between a projection state and a non-projection state in response to an operation input. The main body 2 is hollow, and the projection unit 3 and other parts are housed inside the main body 2.

The switch 4 is disposed on the surface of the main body 2. The switch 4 is an element for inputting operations such as pressing by physically contacting it with a finger or the like, and in the following description, the switch 4 may also be referred to as the "operation unit 4." In other words, the switch 4 accepts operations by the operator. The switch 4 is also connected to a switching unit 18 (see FIG. 5, etc.) provided on an electric circuit. The switching unit 18 operates in response to a user operation input to the switch 4, switching between energization and de-energization of the line 14 (see FIG. 5) on the electric circuit, thereby switching between the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3. The operation unit 4 and the switching unit 18 may be configured to be integrally formed as a single switch component, or may be configured to be disposed separately and electrically connected.

Note that the user operation input to the operation unit 4 includes, for example, a pressing operation. A pressing operation includes an operation of pressing a button, an operation of pressing and sliding, an operation of touching a touch panel, etc., and also includes an operation in which the operator recognizes that he or she has pressed the operation unit 4.

By operating the switch 4, it becomes possible to irradiate light L from the projection unit 3 at the timing desired by the operator, and it is also possible to stop the irradiation of light L.

The projection unit 3 is installed on the protruding portion 2D at the tip of the x-positive direction of the main body 2 so that the projection direction is along the longitudinal direction (x-direction) of the main body 2. The protruding portion 2D is formed to protrude from the end portion 2A on the x-positive side of the main body 2 to the side where the projection unit 3 projects the screen, i.e., the x-positive side. The protruding portion 2D is formed integrally with the main body 2, and the internal space is connected. The projection unit 3 also includes a lens portion 3A, and is installed so that the lens portion 3A is exposed from an opening 2C provided at the tip of the protruding portion 2D in the x-positive direction, and is installed on the main body 2 so that the up-down direction of the image projected from the lens portion 3A is along the z-direction and the left-right direction of the image is along the y-direction. The projection unit 3 also includes a focus adjustment dial, which may be exposed to the outside from an opening provided in a part of the protruding portion 2D. In this case, the operator can adjust the focus of the projected image by operating the focus adjustment dial.

Next, the internal structure of the image projection device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the image projection device 1 includes the above-mentioned projection unit 3 housed inside the protrusion 2D, a control board 6A (control unit) housed inside the main body 2, a control board 6B (communication unit), and a battery 7 (power source).

The control board 6A controls the operation of the projection unit 3. The control board 6A can be physically configured as a computer system in which a CPU, RAM, ROM, storage device, interface, etc. are connected via a bus. The various functions of the control board 6A are realized by loading specific computer software onto hardware such as the CPU and RAM, reading and writing data from and to the RAM and storage device under the control of the CPU, and operating other components such as the projection unit 3 and external devices via the interface. The control board 6B performs wireless communication such as wifi (registered trademark) and connects to external devices.

The battery 7 is a plate-shaped secondary battery that supplies power to the projection unit 3 and the control boards 6A and 6B.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a group of buttons 11 is provided on the surface on the z positive side of the main body 2. The group of buttons 11 includes a number of buttons for operating various functions of the projection device, such as the main power supply. Connectors 13, such as a USB connector and an HDMI (registered trademark), are arranged so as to be exposed in an opening 2E on the x negative side of the main body 2, and are configured to be able to be wired and connected to various external devices. The connectors 13 are installed, for example, on a control board 6A.

Figure 5 is a block diagram of the image projection device 1. As shown in Figure 5, the projection unit 3 has a light-emitting unit 31 and a display device 32. The light-emitting unit 31 has LEDs 31R, 31G, and 31B. The LEDs 31R, 31G, and 31B are light sources of red (R), green (G), and blue (B), respectively. The display device 32 is an image forming unit that forms a projection image through the light output from the light-emitting unit 31 and outputs it to the outside. In this embodiment, a DLP (Digital Light Processing) is used as the display device 32. In the following description, the "display device 32" may also be written as "DLP 32". Note that the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32 may be replaced with other elements that can perform their respective functions. In other words, although an LED is used as the light-emitting unit 31, a halogen lamp or the like may also be used. Furthermore, although a DLP is used as the display device, a liquid crystal display device may also be used.

5, the information transmission system of the image projection device 1 is shown by a solid line, the power supply system is shown by a thick solid line, and the optical system is shown by a dotted line. As shown in FIG. 5, the information transmission system of the image projection device 1 outputs a control signal from the control board 6A to the light-emitting unit 31 and the display device 32 (DLP) of the projection unit 3. In addition, in the power supply system of the image projection device 1, power is first supplied from the battery 7 to the control board 6A, and then power is supplied from the control board 6A to the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32 of the projection unit 3 via the wiring 14. In particular, in this embodiment, a switching unit 18 is disposed on the wiring 14 between the control board 6A and the projection unit 3. The switching unit 18 can be switched between an on state and an off state by an operation input of the switch 4 as an operation unit. FIG. 5 shows the switching unit 18 in an off state.

When the switching unit 18 is in the ON state, it supplies power to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3, and when it is in the OFF state, it stops the power supply to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3. Meanwhile, regardless of whether the switching unit 18 is ON or OFF, power is always supplied to the control board 6A from the battery 7. This allows the switching unit 18 to switch between the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3, i.e., between turning on/off the light-emitting unit 31 and operating/stopping the DLP 32, in response to an operation input to the operation unit 4, while maintaining the activated state of the control board 6A.

In this way, the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3 can be switched in response to switching between the on and off states of the switching unit 18 in response to the operation of the switch 4 (operation unit 4) by the operator. Therefore, the image projection device 1 of this embodiment can be appropriately switched to a non-projection state when image projection is not necessary even during operation, thereby reducing power consumption, extending the life of the projection unit 3, and reducing heat generation. In addition, since the control board 6A is maintained in an activated state even when the projection unit 3 is in a non-projection state, the projection unit 3 can start up more quickly when switching back to the projection state, compared to a configuration in which both the projection unit 3 and the control board 6A are stopped, such as in a conventional standby mode. This makes it possible to project images in a timely manner in response to the operator's switch operation, improving the operability of the device.

The switch 4 is a push button type switch. Therefore, while the operator is pressing the switch 4 (i.e., while the operation unit 4 is being pressed), the projection unit 3 is in a projection state (the light-emitting unit 31 is on and the DLP 32 is in an operating state), and when the operator's hand leaves the switch 4 (i.e., when the operation unit 4 is not being pressed), the projection unit 3 is in a non-projection state (the light-emitting unit 31 is off and the DLP 32 is in a stopped state). This allows the timing when the operator wants to project an image to coincide with the timing when the switch 4 is pressed, providing the operator with a more intuitive feeling of operation using a so-called momentary switch. Also, the switch 4 is a button for the operator to switch between projection and non-projection, and can also be called a projection button.

In the example of FIG. 5, the switching unit 18 switches between the presence and absence of power supply from the control board 6A to both the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32, but the switching unit 18 may be disposed at a position on the wiring 14 where it can switch between the presence and absence of power supply to only one of the light-emitting unit 31 or the DLP 32. It is sufficient for the switching unit 18 to be able to switch between at least a projection state in which an image is projected from the projection unit 3 to the outside, and a non-projection state in which an image is not projected from the projection unit 3 to the outside.

Figure 6 is a block diagram of a modified example of the image projection device 1. The outline of the block diagram shown in Figure 6 is similar to that of Figure 5.

As another example of the configuration of the switching unit 18, as shown in FIG. 6, it has an MCU 18A that detects the pressing of the switch 4, and while it detects the pressing of the switch 4, as an example, it supplies power to the light-emitting unit 31 and the display device 32 so that the projection state is established. Then, while it does not detect the pressing, it does not supply power to the light-emitting unit 31 and the display device 32 so that the non-projection state is established. In this case, the control board 6A functions as a switching unit that switches between the projection state and the non-projection state.

In other words, in the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the control board 6A serves as a switching unit that switches between energized (on state) and de-energized (off state) lines 14 between the control board 6A and the projection unit 3 in response to an operational input from the switch 4 serving as an operating unit, and instead of the switching unit 18 provided on the line 14 in FIG. 5 and performing physical switching, the control board 6A performs the switching electrically.

The control board 6A can control the projection state and projection off state of the projection unit 3. The control board 6A has an MCU 18A (Micro Controller Unit) built in. The MCU 18A can detect the pressed/unpressed state of the switch 4 electrically connected to the control board 6A.

Furthermore, in momentary mode, the control board 6A supplies power to the projection unit 3 via the line 14 while the switch 4 is pressed, based on the information on the pressed/unpressed state of the switch 4 detected by the MCU 18A, to set the projection unit in a projection state.

In other words, in the case of the modified example shown in FIG. 6, the control board 6A functions as a switching unit that switches between supplying and not supplying power to the projection unit 3 in response to pressing the switch 4 (operation unit).

In FIG. 6, switch 4 is connected to ground (GND) and the pressed/unpressed state of switch 4 is detected by the change from the reference voltage, but this is not limited as long as the pressed/unpressed state of switch 4 can be detected.

Figure 7 is a diagram showing the relationship between the direction of pressing the switch 4 and the direction of the optical axis center line L1 of the projection unit 3. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the usage state of the image projection device 1. As shown in Figure 3, the image projection device 1 irradiates the projection light L from the lens unit 3A. Attention is paid to the optical axis center line L1 of the projection light L at this time. As shown in Figure 7, in this embodiment, the switch 4 is installed so that the angle C2 between the optical axis center line L1 of the projection unit 3 and the direction P of pressing the switch 4 perpendicularly to the switch surface for switching the projection on and off is not 90 degrees, and is preferably an obtuse angle less than 90 degrees. As a result, when projecting onto a vertical projection surface W as shown in Figure 8, the amount of bending of the operator's wrist is reduced, and the switch 4 can be pressed and projection can be performed without putting strain on the wrist.

The projection unit 3 has optical elements such as a lens unit 3A, and the "optical axis of the projection unit 3" is, for example, the center of the optical axis of these optical elements.

In addition, since the image projection device 1 is structured to project an image from the tip of the convex portion 2D protruding from the end portion 2A of the main body 2, when the operator holds the device in his/her hand, for example as shown in FIG. 8, the thumb F1 is positioned near the switch 4 on the top surface of the main body 2, the index finger F2 presses the end portion 2A of the main body 2, the middle finger F3 and ring finger F4 press the bottom surface B of the main body 2, and the little finger F5 presses the end portion 2B on the negative x-direction side of the main body 2, the operator can hold the main body 2 more securely with the entire palm. These configurations enable the image projection device 1 of this embodiment to have improved operability.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the main body 2 is preferably formed so that the dimension along the vertical direction (z direction) of the projection image of the projection unit 3 is smaller than the dimension along the horizontal direction (y direction) of the projection image, that is, the thickness in the z direction is thin. The switch 4 is located on the surface of the main body 2 on the upper side (positive z direction) of the projection image.

Moreover, it is preferable that the cross-sectional shape of the main body 2 when viewed from the projection direction (x direction) of the projection unit 3 is formed into a horizontally long (long in the y direction) rectangular shape (rectangle, trapezoid, etc.). It is preferable that the cross-sectional shape of the main body 2 (particularly the thickness in the z direction) is large enough to be wrapped around and grasped by the operator's fingers. Such a shape makes it easy for the operator to hold the device with one hand.

The protrusion 2D, which protrudes from the main body 2 in the projection direction and on which the projection unit 3 is installed, is preferably positioned so that its upper surface is flush with the upper surface of the main body 2. This allows the upper surfaces of the main body 2 and the protrusion 2D facing the palm to be flush with each other, making it easier to hold. The cross-sectional shape of the protrusion 2D in the projection direction (x direction) is also preferably a horizontally long rectangle like the main body 2, but smaller than the rectangular shape of the main body 2 and positioned closer to the center in the left-right width direction (y direction). By shaping the protrusion 2D in this way, a step is created between the protrusion 2D and the main body 2, and by hooking the index finger on this step, the device can be held more stably, improving operability.

In addition, the upper surface of the main body 2 is preferably a curved surface that curves toward the bottom surface B along the projection direction (x direction). The shape of this curved surface can also be expressed as "curved so as to approach the bottom surface B from the x-axis direction in the cross-sectional shape viewed from the y direction" or "the center of curvature of the curved surface shape of the cross-section viewed from the y direction is in the direction of the bottom surface B rather than the position of the upper surface". Furthermore, the upper surface of the convex portion 2D is also a curved surface similar to the upper surface of the main body 2, and it is preferable that the curved surface of the upper surface of the main body 2 and the curved surface of the upper surface of the convex portion 2D are continuously connected. "Continuously connected" can also be said to mean that the curvatures of both curved surfaces at the connected points are approximately the same. These configurations also make it easier to hold. In other words, the upper surface of the main body 2 is curved so as to protrude toward the opposite side to the bottom surface B side (z positive direction side), and the upper surface of the convex portion 2D is also curved so as to protrude toward the opposite side to the bottom surface B side. The surface where the top surface of the main body 2 and the top surface of the protruding portion 2D are continuous is curved so as to protrude on the side opposite the bottom surface B.

The main body 2 may be made of a material with good thermal conductivity such as resin or metal. This makes it easier to dissipate heat generated by the projection unit 3, control boards 6A and 6B, battery 7, etc. from the surface of the main body 2.

As shown in Figs. 4 and 7, the projection unit 3 is disposed inside the protrusion 2D that protrudes forward (x-positive direction, projection direction) from the main body 2 held by the operator. This reduces the amount of heat generated by the projection unit 3 that gets into the area of the main body 2 held by the operator's hand, making it difficult for the operator to feel that the main body 2 is getting hot during use.

Also, as shown in Figures 4, 7, and 8, the projection unit 3 is disposed above the control boards 6A, 6B, and battery 7 in the Z-axis direction. In other words, when the direction of the optical axis center line L1 is horizontal when the device is in use, the projection unit 3 is disposed above the control boards 6A, 6B, and battery 7 in the positive z direction. This prevents heat generated by the projection unit 3 from flowing downward inside the device due to thermal convection when projecting onto the vertical projection surface W, and limits the heat-generating area inside the main body 2 to only the upper part.

The image projection device 1 of this embodiment is also designed to be held by an operator so that heat generated by the projection unit 3 does not accumulate inside the device. When the operator holds it in their hands, they will have to take actions such as grabbing and lifting the image projection device 1 and placing it on a desk after projection, which can cause air movement inside the device. For this reason, it is not recommended to place it on a desk and use it by pressing the switch 4.

9 is a diagram showing the state in which the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment is placed on a plane A. As shown in FIG. 9, in the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment, the projection unit 3 is arranged so that the angle C1 between the optical axis center L1 and the plane A, i.e., the bottom surface B of the main body, is an acute angle (not parallel). In other words, the projection unit 3 is installed so that the projection direction faces downward from the horizontal when the main body 2 is placed on the plane A. As a result, when the image projection device 1 is installed on the plane A such as a desk and projection is performed, a trapezoidal image is projected because the projection light L is directed toward the plane A. In order to obtain a projection image that is not trapezoidal, the operator must hold the main body 2 in his/her hand so that the optical axis center line L1 is perpendicular to the projection surface. Therefore, by installing the projection unit 3 so that the angle C1 between the optical axis center L1 of the projection unit 3 and the bottom surface B of the main body is an acute angle, the operator of the image projection device 1 can be encouraged to hold it in his/her hand.

10 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the switch 4 and the bottom surface B of the main body. As shown in FIG. 10, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, the switch 4 is located such that a part C3 of the switch surface 4A is located outside the bottom surface (ground surface) B1 of the main body with respect to the bottom surface B of the main body. In other words, when the main body 2 is installed on a plane A, the switch 4 is arranged so that a part C3 or the whole of the vertical projection surface (synonymous with the above-mentioned "switch surface 4A") of the switch 4 onto the plane A is outside the bottom surface B1 of the main body 2. As a result, when the switch 4 is installed on a plane A such as a desk and used, when an external force D is applied by pushing in the outer part of the bottom surface B of the main body of the switch 4, a moment M is generated in the main body 2, and the main body 2 rotates around the angle on the x-positive side of the bottom surface B of the main body. In other words, as shown in FIG. 10, when the switch 4 is pressed, the end 2A side of the x-positive side of the main body 2 moves down in the direction approaching the plane A, and the end 2B side of the x-negative side moves up in the direction away from the plane A. As a result, the installation surface B1 rises from the plane A, making the installation state of the main body 2 unstable, making it difficult for the operator to operate the switch 4. This encourages the operator of the image projection device 1 to hold it in their hand when using it.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing a first configuration in which a partition member 8 is arranged. As shown in Figure 11, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, a partition member 8 may be provided between the projection unit 3 housed inside the protrusion 2D and the control boards 6A, 6B housed inside the main body 2. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of heat generated in the projection unit 3 that leaks into the control boards 6A, 6B of the main body 2.

Figure 12 is a diagram showing a second configuration in which a partition member 8A is arranged. As shown in Figure 12, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, a partition member 8A may be provided between the control boards 6A, 6B and the battery 7 housed inside the main body 2. This makes it possible to reduce the transfer of heat generated by the control boards 6A, 6B or the battery 7 to the other side.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing a third configuration in which a partition member 8B is arranged. As shown in Figure 13, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, the partition member 8B may be configured to separate the projection unit 3, the control boards 6A and 6B, and the battery 7. This allows the heat generated within the area of each heat source to be contained, making it easier to manage the temperature of each device.

Figure 14 is a diagram showing a first configuration in which the main body 2 is provided with holes 15, 16 for internal cooling. As shown in Figure 14, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, the main body 2 may be provided with holes 15, 16 for internal cooling. The air inlet hole 16 may be provided in the main body 2 held by the operator, and the air outlet hole 15 may be provided near the opening 2C at the tip of the protrusion 2D. By providing the air outlet hole 15 near the opening 2C, it is possible to reduce the operator's feeling of exhaust heat with his or her hands. In addition, the air inlet hole 16 may be provided in the area 2F on the projection unit 3 side of the area of the main body 2 separated by the partition member 8 between the projection unit 3 and the control boards 6A and 6B. As a result, the heat generated in the projection unit 3 can complete thermal convection only in the small area between the air inlet hole 16 and the air outlet hole 15.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing a second configuration in which the main body 2 is provided with holes 15, 16 for cooling inside the machine. As shown in Figure 15, in the image projection device 1 of this embodiment, a cooling fan 17 may be installed inside the main body 2. By using the cooling fan 17, it is possible to forcibly cool the heat generated inside the machine. The cooling fan 17 is installed, for example, in the air inlet hole 16 provided in the main body 2, and forcibly introduces outside air into the main body 2 to enhance the cooling effect. In addition, by providing the air outlet hole 15 near the opening 2C of the convex portion 2D, the operator can use the image projection device 1 without feeling the hot air being exhausted.

The air outlet hole 15 and the air inlet hole 16 may have various shapes, such as slits, other than holes, as long as they can introduce air into the main body 2 and release heat inside the main body 2 to the outside.

In recent years, there has been a demand for so-called handheld image projection devices, which are devices that an operator holds in his or her hand to project an image. Handheld types are more portable than conventional stationary types. Examples of use cases in which such devices are effective include product explanations, image projection, and other applications in which images are appropriately projected during explanations to deepen the listener's understanding. In these cases, it is important that the operator can turn the projected image on and off at the desired timing. In other words, it is believed that the operability of the device can be improved if the projection is kept off until the desired timing and can be projected immediately at the desired timing. The image projection device 1 of this embodiment is not only handheld, but also easily switches the projection on and off, improving operability.

[Second embodiment]
The second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the image projection device 1A according to the second embodiment, viewed from the z positive side. Figure 17 is a perspective view of the image projection device 1A according to the second embodiment, viewed from the z negative side. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along III-III in Figure 16, and is a vertical cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the image projection device 1A. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along IV-IV in Figure 16, and is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the image projection device 1A.

The image projection device 1A shown in Figures 16 to 19 is a so-called handheld image projection device that can project an image while being held by an operator in one hand.

The image projection device 1A comprises a main body 2, a projection unit 3, and a switch 4 (operation unit). The projection unit 3 projects an image to the outside. The switch 4 switches the projection unit 3 between a projection state and a non-projection state in response to an operation input. The main body 2 is hollow, and the projection unit 3 and other components are housed inside the main body 2.

The switch 4 is disposed on the surface of the main body 2. The switch 4 is an element for inputting operations such as pressing by physically contacting it with a finger or the like, and in the following description, the switch 4 may also be referred to as the "operation unit 4". The switch 4 is also connected to a switching unit 18 (see FIG. 22, etc.) provided on an electric circuit. The switching unit 18 operates in response to a user operation input to the switch 4, switching between energization and de-energization of the line 14 (see FIG. 22) on the electric circuit, thereby switching between the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3. The operation unit 4 and the switching unit 18 may be configured to be integrally formed as a single switch component, or may be configured to be arranged separately and electrically connected.

The main body 2 can be separated into an upper member 21 and a lower member 22 at approximately the center along the z direction, and the image projection device 1A is assembled as a single unit by connecting the upper member 21 or the lower member 22 with the components housed therein.

The main body 2 is formed in a shape that can be held in one hand. Specifically, the main body 2 is formed in an elongated shape with its longitudinal direction aligned with the projection direction (x direction) of the projection unit 3. The projection unit 3 is disposed at end 2A on the x-positive side of the longitudinal direction of the main body 2. A gripping unit 5 for an operator to grip the main body 2 is disposed at end 2B on the x-negative side of the longitudinal direction of the main body 2. The switch 4 is disposed on the projection unit 3 side of the gripping unit 5.

As shown in FIG. 19, the main body 2 is preferably formed so that the dimension along the vertical direction (z direction) of the projection image of the projection unit 3 is larger than the dimension along the horizontal direction (y direction) of the projection image, that is, the thickness in the y direction is thin. The switch 4 is located on the surface of the main body 2 on the upper side (positive z direction) of the projection image.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 19, the cross-section of the main body 2 viewed from the projection direction (x direction) of the projection unit 3 is preferably formed in an oval shape. The term "oval shape" used in the second embodiment includes elliptical, oval, egg-shaped, etc., and refers to a curved shape that is convex outward. In addition, it is not necessary for the entire shape to be convex outward, and a shape that is partially concave inward may also be used.

In the second embodiment, the main body 2 has the above-mentioned shape, so that the operator can easily hold the device with one hand. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the image projection device 1A is used. As shown in FIG. 20, for example, when the operator holds the device with the right hand H, the center of the palm of the hand is in contact with the surface on the negative y direction side of the main body 2, the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and little finger cover the curved surface of the lower part (negative z direction side) of the main body 2, and the ball of the foot covers the surface of the upper part (positive z direction side) of the main body 2. This makes it possible to hold the main body 2 more reliably with the entire back of the hand. In addition, since the main body 2 has a shape with a thin thickness in the y direction, the four fingers of the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and little finger can hold the main body 2 from the surface on the negative y direction side to the surface on the positive y direction side through the surface on the negative z direction side, allowing for a more stable hold.

In addition, by holding the main body 2 with the right hand H in the above-mentioned position, as shown in FIG. 20, the thumb will be positioned on the upper surface (z positive direction side) of the main body 2, making it easy to press the switch 4 while holding the main body 2. This makes it easier for the operator to operate the switch 4, and it becomes possible to irradiate light L from the projection unit 3 at the operator's desired timing in response to the operation of the switch 4, and also to stop the irradiation of light L. Therefore, by making the main body 2 into the above-mentioned shape, the image projection device 1A of the second embodiment can achieve both stable holding and ease of operation of the switch 4, improving the operability of the device.

The projection unit 3 is installed on the main body 2 so that the projection direction is along the longitudinal direction (x direction) of the main body 2. The projection unit 3 also has a lens unit 3A, and is installed on the main body 2 so that the lens unit 3A is exposed from an opening 2C provided at the tip 2A of the main body 2, and is installed on the main body 2 so that the up-down direction of the image projected from the lens unit 3A is along the z direction, and the left-right direction of the image is along the y direction. The projection unit 3 also has a focus adjustment dial 3B, and is installed so that it is exposed from an opening 2C provided on the negative y side of the main body 2. The operator can adjust the focus of the projected image by rotating the focus adjustment dial 3B.

In the image projection device 1A of the second embodiment, the push-in angle can be adjusted by changing the shape of the part of the switch 4 where the finger touches, the installation orientation of the switch 4, and the connection configuration between the switch 4 and the switching unit, and similarly to the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment, the angle between the center line of the optical axis of the projection light L of the projection unit 3 and the direction in which the switch 4, which switches the projection on and off, is pushed in perpendicularly to the switch surface can be set to an angle that is not 90 degrees, and preferably less obtuse than 90 degrees. As a result, similarly to the first embodiment, when projecting onto a vertical projection surface W as shown in FIG. 8, the amount of bending of the operator's wrist is reduced, and the switch 4 can be pressed and projection can be performed without straining the wrist.

Next, the internal structure of the image projection device 1A will be described with reference to Figs. 21 and 22 in addition to Figs. 18 and 19. Fig. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the image projection device 1A.

As shown in FIG. 21, the image projection device 1A includes the above-mentioned projection unit 3 housed inside the main body 2, a control board 6 (control unit), and a battery 7 (power source).

The control board 6 controls the operation of the projection unit 3. The control board 6 can be physically configured as a computer system in which a CPU, RAM, ROM, storage device, interface, etc. are connected via a bus. The various functions of the control board 6 are realized by loading specific computer software onto hardware such as the CPU and RAM, reading and writing data in the RAM and storage device under the control of the CPU, and operating other components such as the projection unit 3 and external devices via the interface.

The battery 7 is a plate-shaped secondary battery that supplies power to the projection unit 3 and the control board 6.

The control board 6 and battery 7 are located at the end 2B of the projection unit 3, and are arranged so that their plate-shaped main surfaces face each other along the left-right direction (y direction) of the projected image of the projection unit 3, thereby enabling the dimension of the main body 2 in the y direction to be shortened.

It is preferable that a partition member 8 is provided inside the main body 2 to separate the space housing the projection unit 3, the control board 6, and the battery 7. The partition member 8 divides the internal space of the main body 2 into three spaces: the space housing the projection unit 3, the space housing the control board 6, and the space housing the battery 7. In addition, the projection unit 3, the control board 6, and the battery 7 are each fixed to the partition member 8 by screw fastening or the like. By providing such a partition member 8, it is possible to prevent the heat generated by the projection unit 3 and the control board 6 from being transmitted to the battery 7, and to prevent deterioration of the battery 7 due to heat.

As shown in Figs. 16, 19, and 21, it is preferable to provide a slit 9 (opening for heat dissipation) for dissipating heat generated by the projection unit 3 on the surface of the main body 2 at a position above the projection image from the projection unit 3 (positive z direction side). It is also preferable to provide a slit 10 (opening for heat dissipation) for dissipating heat generated by the control board 6 on the surface of the main body 2 at a position above the projection image from the control board 6 (positive z direction side). By providing such slits 9 and 10, it is possible to easily dissipate heat generated from the projection unit 3 and the control board 6 to the outside, and it is possible to prevent heat from building up inside the main body 2, so that deterioration of the battery 7 due to heat can be further suppressed. Note that the slits 9 and 10 may be holes other than slits as long as they can dissipate heat inside the main body 2 to the outside.

As shown in Figs. 17 and 19, a button group 11 and an opening 2E are provided on the surface on the negative z side of the main body 2. The button group 11 includes a plurality of buttons for operating each function of the projection device, such as the main power supply. The button group 11 is connected to a button detection board 12 shown in Fig. 21, which is electrically connected to the control board 6. When any button in the button group 11 is pressed, the button detection board 12 detects the press and outputs to the control board 6. Connectors 13, such as a USB connector and HDMI (registered trademark), are arranged so as to be exposed in the opening 2E, and are configured to be able to be connected to various external devices by wiring. The connectors 13 are installed, for example, on the control board 6.

Figure 22 is a block diagram of the image projection device 1A. As shown in Figure 22, the projection unit 3 has a light-emitting unit 31 and a DLP (Digital Light Processing) 32 as a display device. The light-emitting unit 31 has LEDs 31R, 31G, and 31B. The LEDs 31R, 31G, and 31B are light sources of red (R), green (G), and blue (B), respectively. The DLP 32 is an image forming unit that forms a projection image using the light output from the light-emitting unit 31 and outputs it to the outside. Note that the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32 may be replaced with other elements that can fulfill their respective functions.

22, the information transmission system of the image projection device 1A is shown by a solid line, the power supply system is shown by a thick solid line, and the optical system is shown by a dotted line. As shown in FIG. 22, the information transmission system of the image projection device 1A outputs a control signal from the control board 6 to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3. In addition, in the power supply system of the image projection device 1A, power is first supplied from the battery 7 to the control board 6, and then power is supplied from the control board 6 to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3 via the wiring 14. In this embodiment in particular, a switching unit 18 is disposed on the wiring 14 between the control board 6 and the projection unit 3. The switching unit 18 can be switched between an on state and an off state by an operation input of a switch 4 as an operation unit.

When the switching unit 18 is in the ON state, it supplies power to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3, and when it is in the OFF state, it stops the power supply to the light-emitting unit 31 and DLP 32 of the projection unit 3. Meanwhile, regardless of whether the switching unit 18 is ON or OFF, power is always supplied to the control board 6 from the battery 7. This allows the switching unit 18 to switch between the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3, i.e., between turning on/off the light-emitting unit 31 and operating/stopping the DLP 32, in response to an operation input to the operation unit 4, while maintaining the activated state of the control board 6.

In this way, the projection state and non-projection state of the projection unit 3 can be switched depending on the on/off state of the switching unit 18 in response to the operation of the switch 4 (operation unit 4) by the operator. Therefore, the image projection device 1A of the second embodiment can be appropriately switched to a non-projection state when image projection is not necessary even during operation, thereby reducing power consumption, extending the life of the projection unit 3, and reducing heat generation. In addition, since the control board 6 is maintained in an activated state even when the projection unit 3 is in a non-projection state, the projection unit 3 can start up more quickly when switching back to the projection state, compared to a configuration in which both the projection unit 3 and the control board 6 are stopped, such as in a conventional standby mode. This makes it possible to project images in a timely manner in response to the operator's switch operation, improving the operability of the device.

Switch 4 is a push button type switch. Therefore, while the operator is pressing switch 4, the projection unit 3 is in a projection state (the light-emitting unit 31 is on and the DLP 32 is in an operating state), and when the operator removes his/her hand from switch 4, the projection unit 3 is in a non-projection state (the light-emitting unit 31 is off and the DLP 32 is in a stopped state). This allows the timing when the operator wants to project an image to match the timing when the switch 4 is pressed, providing the operator with a more intuitive feeling of operation using a so-called momentary switch. Switch 4 is also a button for the operator to switch between projection and non-projection, and can also be called a projection button.

In the example of FIG. 22, the switching unit 18 switches between the presence and absence of power supply from the control board 6 to both the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32, but the switching unit 18 may be disposed at a position on the wiring 14 where it can switch between the presence and absence of power supply to only one of the light-emitting unit 31 or the DLP 32. It is sufficient for the switching unit 18 to be able to switch between at least a projection state in which an image is projected from the projection unit 3 to the outside, and a non-projection state in which an image is not projected from the projection unit 3 to the outside.

[Third embodiment]
The third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 23 to Fig. 27. Fig. 23 is a perspective view of an image projection device 1B according to the third embodiment, as viewed from the z positive direction side.

As shown in FIG. 23, the image projection device 1B has a sensor 40 (detection unit) provided on the surface of the main body 2. The sensor 40 detects the state of the image projection device 1B. The state of the image projection device 1B detected by the sensor 40 includes information such as the light source temperature, posture, and projection direction during operation.

In the third embodiment, the projection image output by the projection unit 3 can be controlled in response to changes in the usage environment of the image projection device 1B based on information detected by the sensor 40, and the projection image can be adjusted to be easier to see. Hereinafter, this control is also referred to as "projection image output control."

As shown in FIG. 23, the sensor 40 may be configured to be detachable from the surface of the main body 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, the main body 2 of the image projection device 1B is provided with a claw 41 that protrudes downward (in the negative z direction) from the lower part of the front end 2A. The sensor 40 is fixed to the lower part of the front end 2A of the main body 2 by engaging with the claw 41. The operator can choose whether to attach the sensor 40 to the main body 2 and perform projection image output control to always obtain a projection image that is easy to see, or to remove the sensor 40 from the main body 2 to make it lightweight and small, and not to perform projection image output control.

The sensor 40 may be configured to be provided inside the main body 2.

Figure 24 is a block diagram of a first configuration of the projection image output control. In the first configuration, a temperature sensor 40A that measures the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31 (see Figure 25) is applied to the sensor 40. In the first configuration, the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31 is detected as information on the state of the image projection device 1B. In addition, in the first configuration, the projection image output by the projection unit 3 is controlled so that the color of the projection image is constant (color change suppression processing).

The temperature sensor 40A is communicatively connected to a signal processing circuit 61. The signal processing circuit 61 is connected to a drive circuit 34, which is connected to the display device 32 of the projection unit 33. The signal processing circuit 61 and the drive circuit 34 are included in the control board 6A. The sensor value detected by the temperature sensor 40A is input to the signal processing circuit 61, and the signal processing circuit 61 applies image processing based on the sensor value to the input video signal. In short, the sensor 40 makes it possible to change the projected image according to the usage environment of the image projection device 1B.

When the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31 increases, the emission spectrum of the light-emitting unit 31 changes, and so if the image processing by the signal processing circuit 61, drive circuit 34, and display device 32 is constant, the color of the projected image will change. Therefore, in the first configuration of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 24, the sensor value (light source temperature) detected by the temperature sensor 40A in the light-emitting unit 31 of the projection unit 3 of the image projection device 1B is input to the signal processing circuit 61, and the signal processing circuit 61 changes the image processing of the input video signal according to the light source temperature. This reduces the effect of changes in the emission spectrum caused by temperature changes, making it possible to maintain a constant color of the projected image.

Figure 25 is a block diagram of a second configuration of the projection image output control. In the second configuration, the sensor 40 is a temperature sensor 40A that measures the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31, as in the first configuration.

In the second configuration, unlike the first configuration, the signal processing circuit 61 controls the light-emitting unit 31 itself, rather than the display device 32. In the second configuration, when the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31 reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, the signal processing circuit 61 reduces the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting unit 31 to reduce heat generated by the light-emitting unit 31. This reduces the temperature of the light-emitting unit 31 below the predetermined temperature, minimizing deterioration of the light-emitting unit 31 due to high temperatures and the associated change in the emission spectrum over time. Furthermore, compared to the first configuration, the change in color of the projected image over time can also be suppressed.

Figure 26 is a block diagram of a third configuration of the projection image output control. In the third configuration, a gravitational acceleration sensor 40B and a gyro sensor 40C are applied to the sensor 40. In the third configuration, the attitude of the image projection device 1B is detected as information related to the state of the image projection device 1B. In addition, in the third configuration, the projection image output by the projection unit 3 is controlled so as to correct keystone distortion of the projection image (keystone distortion correction processing).

The gravitational acceleration sensor 40B can be used to determine the direction of gravity, and the attitude of the image projection device 1B relative to the projection surface can be determined based on this information. In the third configuration, based on the attitude information, the signal processing circuit 61, which receives the display video signal as input, can perform keystone correction processing on the projected image. However, when vibrations are applied to the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B, it becomes unable to detect the direction of gravity.

Here, the third configuration is equipped with a gyro sensor 40C capable of measuring angular velocity, and when in a vibration state, the angular velocity information of the gyro sensor 40C is temporarily used to continue posture estimation.

When the switch 4 of the image projection device 1B is turned on and off manually, vibrations occur, so it is important that keystone correction can continue even under vibration conditions.

Figure 27 is a flowchart of the keystone correction process. Each process in the flowchart of Figure 27 is executed by the signal processing circuit 61.

In step S01, the current time is set as the stored time T, and in step S02, the system waits for a certain period of time. During this waiting period, i.e., during the period from the stored time T to the latest current time after the certain period of time has elapsed, the time series data of the sensor value α(t) of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is stored.

In step S03, the time average value Ave_α of the squared value of the sensor value α(t) of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B during the period from the stored time T to the latest current time after a certain time has elapsed is calculated. For example, the time average value Ave_α of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B can be calculated using the following formula (1).

In step S04, it is determined whether the time average value Ave_α of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is smaller than a predetermined threshold value. This makes it possible to determine whether vibration is occurring in the image projection device 1B.

If the time average value Ave_α of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is less than the threshold value (Yes in step S04), it is determined in step S05 that no vibration is occurring, and the estimated attitude t is updated with the gravitational acceleration sensor value. In other words, the gravitational direction tg indicated by the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is used as the estimated attitude value t. It is expressed by the following equation (2).

Estimated posture t = (gravity direction tg indicated by gravitational acceleration sensor 40B) ... (2)

On the other hand, if the time average value Ave_α of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is equal to or greater than the threshold value (No in step S04), then in step S06 it is determined that vibration has occurred and that the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B is not indicating the correct direction of gravity, and the estimated attitude t is updated with the gyro sensor value. In other words, attitude estimation is performed using the angular velocity value output by the gyro sensor 40C. More specifically, the estimated attitude t is calculated using the following equation (3).

Estimated posture t=estimated posture memory value tp+
(attitude change per time calculated from the angular velocity indicated by the gyro sensor tw)×
((Current time) - (Memorized time T)) ... (3)

In step S07, the trapezoidal distortion of the projected image is corrected based on the estimated orientation value t updated in step S05 or S06.

In step S08, the estimated posture value t is stored as the estimated posture stored value tp, and the current time is stored as the stored time T. When the processing of step S08 is completed, the process returns to step S03.

By substituting the sensor value of gyro sensor 40C in this way, keystone correction based on posture estimation can be continued even under vibration conditions.

In the third configuration shown in Figures 26 and 27, the configuration may use only one of the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B and the gyro sensor 40C, or the gravitational acceleration sensor 40B and the gyro sensor 40C may be replaced with a detection unit that can detect the attitude of the image projection device 1B other than the gyro sensor 40C.

In addition, in a configuration using a gyro sensor 40C as the attitude detection means, since the gyro sensor 40C has a physical rotating object, the gyro effect of this rotating object may be used to control the attitude so as to counteract the change in attitude of the image projection device 1B. This allows the projection direction of the projection unit 3 to be stabilized, enabling more stable keystone distortion correction.

In addition, in a configuration in which the gyro sensor 40C is used as the attitude detection means and the projection image output by the projection unit 3 is configured to project only a partial area of the input image, the partial area to be projected may be selected based on the value of the gyro sensor 40C. In this way, when the attitude of the image projection device 1B changes, the area to be displayed of the input image can be shifted accordingly, thereby achieving a camera shake correction effect.

It is also possible to configure the device to execute both the color change suppression process shown in Figs. 24 and 25 and the keystone correction process shown in Figs. 26 and 27. That is, it is provided with a temperature sensor 40A, a gravitational acceleration sensor 40B for detecting posture, and a gyro sensor 40C. With this configuration, it is possible to perform keystone correction on the projected image even under vibration conditions, and to keep the color of the projected image constant.

Note that the image projection device 1B of the third embodiment has been illustrated as a device having an external shape similar to that of the image projection device 1A of the second embodiment, but the configuration of the third embodiment can also be applied to the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment.

[Fourth embodiment]
The fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

The image projection device 1C according to the fourth embodiment includes, as components to which a video input signal is input, a wired input unit such as HDMI or VGA, and a wireless input unit such as Wifi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or via the Internet. In the image projection device 1C according to the fourth embodiment, when a video input signal is input from the wired input unit or the wireless input unit, the projection image output from the projection unit is automatically switched to the image of the video signal input from the wired input unit or the wireless input unit according to priority.

The wired input unit is, for example, the connectors 13 shown in FIG. 17. In the case of a wired connection, information is input by connecting via the connectors 13 arranged in the opening 2E of the main body 2. The wireless input unit is installed on the control board 6 shown in, for example, FIGS. 18-19 and 21-22. The process of switching the projected image is performed by the control board 6 shown in, for example, FIGS. 18-19 and 21-22.

Figure 28 shows the flow of switching video input signals in the fourth embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 28 is implemented by, for example, the control board 6. In the example in Figure 28, a wired connection is set as the priority.

In step S11, an external cable and connectors are connected to the wired input section, and it is determined whether or not there is video input on the wired connection side. Based on that, if there is video input via the wired connection (YES in S11), projection immediately begins based on that video signal in step S12. In other words, the video from the wired input is projected (mode A).

On the other hand, if there is no video signal from the wired connection (NO in S11), in step S13, the image from the wireless input is projected (mode B).

Then, by repeating the process of FIG. 28 at regular intervals, when a wired connection is detected, the image from the wired side is projected without the operator of the image projection device 1C having to switch the settings of the input signal used for the projected image. Also, even when using wirelessly, the image from the wireless input can be projected without the operator having to switch the input settings (by not using a wired connection).

In this way, in the example of Figure 28, a wired connection is used, and if there is a video signal from the wired input, the image from the wired input is automatically projected. In other words, the presence or absence of a wired input triggers switching between displaying the image from the wired input and the image from the wireless input.

In the example of FIG. 28, the wired connection is set as the priority setting, but the wireless side may be set as the priority setting, or the priority setting itself may be configured to be set by the operator of the image projection device 1C.

The configuration that allows the operator of the image projection device 1C to set priority settings will be further described with reference to Figures 29 to 31. Figure 29 is a diagram showing an example of the display form of the priority setting screen 42.

As shown in FIG. 29, in the image projection device 1C according to the fourth embodiment, the operator of the image projection device 1C can set the priority of the input unit via a priority setting screen 42. The priority setting screen 42 is displayed on the projection image P that is projected to the outside by the projection light L irradiated from the projection unit 3, for example.

Figure 30 is a diagram showing a first example of the priority setting screen 42. In the example of Figure 30, the priority setting screen 42 displays "HDMI" as the wired input section, and "Wi-Fi" as the wireless input section. The "< >" mark indicates the selected device, and Figure 30 shows that HDMI is selected.

In this embodiment, the button group 11 provided on the main body 2 of the image projection device 1C includes a switch button 11A for switching between displaying and hiding a priority setting screen 42 on the projection image P, and a selection button 11B for selecting a priority setting item, in addition to the main power and projection ON/OFF buttons. By pressing the switch button 11A, the priority setting screen 42 shown in FIG. 30 is displayed on the projection image P as shown in FIG. 29, and by pressing the selection button 11B, the "< >" mark moves between "HDMI" and "Wi-Fi" on the priority setting screen 42 in FIG. 30, allowing the priority input section to be switched. By providing the priority setting buttons 11A and 11B on the main body 2, the image projection device 1C can be set up on its own, and no other device such as a smartphone is required.

In FIG. 29, the two buttons on the negative x side of the four button group 11 are illustrated as a priority setting switch button 11A and a selection button 11B, but this is merely an example and the arrangement of the priority setting buttons is not limited to this.

The settings made on the screen in FIG. 30 are recorded in a recording device (for example, provided on the control board 6) built into the main body 2. Therefore, by setting the items the user wants to prioritize when the product is first started up, the user can avoid the hassle of having to set inputs one by one when actually using the product.

Figure 31 is a diagram showing a second example of the priority setting screen 42. In the example of Figure 31, the priority setting screen 42 displays two wired inputs, "HDMI" and "VGA," and displays "Wi-Fi" as a wireless input.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 31, the input method is displayed on the priority setting screen 42 without distinction between wired and wireless. By operating the selection button 11B similar to the first example shown in FIG. 30, the highest priority item can be set in the following order: "HDMI" ⇒ "VGA" ⇒ "Wifi" ⇒ "HDMI" ⇒ ....

In addition, in this embodiment, for example, the control board 6 has an internal priority order, such as HDMI > VGA > Wi-Fi, in advance. In contrast, when the top priority item is set by the operator, that item is changed to a higher priority in the wired connection order. For example, when VGA or Wi-Fi is selected, it moves higher than HDMI, but there is no change in priority even if HDMI, which is already set to the top, is selected.

Of course, these internal priorities can be other patterns, and if the operator can set the priorities, convenience for the operator can be further improved.

In addition, since no display is made from the Wi-Fi input when a wired connection is in place, the Wi-Fi module that performs wireless communication may be configured to automatically turn off when there is a wired video input. This can eliminate the power used by the Wi-Fi module, improving battery life 7.

The system may also be configured so that the operator can choose via a menu whether to turn Wi-Fi OFF or leave it ON when connected via a wired connection.

In addition, in a configuration in which the projection unit 3 is in a projection state while the operator presses the switch 4, and in a configuration in which the priority setting screen 42 is displayed on the projection image P output from the projection unit 3, the projection may be automatically performed without pressing the switch 4 only when the priority setting screen 42 is displayed. This eliminates the need for the complicated operation of pressing the priority setting buttons 11A and 11B of the button group 11 while pressing the switch 4, and increases convenience by allowing operation with one hand. In addition, the operator may be able to set the automation of projection when the priority setting screen 42 is displayed to ON/OFF.

In addition, instead of having a dedicated button for priority settings, the priority settings screen 42 may be opened by performing a predetermined operation on the switch 4 (e.g., pressing five times within three seconds). Switching after entering the priority settings screen 42 may also be performed by a predetermined operation on the switch 4 (e.g., pressing two times within one second), and the priority settings screen 42 may be closed by pressing and holding the projection button. This eliminates the need for a dedicated button for priority settings and allows the number of buttons to be reduced, resulting in effects such as increased convenience, reduced complexity, improved design, and reduced costs.

Note that the image projection device 1C of the fourth embodiment has been illustrated as a device having an external shape similar to that of the image projection device 1A of the second embodiment, but the configuration of the fourth embodiment can also be applied to the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment.

[Fifth embodiment]
The fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

The image projection device 1D according to the fifth embodiment can also execute a continuous projection mode (second mode) in addition to the momentary mode (first mode) described in the first to fourth embodiments. The momentary mode is a switching mode in which the projection state is maintained only while the switch 4 (operation unit) is pressed. The continuous projection mode is a mode in which the projection state is maintained regardless of the operation of the switch 4 (operation unit), and the projection state is maintained without switching to a non-projection state even when the switch 4 (operation unit) is released (not pressed by the operator).

Fig. 32 is a diagram for explaining a mode switching method in the fifth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 32, in the fifth embodiment, the above-mentioned two modes, momentary mode and continuous projection mode, can be switched by a specific input sequence of the switch 4. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 32, when the switch 4 is single-clicked, the momentary mode is selected, and when the switch 4 is double-clicked, the continuous projection mode is selected.

In this way, by making it possible to execute two modes, momentary mode and continuous projection mode, for example, when an operator wants to continue projection for a long period of time, by selecting continuous projection mode, the projection state can be maintained without continuously pressing the operation unit 4, thereby reducing the burden on the operator. Also, by configuring to switch between momentary mode and continuous projection mode in response to a specific operation on the operation unit 4, it becomes possible to switch between projection/non-projection and mode switching with a single switch (operation unit 4). As a result, when an operator wants to switch modes while using the device, they can switch modes more easily and quickly while still holding the device.

The input sequence for switching modes is not limited to the example in FIG. 32. For example, contrary to the example in FIG. 32, a configuration may be adopted in which momentary mode is selected when switch 4 is double-clicked and continuous projection mode is selected when switch 4 is single-clicked. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which momentary mode and continuous projection mode are selected when switch 4 is double-clicked, or a configuration may be adopted in which momentary mode and continuous projection mode are selected when switch 4 is single-clicked. In the following explanation, an example of a configuration in which momentary mode and continuous projection mode are selected when switch 4 is double-clicked will be described.

The functional blocks of the image projection device 1D according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. The block diagram of the image projection device 1D according to the fifth embodiment is similar to that of the modified example of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6. In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the control board 6A electrically switches the line 14 between the control board 6A and the projection unit 3 between energized (on state) and de-energized (off state) in response to an operation input of a switch 4 as an operation unit, instead of the switching unit 18 provided on the line 14 in FIG. 5, which switches physically.

The control board 6A can control the projection state and projection off state of the projection unit 3. The control board 6A has an MCU 18A (Micro Controller Unit) built in. The MCU 18A can detect the pressed/unpressed state of the switch 4 electrically connected to the control board 6A.

The control board 6A can measure the time transition of the pressed/unpressed state of the switch 4 using the MCU 18A, and can determine that the switch 4 has been double-clicked (or single-clicked) based on this time transition. Then, as described above, the control board 6A switches between the continuous projection mode and the momentary mode each time the switch 4 is double-clicked.

Furthermore, in momentary mode, the control board 6A supplies power to the projection unit 3 via the line 14 while the switch 4 is pressed, based on the information on the pressed/unpressed state of the switch 4 detected by the MCU 18A, to set the projection unit in a projection state.

In other words, in the image projection device 1D according to the fifth embodiment, similar to the modified example of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the control board 6A functions as a switching unit that switches between supplying power to the projection unit 3 and not supplying power in response to pressing of the switch 4 (operation unit), and also functions as a second switching unit that switches between momentary mode and continuous projection mode, providing two types of switching functions.

Figure 33 is a flowchart of the mode switching process in the fifth embodiment.

In step S21, the momentary mode is set as the initial lighting mode of the image projection device 1D.

In step S22, a determination is made as to whether switch 4 has been double-clicked. The control board 6A determines whether a double-click operation has been performed based on information on the time transition of the pressed/unpressed state of switch 4 detected by MCU 18A.

In step S23, it is confirmed whether or not the determination result indicates that a double click operation has been performed. If a double click operation has not been performed (No in step S23), the process proceeds to step S24, where the process waits for a predetermined waiting time T0, and then the process proceeds to step S22 again to determine whether a double click has been performed.

On the other hand, if a double click operation has been performed (Yes in step S23), the process proceeds to step S25, where the current lighting mode is confirmed. If the current lighting mode is momentary mode, the process proceeds to step S26, where the lighting mode is switched to continuous lighting mode. After that, the process waits for a predetermined waiting time T1 in step S27, and then proceeds again to the double click determination in step S22.

On the other hand, if the current lighting mode is the continuous lighting mode, the process proceeds to step S28, where the lighting mode is switched to the momentary mode. After that, the process waits for a predetermined waiting time T2 in step S29, and then proceeds to the double-click judgment in step S22 again.

This allows the user to switch between multiple operation modes with a single switch 4 without using multiple switches, providing users with an easy-to-understand operation.

A modified example of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 34 to 36. Fig. 34 is a side cross-sectional view of an image projection device 1D according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 35 is a schematic diagram showing a first stage of pressing the switch 4B (operation unit). Fig. 36 is a schematic diagram showing a second stage of pressing the switch 4B.

The mode switching in the fifth embodiment can also be performed without double-clicking (or single-clicking) the switch 4. For example, as shown in Figures 34 to 36, a holding mechanism 19 can be provided that can hold the switch 4B in a pressed state, so that the mode is essentially switched to the continuous projection mode. This makes it possible to switch to the continuous projection mode more easily without performing a specific input operation such as a double-click.

34, the switch 4B is turned on by being pushed in the P direction toward the inside of the main body 2, and the projection unit 3 can be put into a projection state. Furthermore, the switch 4B is configured to be slidable in the P2 direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the P direction) toward the front side of the main body 2. The switch 4B has a periphery that is recessed in a step toward the inside of the main body 2 (in the P direction) from the upper operation surface 4E that is pressed by the operator, and this periphery faces the inner wall of the main body 2. Furthermore, the portion of the periphery on the front side of the main body 2 (in the P2 direction) has a two-step periphery. It has a first step surface 4C that is recessed one step from the operation surface 4E, and a second step surface 4D that is further recessed from the first step surface 4C. The second step surface 4D is positioned further forward on the main body 2 than the first step surface 4C, so that a two-step step surface is provided from the operation surface 4E to the front of the main body 2. Furthermore, of the inner wall of the main body 2, an end surface 2G that faces the first step surface 4C and second step surface 4D of the switch 4B protrudes inward (in the P direction) from other parts of the inner wall.

When switch 4B is in the OFF state, as shown by dotted lines in Figures 34 and 35, second step surface 4D is positioned opposite end surface 2G, and first step surface 4C is positioned outward of end surface 2G. This results in operation surface 4E being flush with the outer surface of main body 2 or positioned so as to protrude outward from the outer surface. At this time, end surface 4F connecting first step surface 4C and second step surface 4D is caught by main body 2, so switch 4B is restricted from sliding forward (in the P2 direction) of main body 2.

When switch 4B is in the ON state, as shown in FIG. 35, switch 4B is pushed into main body 2 in direction P. At this time, first step surface 4C moves to a position lower than end surface 2G, so end surface 4F also becomes lower than end surface 2G and is released from the restriction, and switch 4B can slide forward toward main body 2 as shown in FIG. 36. As a result, part of first step surface 4C (locking area m) can wrap around to the underside of end surface 2G. Even if switch 4B tries to return upward from this state, locking area m of first step surface 4C hits end surface 2G, so switch 4B cannot return to the OFF state and the ON state is maintained.

In the example of Figures 34 to 36, the slidable switch 4B, the first step surface 4C of the switch 4B, and the end surface 2G of the main body 2 function as a "holding mechanism 19 that holds the operating unit 4 in a pressed state."

In this way, the lock region m of switch 4B allows switch 4B to be held in a pressed state, so projection can be performed without having to keep pressing switch 4B. In other words, it is possible to switch from momentary mode to continuous projection mode.

The modified examples in Figures 34 to 36 can be described as "structures for switching between momentary mode and continuous projection mode" as mentioned above, or as "structures for maintaining the projection state without having to keep pressing a switch in an image projection device that can only implement a single momentary mode."

In the fifth embodiment, the MCU 18A may be configured to be able to detect the pressing force of the operation unit 4B in stages. In this configuration, the control board 6A can switch the switching mode of the projection unit 3 between momentary mode and continuous projection mode in response to the pressing of the operation unit 4B detected by the MCU 18A. For example, when the pressing force is relatively small, the mode can be switched to the momentary mode, and when the pressing force is relatively large, the mode can be switched to the continuous projection mode.

Alternatively, the device may have both the MCU 18A and the holding mechanism 19. In this case, the holding mechanism 19 can hold the pressed state even after switching to the continuous projection mode (second mode) by a specific operation.

Note that the image projection device 1D of the fifth embodiment has been illustrated as a device having an external shape similar to that of the image projection device 1 of the first embodiment, but the configuration of the fifth embodiment can also be applied to the image projection devices 1A, 1B, and 1C of the second to fourth embodiments.

The above describes the embodiments with reference to specific examples. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these specific examples. Design modifications to these specific examples made by a person skilled in the art are also included within the scope of the present disclosure as long as they have the features of the present disclosure. The elements of each of the above-mentioned specific examples, as well as their arrangement, conditions, shape, etc., are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. The elements of each of the above-mentioned specific examples can be combined in different ways as appropriate, as long as no technical contradictions arise.

In the above embodiment, the switch 4 is a push button switch, but other types of switches may be used as long as they can be switched on and off in response to operational input. For example, a touch switch that uses a contact sensor may be used. In addition, in the above embodiment, a momentary switch is used, but the switch may be an alternate switch, that is, a switch that turns on when pressed once, maintains the on state even after being released, and turns off when pressed again.

In addition, in the above embodiment, a configuration was exemplified in which both the light-emitting unit 31 and the DLP 32 of the projection unit 3 are stopped together when the switch 4 is in the OFF state, but as long as it is possible to switch at least between a projection state and a non-projection state, a configuration in which only either the light-emitting unit 31 or the DLP 32 is stopped may also be used.

Reference Signs List 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D Image projection device 2 Main body 3 Projection unit 31 Light-emitting unit 32 DLP (image forming unit)
36 Light source 4, 4B Switch (operation part)
6, 6A Control board (control unit)
9, 10 Slits (openings for heat dissipation)
18 Switching unit 18A MPU
19 Holding mechanism 40 Sensor (detection unit)
40A Temperature sensor (detection part)
40B Gravity acceleration sensor (detection unit)
40C Gyro sensor (detection part)
42 Priority setting screen 2D Convex portion 8, 8A, 8B Partition member 15 Air outlet hole 16 Air inlet hole 17 Cooling fan C2 Angle between the direction of the optical axis center of the projection unit and the direction in which the switch is pressed

JP 2009-175174 A

Claims (20)

a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside;
A main body that houses the projection unit;
An operation unit disposed on a surface of the main body;
A control unit that controls an operation of the projection unit,
the operation unit switches the projection unit between a projection state and a non-projection state in response to an operation input while maintaining an activated state of the control unit;
The projection unit has a light emitting unit,
The light emitting unit is switched on and off in response to an operation input of the operation unit,
The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of the optical axis center of the light and a pushing direction of the operation unit is not 90 degrees ,
When the main body is placed on a horizontal plane, the projection direction of the projection unit faces downward from the horizontal plane.
Image projection device. The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of an optical axis center of the projection unit and a pushing direction of the operation unit is an obtuse angle.
The image projection device according to claim 1 . the projection unit has a protrusion formed protruding from the main body on a side onto which the image is projected,
The projection portion is disposed inside the protrusion.
3. The image projection device according to claim 1 or 2. When the direction of the optical axis center is a horizontal direction, the projection unit is disposed above the control unit that is housed in the main body and controls the operation of the projection unit.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The operation unit is disposed so that, when the main body is placed on a horizontal plane, a part or all of a vertical projection plane of the operation unit onto the plane is located outside a bottom surface of the main body.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . a partition member is provided between the projection unit housed inside the main body and the control unit housed in the main body and controlling the operation of the projection unit;
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 . a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside;
A main body that houses the projection unit;
An operation unit disposed on a surface of the main body,
The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of the optical axis center of the light and a pushing direction of the operation unit is not 90 degrees,
a projection formed on the main body and on a side where the projection unit projects the image, the projection having a hole at a tip end on a projection direction side of the main body and protruding from the main body;
Image projection device. A hole is provided in an area of the main body on the projection unit side, the area being separated by the partition member.
The image projection device according to claim 6 . A cooling fan is provided inside the main body.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 . A part or the whole of the main body is formed of a thermally conductive resin.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 . The body is formed in part or in whole from metal;
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 . The main body is formed in a shape that can be held in one hand.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 . A control unit that controls an operation of the projection unit,
The projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by an operator,
the projection unit is put into a non-projection state when the operation unit is not pressed by the operator.
The image projection device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 . and switching between a first mode in which the projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by the operator and in which the projection unit is in a non-projection state when the operation unit is not being pressed by the operator, and a second mode in which the projection unit is maintained in the projection state even when the operation unit is not being pressed.
The image projection device according to claim 13 . The predetermined operation includes a double click or a single click of the operation unit.
The image projection device according to claim 14 . a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside;
A main body that houses the projection unit;
An operation unit disposed on a surface of the main body,
The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of the optical axis center of the light and a pushing direction of the operation unit is not 90 degrees,
A control unit that controls an operation of the projection unit,
The projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by an operator,
When the operation unit is not pressed by the operator, the projection unit is in a non-projection state;
a holding mechanism for holding the operation unit in a pressed state,
when the pressing state of the operation unit is held by the holding mechanism, the projection state of the projection unit is maintained even when the operation unit is not pressed by the operator ,
When the main body is placed on a horizontal plane, the projection direction of the projection unit faces downward from the horizontal plane.
Image projection device. a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside;
A main body that houses the projection unit;
An operation unit disposed on a surface of the main body,
The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of the optical axis center of the light and a pushing direction of the operation unit is not 90 degrees,
A control unit that controls an operation of the projection unit,
The projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by an operator,
When the operation unit is not pressed by the operator, the projection unit is in a non-projection state;
a switching unit that switches between supplying and not supplying power from the control unit to the projection unit in response to a pressing operation of the operation unit ;
When the main body is placed on a horizontal plane, the projection direction of the projection unit faces downward from the horizontal plane.
Image projection device. The switching unit is installed on a wiring that supplies power from the control unit to the projection unit,
switching between energizing and interrupting the wiring in response to a pressing operation of the operation unit;
18. The image projection device according to claim 17 . The switching unit performs control to switch between supplying and not supplying power to the projection unit by the control unit in response to a pressing operation of the operation unit.
18. The image projection device according to claim 17 . a projection unit that projects an image by irradiating light to the outside;
A main body that houses the projection unit;
An operation unit disposed on a surface of the main body,
The operation unit is installed so that an angle between a direction of the optical axis center of the light and a pushing direction of the operation unit is not 90 degrees,
A control unit that controls an operation of the projection unit,
The projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by an operator,
putting the projection unit in a non-projection state when the operation unit is not pressed by the operator;
the control unit is capable of executing a first mode in which the projection unit is in a projection state while the operation unit is being pressed by the operator and in which the projection unit is in a non-projection state when the operation unit is not being pressed by the operator, and a second mode in which the projection unit is in the projection state regardless of the operation of the operation unit,
the control unit is capable of detecting a pressing force of the operation unit in a stepwise manner, and switches between the first mode and the second mode in response to the pressing force.
Image projection device.

Images