Methods for combining camera and projector functions in a single device
AssigneeTexas Instruments Incorporated
InventorsMichael T. Davis, Daniel J. Morgan, Amit K. Saha, Roger S. Carver
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Described are handheld devices with combined image capture and image projection functions. One embodiment includes modulating and capturing a light beam along the same optic path. In another embodiment, the optical components are operable to switch between projection and capture modes. In yet another embodiment, the optical components may be formed on the same semiconductor substrate thereby increasing functionality.
Claims20
A method for operating a display device, comprising:
- in a projection mode,
- directing light from a light source along a first optical path through optical devices to be incident onto a spatial light modulator;
- modulating the incident light with the spatial light modulator;
- directing the modulated light along a second optical path through a projection optics for projecting an image;
- and
- in a camera mode,
- receiving incoming light along the second optical path through the projection optics onto the spatial light modulator;
- passing the incoming light by the spatial light modulator;
- and
- directing the passed light along the first optical path through at least a portion of the optical devices to an image sensor placed to receive the passed light only during the camera mode for capturing an image.
A method for operating a display device, comprising:
- in a projection mode,
- directing light from a light source along a first optical path through optical devices to be incident onto a reflective spatial light modulator;
- modulating the incident light with the spatial light modulator;
- directing the modulated light along a second optical path through a projection optics for projecting an image;
- and
- in a camera mode,
- receiving incoming light along the second optical path through the projection optics onto the spatial light modulator;
- placing an image sensor for capturing an image in the first optical path to receive light on the first optical path during the camera mode;
- and
- reflecting the incoming light from the reflective spatial light modulator through at least a portion of the optical devices on the first optical path to the image sensor.
A method for operating a display device, comprising:
- in a projection mode,
- directing light from a light source along a first optical path through optical devices to be incident onto a reflective spatial light modulator;
- modulating the incident light with the spatial light modulator;
- directing the modulated light along a second optical path through a projection optics for projecting an image;
- and
- in a camera mode,
- receiving incoming light along the second optical path through the projection optics onto the spatial light modulator;
- using a mechanical actuator, moving an image sensor placed to receive the incoming light only during the camera mode for capturing an image.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.