Apple Patent for Integrated Projector

In a recent patent application, Apple may be revealing their intention to integrate mini-projectors into their iOS devices (iPhones and iPads) as well as a possible portable video projector accessory for Macbooks. Recently, we posted an article about developments in lens technology that is an important step towards integrating a video projector into smartphones and portable devices. Now, with this patent by Apple perhaps the days of embedded mini video projectors is closer than we may think.

Also of note in the patent application is language describing “gesturing analysis” that might permit a novel user interface. In this scenario a user could interact with the projected image – shadows created by a user’s gestures, whether onto a video projection screen or wall, would be interpreted by image processing software.

Apple, in previous patents, has shown interest in projection technology, but this patent is the most comprehensive to date and suggests that it has become a priority for Apple engineers.

Tiny Lens by Alps Electric

Alps Electric has recently announced the world’s smallest aspherical glass lens measuring 1mm x 1mm. Typically, these lenses are used in high-capacity fiber optic communication networks to transmit light signals. But because of their miniature size and clarity, they may also allow for smartphones and other small portable devices to integrate video projection capabilities into their hardware design.

A limiting factor so far to such integration has been heat and power – current video projector components generate a lot of heat and use a lot of power. iPhone and Droid smartphones pack a lot of punch but are not yet capable of producing the amount of power required to run a projector module for much time, or deal with the amount of heat that rapidly builds up.

But the Alps’ lens technology could start to change that. The recently announced Alps’ lens (the FLGS3) is not only tiny but also transmits light extremely efficiently. Technically speaking, it has a high coupling efficiency of 73% – 5% more efficient than previous lenses. At the end of the day, this improvement in efficiency means that less light is required to achieve the same projector brightness – and less light of course means less power required and less heat generated.

Whether we actually see the integration of a video projector into a smartphone anytime soon remains to be seen. But certainly this innovation in lens design is bound to effect the size and battery life of dedicated miniature video projectors and other consumer devices.

Miniature Aspherical Glass Lens

LG Portable Video Projector

The HS201 Portable LED Projector from LG is a slim, innovative video projector that projects beautiful image quality. The highly efficient LED light source also lasts up to 30,000 hours and consumes very little power. LED light sources are noted for their deep color-saturation and wide color-range – superior to traditional projector lamps. The LED light source pulses at a super high rate eliminating motion blur. The HS201 is also super portable and easy to carry. Weighing in at a mere 1.7 pounds and 2.0 x 4.6 x 6.1 inches, this model is slim and perfect for business travel. For under $500, its hard to beat this lamp-free LED video projector by LG.

Features

• HDMI Input
• Auto Power-Off extends bulb life and saves energy
• Precise color management
• Movie Player and Photo Player via USB cable – play your media off of a USB thumb drive!
• Mercury Free!

What’s in the Box

Remote Control and included CR2032 3V battery, User Manual, Power Cable and Adaptor, RBG cable and RGB to Component converter

MPro120 Pocket Projector

The MPro120 Pocket Projector is a battery-operated handheld projector. The MPro 120 can project images and videos on most wall surfaces. Perfect for business presentation, images can be displayed from computers, netbooks or MP3 players, iPods, iPhone and digital cameras. The projected image ranges from 8 feet to 50 feet. The projector has built-in speakers and the LED projector light lasts 20,000 hours and provides up to 12 lumens of brightness. The battery is strong enough to watch a feature length film and lasts from 2-4 hours. It fits in your pocket.

Features

• Connect to your computer, iPod, iPhone, and other devices with video out
• Show business presentations, videos, pictures
• Comes with built-in speakers
• 2-4 hours of battery life
• Comes with a battery, AC adapter/charger, cables, tripod and a 1 year warranty
• Up to 50 foot display in optimal lighting

What’s in the Box
Rechargeable Battery , Power Adapter, Video Cable, Computer Cable, Table Top Tripod

SixthSense involves a wearable video projector that facilitates compelling interactions with our environment. In this TED video, Pattie Maes presents the technology invented by Pranav Mistry in her lab at MIT.

At the MIT Media Lab’s new Fluid Interfaces Group, Pattie Maes researches the tools we use to work with information and connect with one another.

Pranav Mistry is the creator of SixthSense, a wearable video device that enables new interactions between the real world and the data-sphere.

The Optoma’s PK201 Pico pocket projector is a cool little projector that is ideal for business presentations or sharing photos and videos with friends. The handheld DLP projector produces a powerful 20 lumens and and projects in 16:9 WVGA widescreen resolution. The projector has amini HDMI port making it easy to connect to almost any device.

Features

• Has a MicroSD slot for 16 GB of additional memory expansion
• Up to 66 foot projection
• Energy efficient LED projector lasts 20,000 hours
• Connects to most video sources: USB, VGA, HDMI, etc.

What’s in the Box

Rechargeable Battery, Power Adapter, USB Cable, Standard A/V Cable (RCA to Mini-Jack), Universal to VGA Cable, Carrying Case