Projector with the greatest projection angle

In summary, the limitation for film projectors with wide projection angles is the brightness of the source, which can approach damage thresholds of the film stock. However, newer direct projection technologies, such as the TI micro-mirror based technology, may be able to overcome this issue. While there are fish-eye designs that cover close to 180 degrees, IMAX theaters that cover a hemisphere use multiple projectors. Using LED light instead of incandescent sources may solve the problem, but LED brightness is not comparable to arc sources. There are also potential solutions involving filters and concentrated LED light.
  • #1
SAZAR
205
0
A bit about optics. I was wondering what is the film (slide, or motion picture) projector with the widest projection angle. What are the current limitations?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The limitation is on the source brightness; as the projection field increases, the lamp must be brighter and brighter, which approaches damage thresholds of the film stock. Possibly the newer direct projection technologies (like the TI micro-mirror based technology) can overcome this. The problem is not really the optics: there are lots of fish-eye designs that cover close to 180 degrees field of view.

There are IMAX theaters that cover a hemisphere, but those use multiple projector system, AFAIK.
 
  • #3
Hmm... But, if projectors were using LED light instead of incandescent source, it could solve the problem, right?
 
  • #4
LED brightness does not come anywhere near close to arc sources.
 
  • #5
Quote:
"There are IMAX theaters that cover a hemisphere, but those use multiple projector system, AFAIK. "

It would be nice to have one unit which projects upwards and covers even more than half of sphere (some 15m diameter or greater)...

Incandescent light bulbs create more useless wavelengths (infrared) than visible light (somewhere they say that 90% is wasted on heat) - maybe the heat problem in projectors could be solved with filters which pass only visible light to film?

I like those micromirrors projectors... LED technology...

Maybe it's not much of a problem to make even larger surface - based on LED semi-conductors technology, but spread on a greater surface - tightly packed -- that could create strong light...

On the other hand - simple white LEDs could be spread on wide rectangular surface, and then their light could be concentrated on a film with some lenses - right? Hmm, I wonder how large surface would be needed for cinemas?
 

1. What is the greatest projection angle of the projector?

The greatest projection angle of a projector refers to the maximum angle at which the projector can project an image onto a surface. This angle can vary depending on the specific model and can range from 90 degrees to over 180 degrees.

2. How does the projection angle affect the image quality?

The projection angle can have a significant impact on the image quality of a projector. A wider projection angle allows for a larger image to be displayed, but may result in distortion or reduced sharpness at the edges. A smaller projection angle may produce a more focused and clear image, but with a smaller size.

3. Can the projection angle be adjusted?

In most projectors, the projection angle can be adjusted manually by tilting or angling the projector itself, or through digital keystone correction. However, some projectors may have limitations on the range of angles that can be adjusted.

4. What types of surfaces can a projector with a wide projection angle project onto?

A projector with a wide projection angle can project onto a variety of surfaces, including flat walls, curved screens, and even uneven or angled surfaces. However, the image quality may be affected by the texture and color of the surface, so a smooth and neutral-colored surface is ideal.

5. Is a wide projection angle important for all types of projections?

The importance of a wide projection angle depends on the specific use of the projector. For presentations or movies, a wider angle may provide a more immersive experience. However, for precise and detailed projections, such as in scientific or technical applications, a smaller and more focused projection angle may be preferred.

Similar threads

I Reverse Projector: New Tech for Immersive Video Experience
    • Classical Physics
Replies
15
Views
797
B Visit to Hayden Planaterium -- The projector is gone?
    • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
946
B Can someone explain this projection distortion effect
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
5
Views
1K
Building a small pattern projector
    • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Why Is There a Black Line Moving Across the Screen?
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
6
Views
5K
Need to Refocus Projected Image Through Microscope Objective
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
4
Views
2K
I How to calculate focal length?
    • Optics
Replies
8
Views
2K
Optical Simple optical lens design help (small projector)
    • DIY Projects
Replies
10
Views
3K
Determining the brightness on a projected surface
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Imaging optics and lowest possible angle video projection?
    • Optics
Replies
3
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top