Abstract: Projector bulb life is managed to achieve desired performance parameters, such as a maximum life mode or maximum brightness mode, by sensing bulb luminance and applied the sensed luminance with a luminance feedback controller to drive the bulb to achieve the desired performance parameter. For instance, in maximum life mode the luminance feedback controller reduces power applied to the bulb to restrict bulb luminance to a maximum luminance setpoint when greater luminance is available with a newer bulb. In maximum brightness mode, the luminance feedback controller increases power applied to the bulb to increase bulb luminance if the sensor senses luminance below a threshold due bulb wear. Bulb life management improves project image illumination to display information in a variety of projector types, including digital mirror devices and liquid crystal displays.

Abstract: A lens cap position sensor detects covering of a projector display lamp lens by a lens cap and reduces or disables illumination from the display lamp to prevent melting of the lens cap. For instance, electrical contacts associated with the lens cap complete a circuit when in contact with a conductive portion of the housing of the projector due to insertion of the lens cap over the lens, the completed circuit signaling an illumination controller of the projector to turn off the lamp or illuminate dark colors. Alternatively, a light sensor, such as an infrared sensor located on the inner surface of the lens cap, detects illumination from the lamp to sense insertion of the lens cap over the lens and to signal the illumination controller to turn off the lamp. In one embodiment, lens cap position signals are sent from the lens cap to the illumination controller through wires that secure the lens cap to the projector.

Abstract: A lens cap position sensor detects covering of a projector display lamp lens by a lens cap and reduces or disables illumination from the display lamp to prevent melting of the lens cap. For instance, electrical contacts associated with the lens cap complete a circuit when in contact with a conductive portion of the housing of the projector due to insertion of the lens cap over the lens, the completed circuit signaling an illumination controller of the projector to turn off the lamp or illuminate dark colors. Alternatively, a light sensor, such as an infrared sensor located on the inner surface of the lens cap, detects illumination from the lamp to sense insertion of the lens cap over the lens and to signal the illumination controller to turn off the lamp. In one embodiment, lens cap position signals are sent from the lens cap to the illumination controller through wires that secure the lens cap to the projector.