PROJECTION DEVICE AND HANGER SUPPORT THEREOF

A projection device includes a hanger support and a projector connected to the hanger support and configured to project audio/video/image contents. The hanger support includes a coupling portion, a supporting arm, and a main body. The coupling portion is configured to connect to a track for receiving power from the track. The supporting arm is connected to the coupling portion. The main body is connected to the supporting arm.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a projection device and a hanger support thereof, and more particularly to a projection device and a hanger support thereof, having a coupling portion for connection to a track.

Description of the Related Art

Projection devices can be installed in different ways for use. An example of installation is to suspend a projection device from a ceiling, wherein a hanger support fixed to the ceiling in advance and a power outlet mounted on the ceiling for the projection device to use are required. Although a projection device suspended from a ceiling occupies reduced space, the installation of the projection device is complicated and inconvenient. Besides, the power outlet and the power cable create an adverse visual impact on the ceiling. Generally, an image projected by the conventional projection device is rectangular and has a horizontal side longer than a vertical side. On some occasions, however, an image projected by the conventional projection device having a horizontal side shorter than a vertical side is required. Therefore, a conventional projection device and the hanger support thereof fail to meet all the requirements.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a projection device and a hanger support thereof to solve the described problems. The projection device of the invention is configured to be connected to a track which is capable of providing power for a track light. By this arrangement, the power required by the projection device is also provided by the track. It is not necessary to change the existing cable arrangement and space design in the ceiling in the installation of the projection device. Therefore, the installation of a projection device is significantly simplified. Also, the application of a projection device is diversified. The projection device is able to project a rectangular image having a horizontal side longer or shorter than a vertical side, in accordance with the use situations or requirements.

The hanger support in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a coupling portion, a supporting arm, and a main body. The coupling portion is configured to connect to a track for receiving power from the track. The supporting arm is connected to the coupling portion. The main body is connected to the supporting arm.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a first rotatable element connected to the coupling portion wherein the first rotatable element comprises a reception hole connected to the supporting arm, and the first rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the supporting arm, move the main body, and change a position of the main body.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a second rotatable element connected to the supporting arm and the main body wherein the second rotatable element is rotatable to move the main body and change a position of the main body.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a reflector connected to the main body.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a third rotatable element and a reflector wherein the third rotatable element connected to the main body and the reflector, and the third rotatable element is rotatable to adjust a position of the reflector.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes an AC-DC converter disposed in the coupling portion, wherein the power from the track is AC power and the AC-DC converter is configured to convert the AC power to DC power.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes an AC-DC converter disposed in the main body, wherein the power from the track is AC power and the AC-DC converter is configured to convert the AC power to DC power.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a housing connected to the main body.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a first rotatable element, a second rotatable element, a third rotatable element, a reflector, an AC-DC converter, a housing, and a light source. The first rotatable element is connected to the coupling portion wherein the first rotatable element comprises a reception hole connected to the supporting arm, and the first rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the supporting arm, move the main body, and change a position of the main body. The second rotatable element is connected to the supporting arm and the main body wherein the second rotatable element is rotatable to move the main body and change the position of the main body. The third rotatable element is connected to the main body. The reflector is connected to the third rotatable element, wherein the third rotatable element is rotatable to adjust a position of the reflector. The AC-DC converter is disposed in the coupling portion, wherein the power from the track is AC power and the AC-DC converter is configured to convert the AC power to DC power. The housing is connected to the main body. The light source is connected to the housing.

The invention also provides a projection device. The projection device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention includes the above hanger support and a projector connected to the hanger support and configured to project audio/video/image contents.

In another exemplary embodiment, the projection device further includes a receiver and a multimedia capturing device connected to the projector, wherein the receiver is configured to receive a multimedia signal, the projector is configured to project audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal, and the multimedia capturing device is configured to record a surrounding video, image and sound and transmit the recorded surrounding video, image and sound to a far-end device via a cable network or a wireless network.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a balance arm connected to the coupling portion.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a first rotatable element, a top mount, a second rotatable element, a third rotatable element, a reflector, an AC-DC converter, and a housing. The first rotatable element is connected to the coupling portion wherein the first rotatable element comprises two reception holes connected to the supporting arm and the balance arm, and the first rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the supporting arm and the balance arm, move the main body, and change a position of the main body. The top mount is connected to the balance arm and configured to be rotated to adjust a length of the top mount protruding from the balance arm. The second rotatable element is connected to the supporting arm and the main body wherein the second rotatable element is rotatable to move the main body and change the position of the main body. The third rotatable element is connected to the main body. The reflector is connected to the third rotatable element, wherein the third rotatable element is rotatable to adjust a position of the reflector. The AC-DC converter is disposed in the coupling portion, wherein the power from the track is AC power and the AC-DC converter is configured to convert the AC power to DC power. The housing is connected to the main body.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support includes a coupling portion, a first rotatable element, an engaging assembly, and a main body. The coupling portion is configured to connect to a track for receiving power from the track. The main body includes a top groove, a right groove, a left groove, and a rear groove, all of which comprise curved bottoms. The first rotatable element is connected to the coupling portion and the engaging assembly. The engaging assembly is connected to one of the top groove, the right groove, the left groove, and the rear groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the top groove when connected to the top groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the right groove when connected to the right groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the left groove when connected to the left groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the rear groove when connected to the rear groove. The first rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the main body.

In another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support includes a coupling portion, a first rotatable element, a supporting arm, a second rotatable element, an engaging assembly, and a main body. The coupling portion is configured to connect to a track for receiving power from the track. The first rotatable element is connected to the coupling element. The supporting arm is connected to the first rotatable element. The second rotatable element is connected to the supporting arm. The engaging assembly is connected to the second rotatable element. The main body includes a top groove, a right groove, a left groove, and a rear groove, all of which comprise curved bottoms. The engaging assembly is connected to one of the top groove, the right groove, the left groove, and the rear groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the top groove when connected to the top groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the right groove when connected to the right groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the left groove when connected to the left groove. The engaging assembly is configured to slide along the rear groove when connected to the rear groove. The first rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the main body. The second rotatable element is rotatable to rotate the main body.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the hanger support further includes a balance arm and a top mount wherein the top mount connects to the balance arm, the top mount is configured to be rotated to adjust a length of the top mount protruding from the balance arm, and the first rotatable element comprises two reception holes connected to the supporting arm and the balance arm.

In another exemplary embodiment, the projection device includes the above hanger support and a projector connected to the hanger support and configured to project audio/video/image contents.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the projection device further includes a receiver and a multimedia capturing device connected to the projector, wherein the receiver is configured to receive a multimedia signal, the projector is configured to project audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal, and the multimedia capturing device is configured to record a surrounding video, image and sound and transmit the recorded surrounding video, image and sound to a far-end device via a cable network or a wireless network.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Some commercial spaces are provided with track lights for projecting light to target objects. The target objects may be wall pictures, poster billboards, floor sculptures, etc. Generally, a track light is connected to a track and the track is connected to or suspended from a ceiling for providing the track light with power. In the invention, a projection device is connected to a track of a track light, receives power from the track, and projects audio/video/image contents. Where the audio/video/image contents are projected can be adjusted by a hanger support.

FIG. 1depicts a hanger support in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support100includes a coupling portion10, an alternating current to direct current converter (hereinafter AC-DC converter)11, a first rotatable element20, a supporting arm30, a second rotatable element40, a main body50, a third rotatable element60, a reflector mount70, and a reflector71. The first rotatable element20includes reception holes21and22. The second rotatable element40(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball41, a stud42, and a socket43. The third rotatable element60(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball61, a stud62, and a socket63. The AC-DC converter11is disposed in the coupling portion10. The first rotatable element20is connected to the coupling portion10. The supporting arm30has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole21and the second rotatable element40. The second rotatable element40is connected to the main body50. The reflector71is disposed on the reflector mount70. The reflector mount70is connected to the third rotatable element60. The third rotatable element60is connected to the main body50.

To use the hanger support100, the coupling portion10is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support100is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion10is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion10to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion10receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter11disposed in the coupling portion10for other devices to use. The first rotatable element20is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arm30, move the main body50, and change the position of the main body50in three-dimensional space. The ball41can be rotated with respect to the socket43to rotate the stud42. Therefore, the main body50connected to the stud42can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the ball41. The ball61can be rotated with respect to the socket63to rotate the stud62. Therefore, the reflector mount70connected to the stud62can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the ball61, to rotate the reflector71.

FIG. 2depicts a hanger support in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support200includes a coupling portion110, an AC-DC converter111, a first rotatable element120, a supporting arm130, a second rotatable element140, a main body150, a third rotatable element160, a reflector mount170, a reflector171, and a housing180. The first rotatable element120includes reception holes121and122. The second rotatable element140(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball141, a stud142, and a socket143. The third rotatable element160(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball161, a stud162, and a socket163. The housing180has an opening181. The AC-DC converter111is disposed in the coupling portion110. The first rotatable element120is connected to the coupling portion110. The supporting arm130has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole121and the second rotatable element140. The second rotatable element140is connected to the main body150. The reflector171is disposed on the reflector mount170. The reflector mount170is connected to the third rotatable element160. The third rotatable element160is connected to the main body150. The housing180houses the main body150.

To use the hanger support200, the coupling portion110is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support200is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion110is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion110to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion110receives the AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter111disposed in the coupling portion110for other devices to use. The first rotatable element120is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arm130, move the main body150, and change the position of the main body150in three-dimensional space. The ball141can be rotated with respect to the socket143to rotate the stud142. Therefore, the main body150connected to the stud142can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the ball141. The ball161can be rotated with respect to the socket163to rotate the stud162. Therefore, the reflector mount170connected to the stud162can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the stud162, to rotate the reflector171.

FIG. 3depicts a hanger support in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support300includes a coupling portion210, an AC-DC converter211, a first rotatable element220, a supporting arm230, a second rotatable element240, a main body250, a third rotatable element260, a reflector mount270, a reflector271, a housing280, and a light source290. The first rotatable element220includes reception holes221and222. The second rotatable element240(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball241, a stud242, and a socket243. The third rotatable element260(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball261, a stud262, and a socket263. The housing280has an opening281. The AC-DC converter211is disposed in the coupling portion210. The first rotatable element220is connected to the coupling portion210. The supporting arm230has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole221and the second rotatable element240. The second rotatable element240is connected to the main body250. The reflector271is disposed on the reflector mount270. The reflector mount270is connected to the third rotatable element260. The third rotatable element260is connected to the main body250. The housing280houses the main body250. The light source290is disposed in the housing280.

To use the hanger support300, the coupling portion210is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support300is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion210is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion210to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion210receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter211disposed in the coupling portion210for the light source290and other devices to use. The first rotatable element220is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arm230, move the main body250, and change the position of the main body250in three-dimensional space. The ball241can be rotated with respect to the socket243to rotate the stud242. Therefore, the main body250connected to the stud242can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the ball241. The ball261can be rotated with respect to the socket263to rotate the stud262. Therefore, the reflector mount270connected to the stud262can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the ball261, to rotate the reflector271. The light source290is configured to provide illumination.

FIG. 4depicts a hanger support in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support400includes a coupling portion310, an AC-DC converter311, a first rotatable element320, a supporting arm331, a second rotatable element341, a main body351, a third rotatable element361, a reflector mount371, a reflector373, a supporting arm332, a fourth rotatable element342, a main body352, a fifth rotatable element362, a reflector mount372, and a reflector374. The first rotatable element320includes reception holes321and322. The second rotatable element341(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball343, a stud345, and a socket347. The third rotatable element361(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball363, a stud365, and a socket367. The fourth rotatable element342(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball344, a stud346, and a socket348. The fifth rotatable element362(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball364, a stud366, and a socket368. The AC-DC converter311is disposed in the coupling portion310. The first rotatable element320is connected to the coupling portion310. The supporting arm331has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole321and the second rotatable element341. The second rotatable element341is connected to the main body351. The reflector373is disposed on the reflector mount371. The reflector mount371is connected to the third rotatable element361. The third rotatable element361is connected to the main body351. The supporting arm332has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole322and the fourth rotatable element342. The fourth rotatable element342is connected to the main body352. The reflector374is disposed on the reflector mount372. The reflector mount372is connected to the fifth rotatable element362. The fifth rotatable element362is connected to the main body352.

To use the hanger support400, the coupling portion310is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support400is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion310is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion310to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion310receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter311disposed in the coupling portion310for other devices to use. The first rotatable element320is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arms331and332, move the main bodies351and352, and change the positions of the main bodies351and352in three-dimensional space. The balls343and344can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets347and348to rotate the studs345and346. Therefore, the main bodies351and352respectively connected to the studs345and346can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the balls343and344. The balls363and364can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets367and368to rotate the studs365and366. Therefore, the reflector mounts371and372connected to the studs365and366can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the balls363and364, to rotate the reflectors373and374.

FIG. 5depicts a hanger support in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support500includes a coupling portion410, an AC-DC converter411, a first rotatable element420, a supporting arm431, a second rotatable element441, a main body451, a third rotatable element461, a reflector mount471, a reflector473, a housing481, a supporting arm432, a fourth rotatable element442, a main body452, a fifth rotatable element462, a reflector mount472, a reflector474, and a housing482. The first rotatable element420includes reception holes421and422. The second rotatable element441(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball443, a stud445, and a socket447. The third rotatable element461(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball463, a stud465, and a socket467. The fourth rotatable element442(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball444, a stud446, and a socket448. The fifth rotatable element462(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball464, a stud466, and a socket468. The housing481has an opening483. The housing482has an opening484. The AC-DC converter411is disposed in the coupling portion410. The first rotatable element420is connected to the coupling portion410. The supporting arm431has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole421and the second rotatable element441. The second rotatable element441is connected to the main body451. The reflector473is disposed on the reflector mount471. The reflector mount471is connected to the third rotatable element461. The third rotatable element461is connected to the main body451. The supporting arm432has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole422and the fourth rotatable element442. The fourth rotatable element442is connected to the main body452. The reflector474is disposed on the reflector mount472. The reflector mount472is connected to the fifth rotatable element462. The fifth rotatable element462is connected to the main body452. The housing481houses the main body451. The housing482houses the main body452.

To use the hanger support500, the coupling portion410is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support500is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion410is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion410to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion410receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter411disposed in the coupling portion410for other devices to use. The first rotatable element420is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arms431and432, move the main bodies451and452, and change the positions of the main bodies451and452in three-dimensional space. The balls443and444can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets447and448to rotate the studs445and446. Therefore, the main bodies451and452respectively connected to the studs445and446can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the balls443and444. The balls463and464can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets467and468to rotate the studs465and466. Therefore, the reflector mounts471and472connected to the studs465and466can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the balls463and464, to rotate the reflectors473and474.

FIG. 6depicts a hanger support in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support600includes a coupling portion510, an AC-DC converter511, a first rotatable element520, a supporting arm531, a second rotatable element541, a main body551, a third rotatable element561, a reflector mount571, a reflector573, a housing581, a light source591, a supporting arm532, a fourth rotatable element542, a main body552, a fifth rotatable element562, a reflector mount572, a reflector574, a housing582, and a light source592. The first rotatable element520includes reception holes521and522. The second rotatable element541(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball543, a stud545, and a socket547. The third rotatable element561(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball563, a stud565, and a socket567. The fourth rotatable element542(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball544, a stud546, and a socket548. The fifth rotatable element562(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball564, a stud566, and a socket568. The housing581has an opening583. The housing582has an opening584. The light source591is disposed in the housing581. The light source592is disposed in the housing582. The AC-DC converter511is disposed in the coupling portion510. The first rotatable element520is connected to the coupling portion510. The supporting arm531has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole521and the second rotatable element541. The second rotatable element541is connected to the main body551. The reflector573is disposed on the reflector mount571. The reflector mount571is connected to the third rotatable element561. The third rotatable element561is connected to the main body551. The supporting arm532has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole522and the fourth rotatable element542. The fourth rotatable element542is connected to the main body552. The reflector574is disposed on the reflector mount572. The reflector mount572is connected to the fifth rotatable element562. The fifth rotatable element562is connected to the main body552. The housing581houses the main body551. The housing582houses the main body552. The light source591is disposed in the housing581. The light source592is disposed in the housing582.

To use the hanger support600, the coupling portion510is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support600is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion510is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion510to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion510receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter511disposed in the coupling portion510for the light sources591,592and other devices to use. The first rotatable element520is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arms531and532, move the main bodies551and552, and change the positions of the main bodies551and552in three-dimensional space. The balls543and544can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets547and548to rotate the studs545and546. Therefore, the main bodies551and552respectively connected to the studs545and546can be rotated in three-dimensional space by means of rotation of the balls543and544. The balls563and564can be respectively rotated with respect to the sockets567and568to rotate the studs565and566. Therefore, the reflector mounts571and572connected to the studs565and566can be rotated in three-dimensional space, by means of rotation of the balls563and564, to rotate the reflectors573and574. The light sources591and592are configured to provide illumination.

FIG. 7depicts a projection device in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device700includes a projector605and a hanger support. The hanger support includes a coupling portion610, an AC-DC converter611, a first rotatable element620, a supporting arm630, a second rotatable element640, a main body650, a third rotatable element660, a reflector mount670, a reflector671, a housing680, and a light source690. The first rotatable element620includes reception holes621and622. The second rotatable element640(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball641, a stud642, and a socket643. The third rotatable element660(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball661, a stud662, and a socket663. The housing680has an opening681. The AC-DC converter611is disposed in the coupling portion610. The first rotatable element620is connected to the coupling portion610. The supporting arm630has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole621and the second rotatable element640. The second rotatable element640is connected to the main body650. The reflector671is disposed on the reflector mount670. The reflector mount670is connected to the third rotatable element660. The third rotatable element660is connected to the main body650. The housing680houses the main body650. The light source690is disposed in the housing680. The projector605is fixed to the hanger support via a connection to the main body650.

To install the projection device700for use, the coupling portion610is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion610is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion610to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion610receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter611disposed in the coupling portion610for the projector605and the light source690to use. The projector605is capable of projecting audio/video/image contents (not shown) to the reflector671. The audio/video/image contents are reflected from the reflector671through the opening681of the housing680to a projection screen or a wall or any object surfaces. The location where the audio/video/image contents are projected is adjustable in accordance with user's requirements, by moving the hanger support along the track (not shown), rotating the first rotatable element620, or rotating the ball641or661. The light source690provides illumination after turned on.

FIG. 8depicts a projection device in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device800includes a projector705, a projector706, and a hanger support. The hanger support includes a coupling portion710, an AC-DC converter711, a first rotatable element720, a supporting arm731, a second rotatable element741, a main body751, a third rotatable element761, a reflector mount771, a reflector773, a housing781, a light source791, a supporting arm732, a fourth rotatable element742, a main body752, a fifth rotatable element762, a reflector mount772, a reflector774, a housing782, and a light source792. The first rotatable element720includes reception holes721and722. The second rotatable element741(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball743, a stud745, and a socket747. The third rotatable element761(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball763, a stud765, and a socket767. The fourth rotatable element742(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball744, a stud746, and a socket748. The fifth rotatable element762(for example, a cradle head of a tripod or a ball-and-socket joint) includes a ball764, a stud766, and a socket768. The housing781has an opening783. The housing782has an opening784. The light source791is disposed in the housing781. The light source792is disposed in the housing782. The AC-DC converter711is disposed in the coupling portion710. The first rotatable element720is connected to the coupling portion710. The supporting arm731has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole721and the second rotatable element741. The second rotatable element741is connected to the main body751. The reflector773is disposed on the reflector mount771. The reflector mount771is connected to the third rotatable element761. The third rotatable element761is connected to the main body751. The supporting arm732has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole722and the fourth rotatable element742. The fourth rotatable element742is connected to the main body752. The reflector774is disposed on the reflector mount772. The reflector mount772is connected to the fifth rotatable element762. The fifth rotatable element762is connected to the main body752. The housing781houses the main body751. The housing782houses the main body752. The light source791is disposed in the housing781. The light source792is disposed in the housing782. The projectors705and706are respectively fixed to the hanger supports via a connection to the main bodies751and752.

To install the projection device800for use, the coupling portion710is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion710is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion710to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion710receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter711disposed in the coupling portion710for the projectors705,706and the light sources791,792to use. The projectors705and706are capable of respectively projecting audio/video/image contents (not shown) to the reflectors773and774. The audio/video/image contents are reflected from the reflectors773and774respectively through the openings783and784of the housings781and782to a projection screen or a wall or any object surfaces. The locations where the audio/video/image contents are projected are adjustable in accordance with user's requirements. In this embodiment, the audio/video/image contents (not shown) can be projected onto different walls, projected on the same wall with one superposed or overlapped on the other, or projected onto the same wall with the edges thereof connected. When the audio/video/image contents are projected onto the same wall with the edges thereof connected, an enlarged picture is obtained without the requirement of increasing a distance between the projection device and the wall. The locations where the audio/video/image contents are projected can be adjusted by moving the hanger support along the track (not shown), rotating the first rotatable element720, or rotating the ball743,744,763, or764. The light sources791and792provide illumination after turned on.

It is understood that the first rotatable elements and the L-shaped supporting arms in the first, second, and third embodiments of the hanger supports can be respectively modified as a first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Aand a linear supporting arm, and the linear supporting arm is connected to a reception hole823of the first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Ain an installation of the hanger support. Alternatively, the first rotatable elements and the L-shaped supporting arms of the hanger supports in the first, second, and third embodiments can be respectively modified as a first rotatable element830ofFIG. 9Band a linear supporting arm, and the linear supporting arm is connected to a reception hole833of the first rotatable element830ofFIG. 9Bin an installation of the hanger support. Both of the modifications belong to the category of the invention.

As described, the supporting arm630is connected to the reception hole621of the first rotatable element620in the first embodiment of the projection device700. It is understood that the first rotatable element620and the L-shaped supporting arm630in the first embodiment of the projection device700can be respectively modified as the first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Aand a linear supporting arm, and the linear supporting arm is connected to the reception hole823of the first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Ain an installation of the projection device. Alternatively, the first rotatable element620and the L-shaped supporting arm630of the first embodiment of the projection device700can be respectively modified as the first rotatable element830ofFIG. 9Band a linear supporting arm, and the linear supporting arm is connected to the reception hole833of the first rotatable element830ofFIG. 9Bin an installation of the projection device. Both of the modifications belong to the category of the invention.

FIG. 10depicts a projection device in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device900includes a hanger support901, a projector905, a receiver9051, and a multimedia capturing device9052. The structure of the hanger support901is similar to that ofFIG. 1and the descriptions thereof are omitted. The projector905is fixed to the hanger support901via a connection to the main body of the hanger support901. The receiver9051and the multimedia capturing device9052are connected to the projector905. The receiver9051is configured to receive a multimedia signal for the projector905to project audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal. The multimedia capturing device9052is configured to record the surrounding videos, images and sounds and transmit the recorded videos, images and sounds to a far-end device (e.g. a control computer, not shown) via a cable network or a wireless network. The far-end device analyzes the received videos, images and sounds and generates proper videos, images and sounds. The receiver9051receives the proper images and sounds from the far-end device, for the projector905to project audio/video/image contents of the proper videos, images and sounds onto a projection screen S.

The projection device900can be used for producing a projection-mapping film and making a projection-mapping display. As shown inFIG. 10, an object O is attached to the projection screen S in advance. In operation, a device (e.g. control computer, not shown) transmits a multimedia signal to the receiver9051via a cable network or a wireless network. The audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are projected onto the projection screen S by the projector905. The multimedia capturing device9052captures audio/video/image contents from the projection screen S and transmits the captured audio/video/image contents to the device via a cable network or a wireless network. The device determines if the audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are correctly projected onto the projection screen S in accordance with the audio/video/image contents captured by the multimedia capturing device9052. If the location where the audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are projected onto the projection screen S is incorrect, then the device reedits the audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal and transmits the reedited audio/video/image contents to the receiver9051via the cable network or the wireless network. Then, the reedited audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are projected onto the projection screen S by the projector905. The multimedia capturing device9052captures audio/video/image contents from the projection screen S and transmits the captured audio/video/image contents to the device via a cable network or a wireless network. Again, the device determines if the audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are correctly projected onto the projection screen S in accordance with the audio/video/image contents captured by the multimedia capturing device9052. The above operations are repeated until the audio/video/image contents of the multimedia signal are correctly projected onto the projection screen S, thereby producing a projection-mapping film. Afterwards, the produced projection-mapping film can be projected onto the projection screen S by the projection device900to make a projection-mapping display which provides abundant, three-dimensional visual enjoyments for the viewers.

The projection device900can be further used for providing interactive advertising. As shown inFIG. 10, when a pedestrian (not shown) approaches the projection screen S, the multimedia capturing device9052captures an image and a sound from the pedestrian and transmits the image and sound to a device (e.g. control computer, not shown) via a cable network or a wireless network. The device identifies the pedestrian's characteristics including sex, age, face, dressing, carry-on articles, body movements, and conversation in accordance with the captured image and sound, and generates a special multimedia signal corresponding to the identification. The special multimedia signal is transmitted to the receiver9051through the cable network or wireless network. The audio/video/image contents of the special multimedia signal are projected onto the projection screen S by the projector905to draw the pedestrian's attentions, thereby increasing the possibility for the pedestrian to stop to watch advertisements and improving the effects of the advertisements. The multimedia capturing device9052continues to transmit the pedestrian's images and sounds to the device so that the device can update the special multimedia signal. Thus, the pedestrian is able to interact with the device by watching the audio/video/image contents of the special multimedia signal. As compared with normal advertising, such an interactive advertising provides the viewers with different experiences.

FIG. 11depicts a hanger support in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support1000of the seventh embodiment includes a balance arm1031and a top mount1032which are not included by the hanger support300of the third embodiment. The top mount1032includes a screw1033on the bottom thereof. The balance arm1031has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole1022and the screw1033of the top mount1032. The top mount1032is configured to push against a ceiling (not shown). The top mount1032is rotatable to rotate the screw1033so that the top mount1032can move along the opposite arrows A. Therefore, the length of the top mount1032protruding from the balance arm1031is adjustable. Other elements of the hanger support1000are similar with those of the hanger support300and the descriptions thereof are omitted. The structure of hanger support1000is asymmetric, wherein the elements on the left side of the first rotatable element1020are more than the elements on the right side of the first rotatable element1020. When the coupling portion1010of the hanger support1000is connected to a track (e.g. the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance, not shown), the hanger support1000tends to tilt with the supporting arm1030lowered and the balance arm1031raised because of the asymmetric structure (the elements on the left side exceed the elements on the right side in total weight). To solve this problem, the top mount1032pushing against the ceiling can be rotated to protrude more from the balance arm1031until the supporting arm1030and the balance arm1031are at the same height as shown inFIG. 11(i.e. the supporting arm1030is not lowered and the balance arm1031is not raised either).

FIG. 12depicts a projection device in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device1100of the fourth embodiment includes a balance arm1131and a top mount1132which are not included by the projection device700of the first embodiment. The top mount1132includes a screw1133on the bottom thereof. The balance arm1131has two ends respectively connected to the reception hole1122and the screw1133of the top mount1132. The top mount1132is configured to push against a ceiling (not shown). The top mount1132is rotatable to rotate the screw1133so that the top mount1132can move along the opposite arrows A. Therefore, the length of the top mount1132protruding from the balance arm1131is adjustable. Other elements of the projection device1100are similar with those of the projection device700and the descriptions thereof are omitted. The structure of projection device1100is asymmetric, wherein the elements on the left side of the first rotatable element1120are more than the elements on the right side of the first rotatable element1120. When the coupling portion1110of the projection device1100is connected to a track (e.g. the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance, not shown), the projection device1100tends to tilt with the supporting arm1130lowered and the balance arm1131raised because of the asymmetric structure (the elements on the left side exceed the elements on the right side in total weight). To solve this problem, the top mount1132pushing against the ceiling can be rotated to protrude more from the balance arm1131until the supporting arm1130and the balance arm1131are at the same height as shown inFIG. 12(i.e. the supporting arm1130is not lowered and the balance arm1131is not raised either).

It is understood that the projection device1100of the fourth embodiment can be modified to include a receiver and a multimedia capturing device both of which are connected to the projector. Such a modification belongs to the category of the invention.

The projection device of the invention has a coupling portion for connecting to a track, which facilitates an installation of the projection device, while an installation of a projection device through a conventional hanger support is complicated. Also, the invention is able to facilitate the cable arrangement and space design in the ceiling. In the invention, the track of a track light mounted on the ceiling in advance is utilized to install a projection device. Therefore, the installation of a projection device is simplified. Wall pictures and poster billboards can be replaced with the projection device of the invention to project images for exhibition. Changing the projected images is easier than changing the wall pictures and poster billboards. When images are projected by the projection device of the invention, the light source connected to the housing generates light to provide illumination.

FIG. 13depicts a hanger support in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support1200includes a coupling portion1210, an AC-DC converter1211, a first rotatable element1220, an engaging assembly1230, and a main body1240. The engaging assembly1230includes a right engaging element1231, a left engaging element1232, a fixing screw1233, an adjusting screw1234, and a bracket1235. The main body1240includes an upper cover1241and a lower cover1242. An upper groove1243is formed on the upper cover1241. A right groove1244, a left groove (not shown), a rear groove (not shown), and an opening1247are formed on the edges of the upper cover1241and the lower cover1242which are joined. The AC-DC converter1211is disposed in the coupling portion1210. The first rotatable element1220is connected to the coupling portion1210. The bracket1235is connected to the first rotatable element1220. The right engaging element1231and a left engaging element1232are connected to the bracket1235through the fixing screw1233. The adjusting screw1234connects the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232. The opening1247is configured to allow light in the main body to pass through.

To use the hanger support1200, the coupling portion1210is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support1200is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion1210is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion1210to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion1210receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter1211disposed in the coupling portion1210for other devices to use. The first rotatable element1220is rotatable about an axis C′ to rotate the main body1240. The adjusting screw1234is rotatable to adjust the distance between the bottoms of the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232, so that the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232can be engaged with or separated from the upper groove1243. Also, the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232can be slid along the upper groove1243. Because the upper groove1243is curved on the bottom thereof, the angle of inclination of the main body1240can be adjusted when the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232are slid along the upper groove1243. The opening1247is configured to allow light in the main body1240to pass through. When a projector (not shown) is disposed in the main body1240, light projected by the projector is able to exit from the main body1240through the opening1247, and the projection angle of the projector is adjustable by sliding the right engaging element1231and the left engaging element1232along the upper groove1243.

FIG. 14depicts a hanger support in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the invention, wherein the hanger support1300includes a coupling portion1310, an AC-DC converter1311, a first rotatable element1320, a supporting arm1330, a balance arm1331, a top mount1332, a fixing mount1334, a second rotatable element1340, an engaging assembly1350, and a main body1360. The first rotatable element1320includes a reception hole1321and a reception hole1322. The top mount1332includes a screw1333. The engaging assembly1350includes a right engaging element1351, a left engaging element1352, a fixing screw1353, an adjusting screw1354, and a bracket1355. The main body1360includes an upper cover1361and a lower cover1362. An upper groove1363is formed on the upper cover1361. A right groove1364, a left groove (not shown), a rear groove (not shown), and an opening1367are formed on the edges of the upper cover1361and the lower cover1362which are joined. The AC-DC converter1311is disposed in the coupling portion1310. The first rotatable element1320is connected to the coupling portion1310. The supporting arm1330has two ends connected to the reception hole1321and the fixing mount1334. The fixing mount1334is connected to the second rotatable element1340. The second rotatable element1340is connected to the bracket1355. The right engaging element1351and a left engaging element1352are connected to the bracket1355through the fixing screw1353. The adjusting screw1354connects the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352. The balance arm1331has two ends connected to the reception hole1322and the screw1333of the top mount1332. The top mount1332is configured to push against a ceiling (not shown).

To use the hanger support1300, the coupling portion1310is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The hanger support1300is movable along the track (not shown) to change the location thereof in three-dimensional space in accordance with the requirements. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion1310is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion1310to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion1310receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter1311disposed in the coupling portion1310for other devices to use. The first rotatable element1320is rotatable about an axis C to rotate the supporting arm1330and the balance arm1331, move the main body1360, and change the position of the main body1360in three-dimensional space. The second rotatable element1340is rotatable about an axis C′ to rotate the main body1360. The structure of hanger support1300is asymmetric, wherein the elements on the left side of the first rotatable element1320are more than the elements on the right side of the first rotatable element1320. The hanger support1300tends to tilt with the supporting arm1330lowered and the balance arm1331raised because of the asymmetric structure (the elements on the left side exceed the elements on the right side in total weight). To solve this problem, the top mount1332pushing against the ceiling can be rotated to rotate the screw1333so that the top mount1332can move along the opposite arrows A. Therefore, the length of the top mount1332protruding from the balance arm1331is adjustable. By this arrangement, the top mount1332pushing against the ceiling can be rotated to protrude more from the balance arm1331until the supporting arm1330and the balance arm1331are at the same height as shown inFIG. 14(i.e. the supporting arm1330is not lowered and the balance arm1331is not raised either). The adjusting screw1354is rotatable to adjust the distance between the bottoms of the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352, so that the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352can be engaged with or separated from the upper groove1363. Also, the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352can be slid along the upper groove1363. Because the upper groove1363is curved on the bottom thereof, the angle of inclination of the main body1360can be adjusted when the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352are slid along the upper groove1363. The opening1367is configured to allow light in the main body1360to pass through. When a projector (not shown) is disposed in the main body1360, light projected by the projector is able to exit from the main body1360through the opening1367, and the projection angle of the projector is adjustable by sliding the right engaging element1351and the left engaging element1352along the upper groove1363.

FIG. 15depicts a projection device in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device1400includes a projector (not shown) and a hanger support1401. The structure of the hanger support1401is similar with that of the hanger support1200ofFIG. 13and the descriptions thereof are omitted. The projector is disposed in the main body1440and fixed to the hanger support1401.

To install the projection device1400for use, the coupling portion1410is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion1410is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion1410to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion1410receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter1411disposed in the coupling portion1410for the projector (not shown) to use. The projector is able to project light1451which contains audio/video/image contents, through the opening1447, to a projection screen or a wall or surfaces of other objects, wherein the projected audio/video/image contents are rectangular and have a horizontal side longer than a vertical side. The location where the light1451containing the audio/video/image contents are projected is adjustable, in accordance with user's requirements, by moving the hanger support1401along the track (not shown), rotating the first rotatable element1420about an axis C′, and sliding the right engaging element1431and the left engaging element1432along the upper groove1443.

FIG. 16depicts a projection device in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection device1500includes a projector (not shown) and a hanger support1501. The structure of the hanger support1501is similar with that of the hanger support1300ofFIG. 14and the descriptions thereof are omitted. The projector is disposed in the main body1560and fixed to the hanger support1501.

To install the projection device1500for use, the coupling portion1510is connected to a track (not shown) which is, for example, the track of a track light fixed to or suspended from a ceiling in advance. The track (not shown) is capable of providing AC power. Thus, the coupling portion1510is capable of receiving AC power from the track (not shown) through a connection of the coupling portion1510to the track (not shown). In operation, the coupling portion1510receives AC power from the track (not shown) and the AC power is converted to DC power by the AC-DC converter1511disposed in the coupling portion1510for the projector (not shown) to use. The structure of the projection device1500is asymmetric. The hanger support1501tends to tilt with the supporting arm1530lowered and the balance arm1531raised because of the asymmetric structure (the elements on the left side exceed the elements on the right side in total weight). To solve this problem, the top mount1532can be rotated to rotate the screw1533so that the top mount1532can move along the opposite arrows A. Therefore, the length of the top mount1532protruding from the balance arm1531is adjustable. By this arrangement, the top mount1532pushing against the ceiling can be rotated to protrude more from the balance arm1531until the supporting arm1530and the balance arm1531are at the same height as shown inFIG. 16(i.e. the supporting arm1530is not lowered and the balance arm1531is not raised either). The projector is able to project light1571which contains audio/video/image contents, through the opening1567, to a projection screen or a wall or surfaces of other objects, wherein the projected audio/video/image contents are rectangular and have a horizontal side longer than a vertical side. The location where the light1571containing the audio/video/image contents is projected is adjustable, in accordance with user's requirements, by moving the hanger support1501along the track (not shown), rotating the first rotatable element1520about an axis C, rotating the second rotatable element1540about an axis C′, and sliding the right engaging element1551and the left engaging element1552along the upper groove1563.

FIG. 17depicts a projection device in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention, wherein the structure of the projection device1600is similar with that of the projection device1500ofFIG. 16and the descriptions thereof are omitted.FIG. 17differs fromFIG. 16in that the location where the right engaging element and the left engaging element are connected to the main body is changed. InFIG. 17, the right engaging element1651and the left engaging element1652are connected to the rear groove1666of the main body1660so that the light1671containing the audio/video/image contents is projected downwards. It is noted that the projected audio/video/image contents are rectangular and still have a horizontal side longer than a vertical side. InFIG. 16, the right engaging element1551and the left engaging element1552are connected to the upper groove1563of the main body1560so that the light1571containing the audio/video/image contents is projected to leave the plane ofFIG. 16.

FIG. 18depicts a projection device in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the invention, wherein the structure of the projection device1700is similar with that of the projection device1500ofFIG. 16and the descriptions thereof are omitted.FIG. 18differs fromFIG. 16at the location where the right engaging element and the left engaging element are connected to the main body. InFIG. 18, the right engaging element1751and the left engaging element1752are connected to the right groove1764of the main body1760so that the light1771containing the audio/video/image contents is projected toward the right. It is noted that the projected audio/video/image contents are still rectangular but have a horizontal side shorter than a vertical side. InFIG. 16, the right engaging element1551and the left engaging element1552are connected to the upper groove1563of the main body1560so that the light1571containing the audio/video/image contents is projected to leave the plane ofFIG. 16.

FIG. 19depicts a projection device in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the invention, wherein the structure of the projection device1800is similar with that of the projection device1500ofFIG. 16and the descriptions thereof are omitted.FIG. 19differs fromFIG. 16in that the location where the right engaging element and the left engaging element are connected to the main body is changed. InFIG. 19, the right engaging element1851and the left engaging element1852are connected to the left groove1865of the main body1860so that the light1871containing the audio/video/image contents is projected toward the left ofFIG. 19. It is noted that the projected audio/video/image contents are still rectangular but have a horizontal side shorter than a vertical side. InFIG. 16, the right engaging element1551and the left engaging element1552are connected to the upper groove1563of the main body1560so that the light1571containing the multimedia images is projected to leave the plane ofFIG. 16.

It is understood that the first rotatable element1320and the L-shaped supporting arm1330of the hanger support1300in the ninth embodiment can be respectively modified as a first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Aand a linear supporting arm (not shown), and the linear supporting arm has two ends connected to the reception hole823of the first rotatable element820ofFIG. 9Aand the second rotational element1340. Such modification belongs to the category of the invention.

It is understood that the housings connected to the main bodies in the above embodiments may be modified to have different shapes so that the projection devices have different appearances. Such modifications belong to the category of the invention.

It is understood that the projection devices of the above embodiments may be modified to include a receiver and a multimedia capturing device connected to the projectors. Such modifications belong to the category of the invention.