Control method of a projector and display system

Abstract

Control method of projector and display system. It is possible to visually display adjustment content of projection area of each of first image and second image. In the control method of projector (100), at least one of first projector (100A) and second projector (100B) receives an instruction to move projection area of first image (PA) from first area (R1) to third area (R3) and to move projection area of second image (PB) from second area (R2) to fourth area (R4), and in a case where the instruction is received, first projector (100A) moves first image (PA) from first area (R1) to third area (R3) at first moving speed (V1), and second projector (100B) moves second image (PB) from second area (R2) to fourth area (R4) at second moving speed (V2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a control method for a projector and a display system. Background Technology

[0002] There are known techniques for projecting a single image using multiple projectors (e.g., see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent document 1 describes a technique for projecting one image using multiple projectors, and describes techniques for adjusting the rotation and parallel movement of the projected image by each projector.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-169204

[0005] In several projectors described in Patent Document 1, when adjusting the projection area, the path from the original projection area to the new projection area cannot be seen. Therefore, the user may not be able to confirm the content of the projection area adjustment. As a result, there is a possibility of reduced user convenience. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a method for controlling a projector, comprising: a first projector projecting a first image onto a first region of a projection surface; a second projector projecting a second image onto a second region of the projection surface; receiving an instruction to move the projection region of the first image from the first region to a third region and to move the projection region of the second image from the second region to a fourth region; and, upon receiving the instruction, the first projector moving the first image from the first region to the third region at a first moving speed, the second projector moving the second image from the second region to the fourth region at a second moving speed, and displaying one image of the first image projected onto the third region and the second image projected onto the fourth region.

[0007] Another aspect of the display system of the present invention includes: a first projector; and a second projector, the first projector projecting a first image onto a first region of a projection surface, the second projector projecting a second image onto a second region of the projection surface, at least one of the first and second projectors receiving an instruction to move the projection region of the first image from the first region to a third region and to move the projection region of the second image from the second region to a fourth region, and upon receiving the instruction, the first projector moving the first image from the first region to the third region at a first moving speed, and the second projector moving the second image from the second region to the fourth region at a second moving speed, the first image projected onto the third region and the second image projected onto the fourth region displaying one image. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the display system according to this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the projector according to this embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the control unit of a projector.

[0011] Figure 4 This is an image migration diagram illustrating an example of changes in an image displayed on a screen.

[0012] Figure 5 This is an image migration diagram illustrating an example of changes in the image displayed on a liquid crystal panel.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a graph illustrating an example of the change in the first moving speed of the first image.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control unit's processing.

[0015] Label Explanation

[0016] 1. Display system; 100. Projector; 100A. First projector; 100B. Second projector; 110. Projection unit; 112. Light modulation device; 115. LCD panel; 115A. First LCD panel; 115B. Second LCD panel; 150. Control unit; 150A. Processor; 150B. Memory; 151. Instruction receiving unit; 152. Speed ​​setting unit; 153. Movement execution unit; 154. Control program; 155. Pattern image storage unit; 156. Movement completion image storage unit; CM. Movement indication information; L. Movement distance; L1, M1. First distance; L2, M2. Second distance; PA, QA. First image; PB, QB. Second image; PE. Movement completion image; PE1. First... Image of completed movement; PE2 image of completed movement; PLA and PLB projection light; PP pattern image; PT image; R1 and S1 region 1; R2 and S2 region 2; R3 and S3 region 3; R4 and S4 region 4; SC screen (projection surface); SL1 threshold distance; SL2 threshold distance; SL3 threshold distance (specified distance); SL4 threshold distance; TP and TQ image migration map; V1 moving speed; VH1 reference speed (reference speed); VH2 reference speed; VL1 deceleration speed; VL2 deceleration speed; VL3 deceleration speed (deceleration speed); VL4 deceleration speed. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] [1. Structure of the display system]

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the display system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0020] Display system 1 includes a first projector 100A and a second projector 100B. The first projector 100A is communicatively connected to the second projector 100B via cable CB.

[0021] The first projector 100A projects the first image PA onto the first area R1 of the screen SC. For example, the first projector 100A displays the first image PA on the first area R1 of the screen SC by projecting projection light PLA onto the screen SC.

[0022] The second projector 100B projects the second image PB onto the second region R2 of the screen SC. The second projector 100B projects the second image PB onto the second region R2 of the screen SC, for example, by projecting a projection light PLB onto the screen SC. The first image PA and the second image PB are, for example, pattern images PP. On the screen SC, for example, the first region R1 is positioned to the left of the second region R2.

[0023] The screen SC corresponds to an example of a "projection surface".

[0024] Figure 1 This example shows a floor-mounted installation where the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B are placed in front of the screen SC. However, the projectors 100 can also be suspended from the ceiling, for example. In this embodiment, the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B are shown to project onto a flat screen SC. However, the projection object is not limited to the screen SC; it can also be a flat surface such as a building wall, or a curved or uneven surface.

[0025] The first projector 100A and the second projector 100B can be communicatively connected, for example, according to the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

[0026] For example, when a user receives a motion instruction, the first projector 100A sends motion instruction information CM to the second projector 100B. The motion instruction information CM, for example, instructs the first image PA to move from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first motion speed V1, and the second image PB to move from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second motion speed V2. The third region R3 is the target region for the movement of the first image PA. The fourth region R4 is the target region for the movement of the second image PB.

[0027] Reference Figure 4 Further explanation of region 3 (R3) and region 4 (R4).

[0028] [2. Structure of a Projector]

[0029] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the projector 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 The structure of the first projector 100A will be described below. The second projector 100B has the same structure as the first projector 100A. Therefore, without distinguishing between the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B, it is sometimes referred to as projector 100.

[0030] The projector 100 includes a projection unit 110 and a drive unit 120 for driving the projection unit 110. The projection unit 110 forms an optical image and projects the image onto the screen SC.

[0031] The projection unit 110 includes a light source unit 111, a light modulation device 112, and a projection optical system 113. The driving unit 120 includes a light source driving unit 121 and a light modulation device driving unit 122.

[0032] The light source unit 111 is equipped with halogen lamps, xenon lamps, ultra-high pressure mercury lamps, or solid-state light sources such as LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and laser light sources.

[0033] Additionally, the light source unit 111 may also include a reflector and an auxiliary reflector for guiding the light emitted from the light source to the light modulation device 112. Furthermore, the light source unit 111 may also include a lens group, a polarizer, or a dimming element for improving the optical characteristics of the projected light, or a dimming element for reducing the amount of light emitted from the light source on its path to the light modulation device 112.

[0034] The light source drive unit 121 is connected to the internal bus 107, and according to the instructions of the control unit 150, which is also connected to the internal bus 107, it turns the light source of the light source unit 111 on and off.

[0035] The light modulation device 112 includes, for example, three liquid crystal panels 115 corresponding to the three primary colors R, G, and B. R represents red, G represents green, and B represents blue. That is, the light modulation device 112 includes a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to R color light, a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to G color light, and a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to B color light.

[0036] The light emitted by the light source 111 is separated into three colors, RGB, and incident on the corresponding liquid crystal panels 115. The three liquid crystal panels 115 are transmissive liquid crystal panels, and the transmitted light is modulated to generate image light PL. The image light PL modulated by each liquid crystal panel 115 is combined by a combining optical system such as a cross dichroic prism and emitted into the projection optical system 113.

[0037] In the following description, the LCD panel 115 of the first projector 100A is sometimes referred to as the first LCD panel 115A, and the LCD panel 115 of the second projector 100B is sometimes referred to as the second LCD panel 115B.

[0038] The optical modulation device 112 is driven by the optical modulation device drive unit 122. The optical modulation device drive unit 122 is connected to the image processing unit 145.

[0039] Image data corresponding to the R, G, and B primary colors is input from the image processing unit 145 to the light modulation device driving unit 122. The light modulation device driving unit 122 converts the input image data into data signals suitable for the operation of the liquid crystal panel 115. Based on the converted data signals, the light modulation device driving unit 122 applies voltage to each pixel of each liquid crystal panel 115 and draws an image on each liquid crystal panel 115.

[0040] The projection optical system 113 includes a lens or mirror that enables the incident image light PL to be imaged on the screen SC. Furthermore, the projection optical system 113 may also include a zoom mechanism for magnifying or reducing the image projected onto the screen SC, and a focus adjustment mechanism for adjusting the focus.

[0041] The projector 100 also includes an operation unit 131, a remote control light receiver 133, an input interface 135, a storage unit 137, a communication interface 141, a frame memory 143, an image processing unit 145, and a control unit 150. The input interface 135, storage unit 137, communication interface 141, image processing unit 145, and control unit 150 are connected to each other via an internal bus 107 in a manner that enables data communication.

[0042] The operation unit 131 includes various buttons and switches provided on the surface of the projector 100's frame, generates operation signals corresponding to the operation of these buttons and switches, and outputs them to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 outputs the operation signals input from the operation unit 131 to the control unit 150.

[0043] The remote control's light-receiving unit 133 receives infrared signals sent from the remote control 5, decodes the received infrared signals to generate an operation signal, and outputs the generated operation signal to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 outputs the operation signal input from the remote control's light-receiving unit 133 to the control unit 150.

[0044] Storage unit 137 is, for example, a non-volatile storage device such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage unit 137 stores programs executed by control unit 150, data processed by control unit 150, image data, etc.

[0045] Communication interface 141 includes a connector and interface circuitry, transmitting motion indication information CM to the second projector 100B. In this embodiment, communication interface 141 is, for example, an interface for communicating with the second projector 100B according to the Ethernet standard. Communication interface 141 is communicatively connected to the second projector 100B via cable CB.

[0046] The control unit 150 includes a processor 150A and a memory 150B.

[0047] Memory 150B is a storage device that non-volatilely stores programs and data executed by processor 150A. Memory 150B is composed of semiconductor storage elements such as magnetic storage devices, flash memory (ROM), or other types of non-volatile storage devices. Alternatively, memory 150B may also include RAM (Random Access Memory) that constitutes the working area of ​​processor 150A. Furthermore, memory 150B may also include non-volatile storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs.

[0048] The memory 150B stores the data processed by the control unit 150 and the control program 154 executed by the processor 150A.

[0049] The processor 150A can be a single processor or a structure in which multiple processors function as the processor 150A. The processor 150A executes the control program 154 to control various parts of the projector 100. For example, the processor 150A outputs to the image processing unit 145 an execution instruction for image processing corresponding to the operation received via the operation unit 131 or the remote controller 5, along with the parameters used for that image processing. These parameters include, for example, geometric correction parameters for correcting geometric distortion of the image projected onto the screen SC. Furthermore, the processor 150A controls the light source drive unit 121 to control the lighting and extinguishing of the light source unit 111.

[0050] The control unit 150, image processing unit 145, and frame memory 143 can each be constructed from integrated circuits, for example. Integrated circuits include LSIs, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), and PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices). PLDs include, for example, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays). Furthermore, a portion of the integrated circuit structure may include analog circuitry, or it may be a combination of a processor and an integrated circuit. Combinations of processors and integrated circuits are referred to as microcontrollers (MCUs), SoCs (System-on-a-chips), system LSIs, chipsets, etc.

[0051] The image processing unit 145 expands the image data stored in the memory 150B or the storage unit 137 into the frame memory 143. The frame memory 143 has multiple memory banks. Each memory bank has a storage capacity capable of writing one frame of image data. The frame memory 143 is, for example, constructed of SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0052] The image processing unit 145 performs image processing on the image data expanded in the frame memory 143, such as resolution conversion processing or size adjustment processing, distortion and aberration correction, shape correction processing, digital zoom processing, and adjustment of image hue or brightness.

[0053] In addition, the image processing unit 145 generates a vertical synchronization signal that converts the input frame frequency of the vertical synchronization signal into a drawing frequency. The generated vertical synchronization signal is referred to as the output synchronization signal. The image processing unit 145 outputs the generated output synchronization signal to the optical modulation device drive unit 122.

[0054] [3. Structure of the Control Unit]

[0055] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the control unit 150 of the projector 100. Figure 3 The structure of the control unit 150 of the first projector 100A will be described below. The control unit 150 of the second projector 100B has the same structure as the control unit 150 of the first projector 100A. Therefore, it is sometimes referred to as control unit 150 when the control unit 150 of the first projector 100A and the control unit 150 of the second projector 100B are not distinguished.

[0056] like Figure 3As shown, the control unit 150 includes an instruction receiving unit 151, a speed setting unit 152, a movement execution unit 153, a pattern image storage unit 155, and a movement completion image storage unit 156. Specifically, the processor 150A of the control unit 150 functions as the instruction receiving unit 151, the speed setting unit 152, and the movement execution unit 153 by executing the control program 154 stored in the memory 150B. Furthermore, the processor 150A of the control unit 150 executes the control program 154 stored in the memory 150B, causing the memory 150B to function as the pattern image storage unit 155 and the movement completion image storage unit 156.

[0057] The pattern image storage unit 155 stores the pattern image PP. When the first image PA is displayed in the first area R1, the pattern image PP is displayed as the first image PA. The pattern image PP is displayed while adjusting the position, shape, size, and color of the area displaying the first image PA.

[0058] The motion completion image storage unit 156 stores the first motion completion image PE1. The first motion completion image PE1 is an image representing the completion of the movement of the first image PA to the third region R3 and the movement of the second image PB to the fourth region R4. When the first image PA moves from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and the second image PB moves from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the first motion completion image PE1 is displayed as the first image PA by the motion execution unit 153.

[0059] In this embodiment, the third region R3 and the fourth region R4 are arranged on the screen SC such that a first image PA projected onto the third region R3 and a second image PB projected onto the fourth region R4 are displayed as a single image PT. Specifically, the first image PA projected onto the third region R3 and the second image PB projected onto the fourth region R4 are so-called "tiled projections" to display a single image PT. The single image PT is, for example, a motion-complete image PE.

[0060] Reference Figure 4 Further explanation of the motion completion image PE.

[0061] Similarly, the second projector 100B's motion completion image storage unit 156 stores the second motion completion image PE2. The second motion completion image PE2 represents the completion of the movement of the first image PA to the third region R3 and the movement of the second image PB to the fourth region R4. When the first image PA moves from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and the second image PB moves from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the second motion completion image PE2 is displayed as the second image PB by the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B.

[0062] In this embodiment, the first image PA and the second image PB are arranged in the left-right direction of the screen SC, displaying one image PT. Therefore, the first motion-completed image PE1 projected onto the third region R3 is, for example, the left half of the motion-completed image PE, and the second motion-completed image PE2 projected onto the fourth region R4 is, for example, the right half of the motion-completed image PE.

[0063] In this embodiment, the first image PA and the second image PB are arranged horizontally on the screen SC to display one image PT, but this is not a limitation. The first image PA and the second image PB can also be arranged vertically on the screen SC to display one image PT.

[0064] The instruction receiving unit 151 receives movement instructions from the user based on the user's operation of the operation unit 131 or the remote control 5. The movement instructions are instructions to move the first image PA from the first area R1 to the third area R3, and to move the second image PB from the second area R2 to the fourth area R4. The first area R1 and the third area R3 each correspond to an example of the projection area of ​​the first projector 100A. The second area R2 and the fourth area R4 each correspond to an example of the projection area of ​​the second projector 100B.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 Further explanation of region 3 (R3) and region 4 (R4).

[0066] Upon receiving a motion instruction, the instruction receiving unit 151 generates motion instruction information CM and sends the motion instruction information CM to the second projector 100B.

[0067] In this embodiment, the case where the instruction receiving unit 151 of the first projector 100A receives an instruction to move the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 will be described, but it is not limited thereto. It is sufficient that at least one of the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B receives the instruction to move the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4.

[0068] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the case where the first projector 100A receives a movement instruction from the user is described, but it is not limited thereto. The display system 1 may also include an information processing device such as a personal computer that can be communicatively connected to the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B. When the information processing device receives a movement instruction from the user, it sends movement instruction information CM to the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B.

[0069] Alternatively, the motion instruction information CM may include first motion instruction information CM1 and second motion instruction information CM2. The information processing device sends the first motion instruction information CM1 to the first projector 100A and the second motion instruction information CM2 to the second projector 100B. Furthermore, the first motion instruction information CM1 indicates that the first image PA should be moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3. The second motion instruction information CM2 indicates that the second image PB should be moved from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4.

[0070] The speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 based on the first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3.

[0071] Similarly, the speed setting unit 152 of the second projector 100B sets the second moving speed V2 based on the second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4.

[0072] When the first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3 is longer than the second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first movement speed V1 to be faster than the second movement speed V2. Conversely, when the first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3 is shorter than the second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first movement speed V1 to be slower than the second movement speed V2.

[0073] The speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 and the second moving speed V2 in such a way that the time when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 is the same as the time when the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4.

[0074] Reference Figure 4 Further explanation of the first distance L1 and the second distance L2.

[0075] When the distance from the first region R1 to the first image PA is greater than or equal to the first threshold distance SL1, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 to the first reference speed VH1. Conversely, when the distance from the first region R1 to the first image PA is less than the first threshold distance SL1, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 to a first deceleration speed VL1, which is slower than the first reference speed VH1.

[0076] Similarly, when the distance from the second region R2 to the second image PB is greater than or equal to the second threshold distance SL2, the speed setting unit 152 of the second projector 100B sets the second moving speed V2 to the second reference speed VH2. Conversely, when the distance from the second region R2 to the second image PB is less than the second threshold distance SL2, the speed setting unit 152 of the second projector 100B sets the second moving speed V2 to a second deceleration speed VL2, which is slower than the second reference speed VH2.

[0077] Furthermore, when the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is greater than or equal to the third threshold distance SL3, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 to the first reference speed VH1. Conversely, when the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is less than the third threshold distance SL3, the speed setting unit 152 sets the first moving speed V1 to a third deceleration speed VL3, which is slower than the first reference speed VH1.

[0078] Similarly, when the distance from the second image PB to the fourth region R4 is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold distance SL4, the speed setting unit 152 of the second projector 100B sets the second moving speed V2 to the second reference speed VH2. Conversely, when the distance from the second image PB to the fourth region R4 is less than the fourth threshold distance SL4, the speed setting unit 152 of the second projector 100B sets the second moving speed V2 to a fourth deceleration speed VL4, which is slower than the second reference speed VH2.

[0079] The first reference speed VH1 corresponds to an example of "reference speed". The third deceleration speed VL3 corresponds to an example of "deceleration speed". The third threshold distance SL3 corresponds to an example of "specified distance".

[0080] Reference Figure 6 Further explanation of the first reference speed VH1, the first deceleration speed VL1, the third deceleration speed VL3, the first threshold distance SL1, and the third threshold distance SL3.

[0081] The motion execution unit 153 moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1 set by the speed setting unit 152. For example, the motion execution unit 153 moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 by moving the position of the image generated by the first liquid crystal panel 115A. In other words, the motion execution unit 153 moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 through a so-called "digital shift function".

[0082] Similarly, the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2 set by the speed setting unit 152. The motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, for example, by moving the position of the image generated by the second liquid crystal panel 115B. In other words, the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 through a so-called "digital shift function".

[0083] In addition, when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 and the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4, the motion execution unit 153 reads the first motion completion image PE1 from the motion completion image storage unit 156 and displays it as the first image PA.

[0084] Similarly, when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 and the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4, the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B reads the second motion completion image PE2 from the motion completion image storage unit 156 and displays it as the second image PB.

[0085] Furthermore, when the first image PA reaches the third region R3, the motion execution unit 153 sends information to the second projector 100B indicating that the first image PA has reached the third region R3. Additionally, when the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4, the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B sends information to the first projector 100A indicating that the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4.

[0086] [4. Specific examples]

[0087] Figure 4 This is an image transition diagram TP illustrating an example of changes in the images displayed on screen SC. The upper part of the image transition diagram TP shows the state of the first image PA and the second image PB displayed on screen SC before the movement, and the lower part shows the state of the first image PA and the second image PB displayed on screen SC after the movement.

[0088] Specifically, in the upper part, a pattern image PP is displayed as a first image PA in a first area R1 of the screen SC by a first projector 100A. Additionally, a pattern image PP is displayed as a second image PB in a second area R2 of the screen SC by a second projector 100B. The first area R1 is located on the left part of the screen SC, and the second area R2 is located on the right part of the screen SC. The first area R1 and the second area R2 are separate.

[0089] In the lower part, the first motion completion image PE1 is displayed as the first image PA in the third area R3 of the screen SC by the motion execution unit 153 of the first projector 100A. Additionally, the second motion completion image PE2 is displayed as the second image PB in the fourth area R4 of the screen SC by the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B.

[0090] Region 3 R3 is positioned on screen SC by shifting region 1 R1 to the right by a distance L1. Region 4 R4 is positioned on screen SC by shifting region 2 R2 to the left by a distance L2. Figure 4 In this case, the first distance L1 is longer than the second distance L2. The speed setting unit 152, for example, sets the first moving speed V1 to be faster than the second moving speed V2.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, region 1 R1 and region 3 R3 have the same shape and size. Additionally, region 2 R2 and region 4 R4 have the same shape and size. In other words, the adjustment of the projection region in this embodiment is a movement of the projection region.

[0092] The right end of region 3 (R3) connects to the left end of region 4 (R4). The first completed motion image PE1 displayed in region 3 (R3) and the second completed motion image PE2 displayed in region 4 (R4) constitute a completed motion image PE. The completed motion image PE corresponds to one image PT.

[0093] The image PE for motion completion includes, for example, an elliptical graphic image and a text image such as "Adjustment completed" indicating that the adjustment of the projection area is complete.

[0094] Furthermore, when displaying one image PT via "tiling projection," a region is generated where the projection area of ​​the first projector 100A partially overlaps with the projection area of ​​the second projector 100B, and edge blending processing is performed in this region. In this embodiment, for convenience, the case where this region does not exist will be described.

[0095] Figure 5 This is an image migration diagram TQ showing an example of a change in the image displayed on the liquid crystal panel 115.

[0096] The image migration diagram TQ shows the change in the display position of the first image QA displayed on the first liquid crystal panel 115A of the first projector 100A on the left, and the change in the display position of the second image QB displayed on the second liquid crystal panel 115B of the second projector 100B on the right.

[0097] The first image QA corresponds to the first image PA. That is, by displaying the first image QA on the first liquid crystal panel 115A, the first projector 100A projects the first image PA onto the screen SC. The second image QB corresponds to the second image PB. That is, by displaying the second image QB on the second liquid crystal panel 115B, the second projector 100B projects the second image PB onto the screen SC.

[0098] First, referring to the diagram shown on the left side of the image migration diagram TQ, the change in the display position of the first image QA displayed on the first liquid crystal panel 115A of the first projector 100A will be explained.

[0099] At the top, a first image QA is displayed in the first area S1 of the first liquid crystal panel 115A. By displaying the first image QA in the first area S1 of the first liquid crystal panel 115A, the first projector 100A displays the first image PA in the first area R1 of the screen SC.

[0100] As shown below, the movement execution unit 153 of the first projector 100A moves the first image QA from the first region S1 to the third region S3 of the first liquid crystal panel 115A. In the first liquid crystal panel 115A, by moving the first image QA from the first region S1 to the third region S3, the first projector 100A moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 on the screen SC.

[0101] The third region S3 is positioned such that the first region S1 is shifted to the right by a first distance M1. In the first liquid crystal panel 115A, by shifting the first region S1 to the right by a first distance M1, the first image PA in the screen SC is shifted to the right by a first distance L1.

[0102] Next, referring to the diagram shown on the right side of the image migration diagram TQ, the change in the display position of the second image QB displayed on the second liquid crystal panel 115B of the second projector 100B will be explained.

[0103] At the top, a second image QB is displayed in the second area S2 of the second LCD panel 115B. By displaying the second image QB in the second area S2 of the second LCD panel 115B, the second projector 100B displays the second image PB in the second area R2 of the screen SC.

[0104] As shown below, the movement execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B moves the second image QB from the second region S2 to the fourth region S4 of the second liquid crystal panel 115B. By moving the second image QB from the second region S2 to the fourth region S4 in the second liquid crystal panel 115B, the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 in the screen SC.

[0105] The fourth region S4 is positioned such that the second region S2 is shifted to the left by a second distance M2. In the second liquid crystal panel 115B, by shifting the second region S2 to the left by a second distance M2, the second image PB in the screen SC is shifted to the left by a second distance L2.

[0106] For reference Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As explained, the motion execution unit 153 of the first projector 100A moves the first image QA from the first region S1 to the third region S3 of the first liquid crystal panel 115A, thereby moving the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 on the screen SC. Similarly, the motion execution unit 153 of the second projector 100B moves the second image QB from the second region S2 to the fourth region S4 of the second liquid crystal panel 115B, thereby moving the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 on the screen SC.

[0107] Therefore, on screen SC, the first image PA can be easily moved from region 1 R1 to region 3 R3. Similarly, on screen SC, the second image PB can be easily moved from region 2 R2 to region 4 R4.

[0108] Furthermore, the first moving speed V1 of the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 can be easily adjusted. Similarly, the second moving speed V2 of the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 can be easily adjusted.

[0109] Reference Figure 6 Further explanation of the first moving speed V1.

[0110] Figure 6 This is a graph illustrating an example of the change in the first moving speed V1 of the first image PA displayed on screen SC. The horizontal axis represents the moving distance L, and the vertical axis represents the first moving speed V1. Graph G represents the change in the first moving speed V1. Furthermore, Figure 6 The first moving speed V1 shown is set by the speed setting unit 152.

[0111] In addition, Figure 6 In this context, the unit of movement distance L is cm, and the unit of the first movement speed V1 is (cm / frame). That is, the unit of the first movement speed V1 is the movement distance within one frame. The maximum value of the movement distance L corresponds to the first distance L1. Figure 6 In this context, the first distance L1 is 21cm. The maximum value of the first moving speed V1 corresponds to the first reference speed VH1. Figure 6 In this context, the first reference velocity VH1 is 1 cm / frame.

[0112] For example, if the first image PA is displayed by the first projector 100A at 60fps, one frame corresponds to 1 / 60th of a second. In this case, 1cm / frame is 60cm / s.

[0113] With the movement distance L at zero, the first image PA is located in the first region R1. As shown in curve G, the first movement speed V1 increases monotonically between the movement distance L being zero and the distance L11. Figure 6 In the example, at a distance L11 of 4 cm, the first moving speed V1 monotonically increases from 0.2 cm / frame to 1 cm / frame, which serves as the first reference speed VH1. Between a moving distance L of zero and distance L11, the first moving speed V1 is slower than the first reference speed VH1. The first moving speed V1 between a moving distance L of zero and distance L11 is an example of the first deceleration speed VL1. Distance L11 corresponds to an example of the first threshold distance SL1.

[0114] Furthermore, when the moving distance L is between 4cm and 16cm, i.e., between distance L11 and distance (L11 + L12), the first moving speed V1 is the first reference speed VH1. Distance L12 is the distance between 4cm and 16cm when the moving distance L is between 4cm and 16cm.

[0115] Furthermore, between the movement distance L of 16cm and 21cm, i.e., between the distance L of (L11 + L12) and the first distance L1 (= L11 + L12 + L13), the first movement speed V1 monotonically decreases from 1cm / frame to 0cm / frame. Between the movement distance L of 16cm and 21cm, the first movement speed V1 is slower than the first reference speed VH1.

[0116] A first moving speed V1 with a moving distance L between 16cm and 21cm corresponds to an example of a third deceleration speed VL3. A moving distance L13 with a moving distance L between 16cm and 21cm corresponds to an example of a third threshold distance SL3.

[0117] With a movement distance L of 21cm, the first image PA is located in the third region R3. Figure 6 In this context, the first threshold distance SL1 is 5cm when the movement distance L is between 16cm and 21cm.

[0118] For reference Figure 6 As explained, between the distance L being zero and the distance L11, the first moving speed V1 increases monotonically, thus enabling the first image PA to be displayed in a manner in which the first image PA begins to move smoothly from the first region R1 toward the third region R3.

[0119] Furthermore, between the distance L (L11+L12) and the first distance L1, the first moving speed V1 decreases monotonically, so the first image PA can be displayed in a way that the first image PA stops smoothly in the third region R3.

[0120] [5. Control Unit Processing]

[0121] Next, refer to Figure 7 A specific example of the processing of the control unit 150 in the first projector 100A is explained. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control unit 150 in the first projector 100A.

[0122] First, in step S101, the control unit 150 projects a first image PA onto the first region R1 of the screen SC.

[0123] Next, in step S103, the instruction receiving unit 151 receives a movement instruction that instructs the first image PA to be moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3.

[0124] Next, in step S105, the speed setting unit 152 sets a first moving speed V1 based on a first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3. Specifically, the speed setting unit 152 sets a first deceleration speed VL1, a first reference speed VH1, and a third deceleration speed VL3 as the first moving speed V1.

[0125] Next, in step S107, the movement execution unit 153 begins to move the first image PA from the first region R1.

[0126] Next, in step S109, the motion execution unit 153 determines whether the distance from the first region R1 to the first image PA is greater than or equal to the first threshold distance SL1.

[0127] If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the distance from the first region R1 to the first image PA is not greater than the first threshold distance SL1 (step S109: No), the process proceeds to step S111.

[0128] Then, in step S111, the movement execution unit 153 sets the first movement speed V1 to the first deceleration speed VL1. Then, the process returns to step S109.

[0129] If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the distance from the first region R1 to the first image PA is greater than or equal to the first threshold distance SL1 (step S109: Yes), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0130] Then, in step S113, the movement execution unit 153 sets the first movement speed V1 to the first reference speed VH1.

[0131] Next, in step S115, the motion execution unit 153 determines whether the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is less than the third threshold distance SL3.

[0132] If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is not less than the third threshold distance SL3 (step S115: No), the process enters a standby state. If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is less than the third threshold distance SL3 (step S115: Yes), the process proceeds to step S117.

[0133] Then, in step S117, the movement execution unit 153 sets the first movement speed V1 to the third deceleration speed VL3.

[0134] Next, in step S119, the motion execution unit 153 determines whether the first image PA has reached the third region R3 and whether the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4. For example, if the motion execution unit 153 receives information from the second projector 100B indicating that the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4, it determines that the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4.

[0135] If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the first image PA has not reached the third region R3 or the second image PB has not reached the fourth region R4 (step S119: No), the process enters a standby state. If the motion execution unit 153 determines that the first image PA has reached the third region R3 and the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4 (step S119: Yes), the process proceeds to step S121.

[0136] Then, in step S121, the movement execution unit 153 displays the first movement completion image PE1 as the first image PA. After that, the process ends.

[0137] [6. This implementation method and its effects]

[0138] The above is for reference only. Figures 1 to 7As explained, in the control method of the projector 100 of this embodiment, the first projector 100A projects a first image PA onto a first region R1 of the screen SC; the second projector 100B projects a second image PB onto a second region R2 of the screen SC; an instruction is received to move the projection area of ​​the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and to move the projection area of ​​the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4; upon receiving the instruction, the first projector 100A moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1; the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2, and the first image PA projected onto the third region R3 and the second image PB projected onto the fourth region R4 display one image PT.

[0139] According to this structure, the first image PA moves from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1, and the second image PB moves from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2.

[0140] Therefore, by setting the first moving speed V1 and the second moving speed V2 to appropriate values, the user can easily see the adjustment content of the projection areas of the first image PA and the second image PB. This improves user convenience.

[0141] Additionally, the first image PA projected onto region 3 R3 and the second image PB projected onto region 4 R4 display a single image PT.

[0142] Therefore, when the first image PA and the second image PB are subjected to so-called "tiling projection" or "stacked projection", the adjustment of the projection area of ​​each of the first image PA and the second image PB can be easily seen.

[0143] Furthermore, the control method of the projector 100 in this embodiment includes: when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 and the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4, the first projector 100A projects a first motion completion image PE1 that notifies the completion of the motion as the first image PA.

[0144] According to this structure, when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 and the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4, the first projector 100A projects the first completed image PE1, which notifies that the movement is complete, as the first image PA.

[0145] Therefore, by observing the first completed movement image PE1, the user can confirm that the first image PA has reached the third region R3 and the second image PB has reached the fourth region R4. This improves user convenience.

[0146] Furthermore, the control method of the projector 100 in this embodiment includes: setting a first moving speed V1 based on a first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3, and setting a second moving speed V2 based on a second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4.

[0147] For example, the longer the first distance L1, the faster the first movement speed V1 is set; the longer the second distance L2, the faster the second movement speed V2 is set.

[0148] Therefore, the first moving speed V1 and the second moving speed V2 can be set to appropriate speeds. Thus, for example, it is possible to make the time when the first image PA arrives at the third region R3 approximately coincide with the time when the second image PB arrives at the fourth region R4.

[0149] Furthermore, the control method of the projector 100 in this embodiment includes: when the first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3 is longer than the second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the first moving speed V1 is set to a speed faster than the second moving speed V2; when the first distance L1 from the first region R1 to the third region R3 is shorter than the second distance L2 from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4, the first moving speed V1 is set to a speed slower than the second moving speed V2.

[0150] Therefore, for example, it is possible to make the time when the first image PA reaches the third region R3 approximately coincide with the time when the second image PB reaches the fourth region R4.

[0151] Furthermore, the control method of the projector 100 in this embodiment includes: when the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is greater than or equal to the third threshold distance SL3, setting the first moving speed V1 to the first reference speed VH1; and when the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 is less than the third threshold distance SL3, setting the first moving speed V1 to a third deceleration speed VL3 that is slower than the first reference speed.

[0152] Therefore, when moving the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3, when the distance from the first image PA to the third region R3 reaches the third threshold distance SL3, the first moving speed V1 decelerates from the first reference speed to the third deceleration speed VL3. Thus, the movement of moving the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 can be displayed smoothly.

[0153] The control method of the projector 100 in this embodiment includes: the first projector 100A projects a first image PA onto a first region R1 of the screen SC; receives an instruction to move the projection area of ​​the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3; and, upon receiving the instruction, the first projector 100A moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1.

[0154] Therefore, by setting the first moving speed V1 to an appropriate value, the user can easily see the adjustment content of the projection area of ​​the first image PA. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0155] The display system 1 of this embodiment includes a first projector 100A and a second projector 100B. The first projector 100A projects a first image PA onto a first region R1 of a screen SC, and the second projector 100B projects a second image PB onto a second region R2 of the screen SC. At least one of the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B receives an instruction to move the projection area of ​​the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 and to move the projection area of ​​the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4. When the instruction is received, the first projector 100A moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1, and the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2. The first image PA projected onto the third region R3 and the second image PB projected onto the fourth region R4 display one image PT.

[0156] According to this structure, the first image PA moves from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1, and the second image PB moves from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2.

[0157] Therefore, by setting the first moving speed V1 and the second moving speed V2 to appropriate values, the user can easily see the adjustment content of the projection areas of the first image PA and the second image PB. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0158] Additionally, the first image PA projected onto region 3 R3 and the second image PB projected onto region 4 R4 display a single image PT.

[0159] Therefore, when the first image PA and the second image PB are subjected to so-called "tiling projection" or "stacked projection", it is easy to see the adjustment of the display position of the first image PA and the second image PB respectively.

[0160] The display system 1 of this embodiment includes a first projector 100A, a second projector 100B, and an information processing device. The first projector 100A projects a first image PA onto a first region R1 of a screen SC, and the second projector 100B projects a second image PB onto a second region R2 of the screen SC. The information processing device receives a first instruction CM1 to move the projection area of ​​the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3, and a second instruction to move the projection area of ​​the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4. Upon receiving the first instruction information CM1 and the second instruction information CM2, the first projector 100A moves the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1 based on the first instruction information CM1, and the second projector 100B moves the second image PB from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2 based on the second instruction information CM2. The first image PA projected to the third region R3 and the second image PB projected to the fourth region R4 display one image PT.

[0161] According to this structure, the first image PA moves from the first region R1 to the third region R3 at a first moving speed V1, and the second image PB moves from the second region R2 to the fourth region R4 at a second moving speed V2.

[0162] Therefore, by setting the first moving speed V1 and the second moving speed V2 to appropriate values, the user can easily see the adjustment content of the projection areas of the first image PA and the second image PB. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0163] Additionally, the first image PA projected onto region 3 R3 and the second image PB projected onto region 4 R4 display a single image PT.

[0164] Therefore, when the first image PA and the second image PB are subjected to so-called "tiling projection" or "stacked projection", it is easy to see the adjustment of the display position of the first image PA and the second image PB respectively.

[0165] [7. Other Implementation Methods]

[0166] The above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment. However, it is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be implemented without departing from the spirit of the subject.

[0167] In this embodiment, the case where the projection area of ​​the first projector 100A is moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3 is described, but it is not limited to this. Any adjustment to the projection area of ​​the first projector 100A is acceptable. For example, it could be that at least one of the projection shape and projection area of ​​the first region R1 and the third region R3 is different.

[0168] For example, the effects of the present invention become more significant when the projection positions, projection shapes, and projection areas of the first region R1 and the third region R3 are different. For example, when the projection area of ​​the third region R3 is larger than that of the first region R1, it is preferable to display it as follows: that is, during the movement of moving the first image PA from the first region R1 to the third region R3, the projection area of ​​the first image PA is gradually increased from the projection area of ​​the first region R1 to the projection area of ​​the third region R3.

[0169] In this embodiment, the case of "tiling projection" performed by the first projector 100A and the second projector 100B is described, but it is not limited to this. The first projector 100A and the second projector 100B can also perform so-called "stacked projection". In this case, the first image PA projected onto the third region R3 is the entire image of the image PE after it has been moved.

[0170] in addition, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The functional units shown represent functional structures, and there are no particular restrictions on the specific installation method. That is, it is not necessarily necessary to install hardware corresponding to each functional unit; of course, it is also possible to configure the system so that the functions of multiple functional units are implemented by a single processor executing a program. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a portion of the functions implemented by software can be implemented by hardware, or a portion of the functions implemented by hardware can be implemented by software. In addition, the specific details of the structure of other parts of the projector 100 can be arbitrarily changed without departing from the main idea.

[0171] In addition, to make the processing of the control unit 150 easier to understand, it is divided according to the main processing content. Figure 7 The flowchart shown represents the processing unit. Figure 7 The flowchart shows no restrictions on the method or name for dividing the processing units. It can be divided into more processing units based on the processing content, or it can be divided into one processing unit containing more processes. Furthermore, the processing order in the flowchart is not limited to the example shown.

[0172] Furthermore, the control method of the projector 100 can be implemented by having the processor 150A of the projector 100 execute a control program 154 corresponding to the control method of the projector 100. Alternatively, this control program 154 can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Magnetic, optical, or semiconductor storage devices can be used as the recording medium.

[0173] Specifically, examples include removable or fixed recording media such as floppy disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs, Blu-ray discs, optical disks, flash memory, and card-type recording media. Alternatively, recording media can also be internal storage devices of image processing equipment, such as RAM, ROM, and HDDs—non-volatile storage devices.

[0174] Alternatively, by storing the control program 154 corresponding to the control method of the projector 100 in a server device or the like, and downloading the control program 154 from the server device to the projector 100, the control method of the projector 100 can also be implemented.

[0175] Furthermore, the projector 100 of this embodiment exemplifies a structure in which the light modulation device 112 has, for example, three liquid crystal panels 115 corresponding to the three primary colors R, G, and B, but is not limited thereto. For example, the light modulation device 112 may also be a structure using a digital mirror device. In this case, the movement execution unit 153 of the first projector 100A moves the first image QA from the first region S1 to the third region S3 of the digital mirror device, thereby the first projector 100A can operate in such a way that the first image PA is moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3 on the screen SC.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a projector, comprising: The first projector projects the first image onto the first region of the projection surface; The second projector projects a second image onto a second region of the projection surface; Accept instructions to move the projection area of ​​the first image from the first area to the third area and to move the projection area of ​​the second image from the second area to the fourth area; Upon receiving the instruction, the first projector moves the first image from the first region to the third region at a first moving speed, and the second projector moves the second image from the second region to the fourth region at a second moving speed; The first moving speed is set according to the distance from the first region to the third region; The second moving speed is set according to the distance from the second region to the fourth region; If the distance from the first region to the third region is longer than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to a speed faster than the second moving speed. as well as If the distance from the first region to the third region is shorter than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to a speed slower than the second moving speed. The first image projected onto the third region and the second image projected onto the fourth region display one image.

2. The control method for a projector according to claim 1, wherein, The control method includes: When the first image reaches the third region and the second image reaches the fourth region, the first projector projects an image notifying the completion of the movement as the first image.

3. The control method for a projector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control method includes: If the distance from the first image to the third region is greater than a predetermined distance, the first moving speed is set as the base speed. If the distance from the first image to the third region is less than the specified distance, the first moving speed is set to a deceleration speed that is slower than the reference speed.

4. A display system comprising: The first projector; and Second projector, The first projector projects a first image onto a first region of the projection surface. The second projector projects a second image onto a second region of the projection surface. At least one of the first projector and the second projector receives an instruction to move the projection area of ​​the first image from the first area to the third area and to move the projection area of ​​the second image from the second area to the fourth area. If the instruction is accepted The first projector moves the first image from the first region to the third region at a first moving speed. The second projector moves the second image from the second region to the fourth region at a second moving speed. The first moving speed is set based on the distance from the first region to the third region. The second moving speed is set based on the distance from the second region to the fourth region. If the distance from the first region to the third region is longer than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to be faster than the second moving speed. If the distance from the first region to the third region is shorter than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to a speed slower than the second moving speed. in, The first image projected onto the third region and the second image projected onto the fourth region display one image.

5. A display system comprising: First projector; Second projector; and computer, The first projector projects a first image onto a first region of the projection surface. The second projector projects a second image onto a second region of the projection surface. The computer receives a first instruction to move the projection area of ​​the first image from the first area to the third area and a second instruction to move the projection area of ​​the second image from the second area to the fourth area. Upon receiving the first instruction and the second instruction, The first projector moves the first image from the first region to the third region at a first moving speed according to the first instruction information. The second projector, according to the second instruction information, moves the second image from the second region to the fourth region at a second moving speed. The first moving speed is set based on the distance from the first region to the third region. The second moving speed is set based on the distance from the second region to the fourth region. If the distance from the first region to the third region is longer than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to be faster than the second moving speed. If the distance from the first region to the third region is shorter than the distance from the second region to the fourth region, the first moving speed is set to a speed slower than the second moving speed. in, The first image projected onto the third region and the second image projected onto the fourth region display one image.

Images