Image projection method for projector and image projection system

Abstract

To adjust a projection image according to a distance from a screen to a user.SOLUTION: An image projection method for the projector 1 includes causing the second processor 21 to acquire the length LH from the screen SC to the human body H of the user based on a result of the detection performed by the human sensor S, causing the projector 1 to project the first projection image L1 containing the plurality of objects QB on the screen SC in such a way that the size of the first smallest object PM1, which is the smallest object QB among the plurality of objects QB, is equal to the first smallest size QBS1 when the length LH is equal to the first length LS1, and causing the projector 1 to project the second projection image L1 containing the plurality of objects QB on the screen SC in such a way that the size of the second smallest object L2 is equal to the second smallest size PM2 smaller than the first smallest size QBS2 when the length LH is equal to the second length smaller than the first length LS1. LS2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image projection method for a projector and an image projection system. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Various technologies relating to projectors have been known in the past (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming device having the following configuration: The image forming device displays an image in a drawing area formed on a display surface, and has a projector configured to be able to change the position of the drawing area, a detection means that detects whether or not a person is present in a detection area set near the display surface and detects the movement state of the person if a person is present in the detection area, and a control means that controls the operation of the projector based on the detection result of the detection means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-170139 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, the position of the drawing area, which is the area where the image is displayed, is changed according to the movement state of a person moving on the floor. However, there is no mention of how the image is changed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is an image projection method of a projector, including: a processor acquiring a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including multiple objects onto the screen so that a size of a smallest object, which is the smallest object among the multiple objects, is a first size; and if the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the multiple objects onto the screen so that a size of the smallest object is a second size smaller than the first size.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an image projection system in which a processor acquires a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user, and if the distance is a first distance, a projector projects a first projection image including multiple objects onto the screen so that a size of a smallest object, which is the smallest object among the multiple objects, is a first size, and if the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the multiple objects onto the screen so that a size of the smallest object is a second size smaller than the first size. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of an image projection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a side view showing an example of the arrangement of a projector and a screen. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the arrangement of projectors and a screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a projector. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a projection control device. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of transition of a projected image. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the projection control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] First, an image projection system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of an image projection system 100 according to the first embodiment. The image projection system 100 includes a projector 1, a projection control device 2, and a motion sensor S. FIG. 1 illustrates three mutually orthogonal axes: the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis. The X axis and the Y axis are parallel to the horizontal direction. The Z axis is parallel to the vertical direction. The X axis is parallel to the front-to-back direction of the projector 1. The Y axis is parallel to the left-to-right direction of the projector 1. The positive direction of the X axis is the rear direction of the projector 1. The positive direction of the Y axis is the right direction of the projector 1. In addition, in the following drawings, dimensions and scales may be different from the actual dimensions to make the explanation easier to understand. Also, in Figures 2 and 3, the same X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis as in Figure 1 are shown.

[0010] The projector 1 is also communicably connected to the projection control device 2. The projector 1 is communicably connected to the projection control device 2 via, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) (registered trademark) cable.

[0011] In this embodiment, the projector 1 is connected to the projection control device 2 via a USB (registered trademark) cable or the like to enable wired communication, but may also be connected via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or the like to enable wireless communication.

[0012] The projection control device 2 is configured by, for example, a personal computer, and controls the projector 1. The projection control device 2 controls the image that the projector 1 projects. Furthermore, the projection control device 2 calculates the distance LH between the human body H and the screen SC based on the detection result of the human sensor S.

[0013] The projector 1 projects the image light PL onto a screen SC, and displays a projected image PM on the screen SC. In this embodiment, the screen SC is disposed, for example, parallel to the horizontal direction, in other words, parallel to the XY plane.

[0014] The motion sensors S are arranged, for example, on the ceiling of the room RM in a lattice pattern at approximately equal intervals. As shown in Fig. 1, the room RM is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape in a plan view. The ceiling of the room RM is formed in a rectangular shape. The short side direction of the ceiling of the room RM is parallel to the X axis. The long side direction of the ceiling of the room RM is parallel to the Y axis. As shown in Fig. 1, for example, eight motion sensors S are arranged on the ceiling of room RM along the X-axis direction. Also, twelve motion sensors S are arranged on the ceiling of room RM along the Y-axis direction. A total of 92 (=8 x 12) motion sensors S are arranged on the ceiling of room RM.

[0015] Doors D1 and D2 are arranged on the wall surface in the front direction of the room RM, that is, in the negative direction of the X axis. As shown in Fig. 1, a human body H exists inside the room RM, for example, near the door D1.

[0016] Each of the 92 motion sensors S detects whether a human body H is present in a rectangular area delimited by a dashed line in Fig. 1. Each of the 92 motion sensors S also outputs a detection signal SG indicating the detection result to the projection control device 2. For example, when a human body H is present at the position shown in FIG. 1, the human body sensor SA among the 92 human body sensors S detects the presence of the human body H.

[0017] In this embodiment, a case where a single human body H is present in a room RM as shown in Fig. 1 will be described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. There may be multiple human bodies H corresponding to multiple people in the room RM.

[0018] Next, the arrangement of the projector 1 and the screen SC will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Fig. 2 is a side view showing an example of the arrangement of the projector 1 and the screen SC. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing an example of the arrangement of the projector 1 and the screen SC.

[0019] 2, a table TB is placed on a floor surface FL. A screen SC is placed on the upper surface of the table TB. For example, a tablecloth is placed on the upper surface of the table TB, and the tablecloth functions as the screen SC. 2, the screen SC is disposed horizontally. In other words, the screen SC is disposed parallel to the XY plane.

[0020] As shown in Fig. 2, the projector 1 is disposed diagonally above the screen SC. The projector 1 is disposed, for example, behind the screen SC, i.e., above in the positive direction of the X axis. The projector 1 is fixed, for example, to the wall surface behind the room RM shown in Fig. 1, i.e., in the positive direction of the X axis.

[0021] Furthermore, the projector 1 projects the image light PL onto the screen SC, and displays the projected image PM on the screen SC. As shown in FIG. 3, the screen SC is formed in a rectangular shape. The long side direction of the screen SC is parallel to the Y-axis direction. The short side direction of the screen SC is parallel to the X-axis direction. In the screen SC, a center line CL, which is the bisector of the two opposing long sides, coincides with the center line of the projector 1 in a plan view. In other words, the projector 1 is disposed directly above the center line CL of the screen SC.

[0022] The projected image PM includes a plurality of objects QB. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of objects QB represents, for example, a goldfish. In other words, the user experiences a simulated "goldfish scooping" atmosphere through the projected image PM displayed on the screen SC. Furthermore, in order to allow the user to experience a simulated "goldfish scooping" atmosphere, the screen SC is positioned horizontally.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the projector 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the projector 1. 4, the projector 1 includes a projection unit 110 and a drive unit 120 that drives the projection unit 110. The projection unit 110 forms an optical image and projects image light PL onto a screen SC. In this embodiment, the projection unit 110 projects image light PL corresponding to image data from the projection control device 2 onto the screen SC. The projection unit 110 includes a light source unit 111, a light modulation device 112, and a projection optical system 113. The drive unit 120 includes a light source drive unit 121 and a light modulation device drive unit 122.

[0024] The light source unit 111 includes a solid-state light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a laser light source. In this embodiment, the light source unit 111 is described as including a solid-state light source, but is not limited to this. Instead of the solid-state light source, the light source unit 111 may include a lamp light source such as a halogen lamp, a xenon lamp, or an ultra-high pressure mercury lamp. The solid-state light source may be referred to as a light source in the following description.

[0025] The light source unit 111 may also include a reflector and an auxiliary reflector that guide the light emitted by the light source to the light modulation device 112. Furthermore, the light source unit 111 may also include a group of lenses for improving the optical characteristics of the projection light, a polarizing plate, or a dimming element that reduces the amount of light emitted by the light source on the path leading to the light modulation device 112. The light source driving unit 121 is connected to the internal bus 107, and controls the output of the light source by turning on and off the light source of the light source unit 111 in accordance with instructions from the first control unit 150, which is also connected to the internal bus 107. In this embodiment, the light source driving unit 121 controls the output of the light source in accordance with instructions from the projection control device 2, which will be described with reference to FIG.

[0026] The light modulation device 112 includes, for example, three liquid crystal panels 115 corresponding to the three primary colors of R, G, and B. R indicates red, G indicates green, and B indicates blue. That is, the light modulation device 112 includes a red liquid crystal panel corresponding to R light, a green liquid crystal panel corresponding to G light, and a blue liquid crystal panel corresponding to B light. The light emitted by the light source of the light source unit 111 is incident on the liquid crystal panel 115 .

[0027] Each of the three liquid crystal panels 115 is a transmissive liquid crystal panel that modulates light passing through it to generate image light PL. The image light PL includes red image light, green image light, and blue image light. The red image light is red image light that has been modulated after passing through the red liquid crystal panel. The green image light is green image light that has been modulated after passing through the green liquid crystal panel. The blue image light is blue image light that has been modulated after passing through the blue liquid crystal panel. The red image light, the green image light, and the blue image light are combined by a combining optical system such as a cross dichroic prism to generate image light PL, and the image light PL is emitted to the projection optical system 113. In this embodiment, the light modulation device 112 is described as having a transmissive liquid crystal panel 115 as a light modulation element, but is not limited to this. The light modulation element may be a reflective liquid crystal panel or a digital micromirror device.

[0028] The light modulation device 112 is driven by a light modulation device driving unit 122. The light modulation device driving unit 122 is connected to the image processing unit 145. Image data corresponding to each of the primary colors R, G, and B is input to the light modulation device driving unit 122 from the image processing unit 145. The light modulation device driving unit 122 converts the input image data into a data signal suitable for the operation of the liquid crystal panel 115. Based on the converted data signal, the light modulation device driving unit 122 applies a voltage to each pixel of each liquid crystal panel 115, and draws an image on each liquid crystal panel 115.

[0029] The projection optical system 113 includes a projection lens 113A that forms an image of the incident image light PL on the screen SC, a mirror, etc. The projection optical system 113 also includes a zoom mechanism that enlarges or reduces the image projected onto the screen SC, a focus adjustment mechanism that adjusts the focus, and a lens shift mechanism that adjusts the projection direction of the image light PL.

[0030] The projector 1 further includes an operation unit 131, a remote control receiver 133, an input interface 135, a storage unit 137, a first communication interface 141, a frame memory 143, an image processing unit 145, and a first control unit 150. The input interface 135, the storage unit 137, the first communication interface 141, the image processing unit 145, and the first control unit 150 are connected to each other via an internal bus 107 so as to be able to communicate data with each other.

[0031] The operation unit 131 includes various buttons and switches provided on the surface of the housing of the projector 1, generates operation signals corresponding to the operation of these buttons and switches, and outputs the operation signals to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 includes a circuit that outputs the operation signals input from the operation unit 131 to the first control unit 150.

[0032] The remote control light receiving unit 133 receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote control 5, decodes the received infrared signal, and generates an operation signal. The remote control light receiving unit 133 outputs the generated operation signal to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 includes a circuit that outputs the operation signal input from the remote control light receiving unit 133 to the first control unit 150.

[0033] The storage unit 137 is, for example, a magnetic recording device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a storage device using a semiconductor storage element such as a flash memory or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 137 stores programs executed by the first control unit 150, data processed by the first control unit 150, image data, etc.

[0034] The first communication interface 141 is a communication interface that communicates with the projection control device 2 in accordance with the USB (registered trademark) standard. The first communication interface 141 includes a connector for connecting a USB (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The first communication interface 141 is an interface board having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the first processor 150A of the first control unit 150 and the like are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that make up the first communication interface 141 are mounted on the main board of the first control unit 150. The first communication interface 141 receives various instruction information from the projection control device 2.

[0035] The first control unit 150 includes a first memory 150B and a first processor 150A. The first memory 150B is a storage device that nonvolatilely stores programs and data executed by the first processor 150A. The first memory 150B is configured by a semiconductor storage element such as a magnetic storage device or a flash ROM (Read Only Memory), or other types of nonvolatile storage device. The first memory 150B may also include a RAM (Random Access Memory) that configures the work area of ​​the first processor 150A. The first memory 150B stores data processed by the first control unit 150, the first control program executed by the first processor 150A, and the like.

[0036] The first processor 150A may be configured as a single processor, or multiple processors may function as the first processor 150A. The first processor 150A executes a first control program to control each unit of the projector 1. For example, the first processor 150A outputs to the image processing unit 145 an instruction to execute image processing corresponding to operations received via the operation unit 131 and the remote control 5, and parameters used for this image processing. The parameters include, for example, geometric correction parameters for correcting geometric distortion of the image projected on the screen SC. In addition, the first processor 150A controls the light source driving unit 121 to turn on and off the light source unit 111 in accordance with instructions from the projection control device 2, and also adjusts the output of the light source unit 111, i.e., the light intensity.

[0037] The first processor 150A may be configured as a system on chip (SoC) integrated with part or all of the first memory 150B and other circuits. The first processor 150A may also be configured as a combination of a central processing unit (CPU) that executes programs and a digital signal processor (DSP) that executes predetermined arithmetic processing. All of the functions of the first processor 150A may be implemented in hardware, or may be configured using a programmable device.

[0038] The image processing unit 145 and the frame memory 143 can be configured, for example, by an integrated circuit. Integrated circuits include large-scale integration (LSI), application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), and programmable logic devices (PLD). PLDs include, for example, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA). An integrated circuit may also include an analog circuit as part of its configuration, or may be a combination of a processor and an integrated circuit. The combination of a processor and an integrated circuit is called a microcontroller (MCU), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a system LSI, a chipset, or the like.

[0039] The image processing unit 145 expands the image data input from the first communication interface 141 into the frame memory 143. The frame memory 143 includes a plurality of banks. Each bank has a storage capacity capable of writing image data for one frame. The frame memory 143 is configured, for example, by an SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0040] The image processing unit 145 performs image processing such as resolution conversion, resizing, distortion correction, shape correction, and digital zooming on the image data stored in the frame memory 143 . The image processing unit 145 also generates a vertical synchronization signal by converting the input frame frequency of the vertical synchronization signal into a drawing frequency. The generated vertical synchronization signal is called an output synchronization signal. The image processing unit 145 outputs the generated output synchronization signal to the light modulation device driving unit 122.

[0041] Next, the configuration of the projection control device 2 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the projection control device 2. The projection control device 2 instructs the projected image PM to be projected by the projector 1. The projection control device 2 is configured, for example, by a personal computer.

[0042] 5, the projection control device 2 includes a second control unit 20. The second control unit 20 controls the operation of each unit of the projection control device 2. The second control unit 20 includes a second memory 22 and a second processor 21. The second memory 22 is a storage device that non-volatilely stores programs and data executed by the second processor 21. The second memory 22 is configured by a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage element such as a flash ROM, or other types of non-volatile storage device. The second memory 22 may also include RAM that configures the work area of ​​the second processor 21. The second memory 22 stores data processed by the second control unit 20, the second control program PG2 executed by the second processor 21, and the like. The second processor 21 corresponds to an example of a "processor."

[0043] The second processor 21 may be configured as a single processor, or multiple processors may function as the second processor 21. The second processor 21 executes the second control program PG2 to control each part of the projection control device 2. The second processor 21 also executes the second control program PG2 to instruct the projected image PM to be projected by the projector 1.

[0044] The second processor 21 may be configured as an SoC integrated with part or all of the second memory 22 and other circuits. The second processor 21 may also be configured as a combination of a CPU that executes programs and a DSP that executes predetermined arithmetic processing. All of the functions of the second processor 21 may be implemented in hardware, or may be configured using a programmable device.

[0045] In the following description, a case will be described in which the second processor 21 executes the second control program PG2 to instruct the projected image PM to be projected by the projector 1.

[0046] The second control unit 20 includes a distance calculation unit 211, a projection control unit 212, and an image storage unit 221. Specifically, the second processor 21 of the second control unit 20 executes the second control program PG2 stored in the second memory 22, thereby functioning as a distance calculation unit 211 and a projection control unit 212. In addition, the second processor 21 of the second control unit 20 executes the second control program PG2 stored in the second memory 22, thereby causing the second memory 22 to function as an image storage unit 221.

[0047] The image storage unit 221 stores a first image P1, a second image P2, and a third image P3 in advance. Each of the first image P1, the second image P2, and the third image P3 includes a plurality of objects QB. Each of the first image P1, the second image P2, and the third image P3 is a moving image. In this embodiment, each of the multiple objects QB represents a goldfish, and "size" represents, for example, the length of the goldfish.

[0048] When the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the size of the first smallest object QBS1, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1, is the first smallest size LS1. When the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the size of the first largest object QBB1, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1, is the first maximum size LB1.

[0049] When the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the size of a first average object QBA1, which is an object QB of average size among the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1, is a first average size LA1. The average size indicates the average length of each of the plurality of objects QB. Therefore, the object QB of the average size is, for example, the object of the plurality of objects QB whose size is closest to the average size. Each of the first minimum size LS1, the first maximum size LB1, and the first average size LA1 corresponds to an example of a "first size."

[0050] When the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the speed V at which each of the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1 moves is a first speed V1. When the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the average luminance of the first image P1 is a first luminance B1.

[0051] When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the size of the second smallest object QBS2, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2, is the second smallest size LS2. When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the size of the second largest object QBB2, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2, is the second maximum size LB2. When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the size of a second average object QBA2, which is an object QB of average size among the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2, is a second average size LA2. Each of the second minimum size LS2, the second maximum size LB2, and the second average size LA2 corresponds to an example of a "second size."

[0052] When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the speed V at which each of the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2 moves is a second speed V2. The second speed V2 is smaller than the first speed V1. When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the average luminance of the second image P2 is a second luminance B2, which is smaller than the first luminance B1.

[0053] When the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the size of the third smallest object QBS3, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the third image P3, is the third smallest size LS3. When the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the size of the third largest object QBB3, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the third image P3, is the third maximum size LB3. When the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the size of a third average object QBA3, which is an object QB of an average size among the multiple objects QB included in the third image P3, is a third average size LA3.

[0054] When the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the speed V at which each of the objects QB included in the third image P3 moves is a third speed V3. The third speed V3 is smaller than the second speed V2. When the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the average luminance of the third image P3 is a third luminance B3, which is smaller than the second luminance B2.

[0055] The distance calculation unit 211 acquires the distance LH from the screen SC to the user based on the detection result of the human sensor S. 1, the distance calculation unit 211 acquires the distance LH from the screen SC to the user's human body H based on the detection result of the human sensor S. The distance calculation unit 211 calculates, for example, the distance on a plan view between the human sensor SA that detected the human body H and the screen SC as the distance LH.

[0056] The processing performed by distance calculation unit 211 will be described below with reference to FIG. When the human sensor SA that detects the human body H is located in front of the screen SC, i.e., in front of the long side S1 in the negative direction of the X axis, the distance calculation unit 211 calculates the distance between the human sensor SA and the long side S1 in the front direction of the screen SC as the distance LH. When the human sensor SA that detects the human body H is located behind the screen SC, i.e., behind the long side S2 in the positive direction of the X axis, the distance calculation unit 211 calculates the distance between the human sensor SA and the long side S2 in the rear direction of the screen SC as the distance LH.

[0057] When the human sensor SA that detects the human body H is located to the left of the screen SC, i.e., to the left of the short side S3 in the negative direction of the Y axis, the distance calculation unit 211 calculates the distance between the human sensor SA and the short side S3 of the screen SC in the left direction as the distance LH. When the human sensor SA that detected the human body H is located to the right of the screen SC, i.e., to the right of the short side S4 in the positive direction of the Y axis, the distance calculation unit 211 calculates the distance between the human sensor SA and the short side S4 in the right direction of the screen SC as the distance LH.

[0058] When the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first projection image PM1 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the first smallest object QBS1 has a first smallest size LS1. The first smallest object QBS1 is the smallest object among the multiple objects QB. In other words, when the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first image P1 as the first projection image PM1.

[0059] When the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the second smallest object QBS2 has a second minimum size LS2. The second distance L2 is smaller than the first distance L1. The second minimum size LS2 is smaller than the first minimum size LS1. In other words, when the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2 as the second projected image PM2.

[0060] For example, when the distance LH is equal to or greater than a first threshold value TH1, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first image P1 as the first projection image PM1. Note that the first threshold value TH1 is equal to or less than the first distance L1 and is greater than the second distance L2. Furthermore, for example, when the distance LH is less than the first threshold TH1 and equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2 as the second projection image PM2. The second threshold TH2 is less than the second distance L2. Furthermore, for example, when the distance LH is less than the second threshold value TH2, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the third image P3 as the third projected image PM3.

[0061] For example, when the distance LH changes from the first distance L1 to the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2 instead of the first image. When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the speed V at which each of the multiple objects QB included in the second projected image PM2 moves is a second speed V2. The second speed V2 is smaller than the first speed V1. The first speed V1 indicates the speed V at which each of the multiple objects QB included in the first projected image PM1 moves when the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC.

[0062] Furthermore, for example, when the distance LH changes from the first distance L1 to the second distance L2, the projector 1 projects the second image P2 instead of the first image. When the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the average luminance of the second projected image PM2 is the second luminance B2. The second luminance B2 is smaller than the first luminance B1. The first luminance B1 indicates the average luminance of the first projected image PM1 when the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC.

[0063] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the "first size" is the first minimum size LS1 and the "second size" is the second minimum size LS2, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0064] For example, the "first size" may be a first maximum size LB1, and the "second size" may be a second maximum size LB2. In this case, for example, when the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first projected image PM1 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the first largest object QBB1 becomes the first maximum size LB1. The first largest object QBB1 is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, when the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second projected image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second largest object QBB2 becomes the second maximum size LB2. The second distance L2 is smaller than the first distance L1. The second maximum size LB2 is smaller than the first maximum size LB1. In this case, too, when the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control unit 212 simply causes the projector 1 to project the first image P1 as the first projected image PM1. When the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 simply causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2 as the second projected image PM2.

[0066] Also, for example, the "first size" may be a first average size LA1, and the "second size" may be a second average size LA2. In this case, for example, when the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first projection image PM1 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the first average object QBA1 is the first average size LA1. The size of the first average object QBA1 is the average-sized object QB among the multiple objects QB.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, when the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 causes the projector 1 to project a second projection image PM2 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second average object QBA2 becomes a second average size LA2. The second distance L2 is smaller than the first distance L1. The second average size LA2 is smaller than the first average size LA1. In this case, too, when the distance LH is the first distance L1, the projection control unit 212 simply causes the projector 1 to project the first image P1 as the first projected image PM1. When the distance LH is the second distance L2, the projection control unit 212 simply causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2 as the second projected image PM2.

[0068] Next, the first image P1, second image P2, and third image P3 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the transition of the projected image PM. As shown by the hollow arrows in Fig. 6, as the distance LH decreases, the projected image PM transitions in the order of the first image P1, the second image P2, and the third image P3. Also, as shown by the hatched arrows in Fig. 6, as the distance LH increases, the projected image PM transitions in the order of the third image P3, the second image P2, and the first image P1.

[0069] As shown in the upper part of Figure 6, when the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the size of the first smallest object QBS1, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1, is the first smallest size LS1. Furthermore, when the projector 1 projects the first image P1 onto the screen SC, the size of the first largest object QBB1, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the first image P1, is the first maximum size LB1.

[0070] As shown in the middle of Figure 6, when the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the size of the second smallest object QBS2, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2, is the second smallest size LS2. Furthermore, when the projector 1 projects the second image P2 onto the screen SC, the size of the second largest object QBB2, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the second image P2, is the second maximum size LB2.

[0071] As shown in the lower part of Figure 6, when the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the size of the third smallest object QBS3, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the third image P3, is the third smallest size LS3. Furthermore, when the projector 1 projects the third image P3 onto the screen SC, the size of the third largest object QBB3, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB included in the third image P3, is the third maximum size LB3.

[0072] Next, the processing of the projection control device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the projection control device 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the distance calculation unit 211 acquires a detection signal from the human sensor S in step S101. Next, in step S103, the distance calculation unit 211 calculates the distance LH between the user's body H and the screen SC.

[0073] Next, in step S105, the projection control section 212 determines whether the distance LH is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1. If the projection control section 212 determines that the distance LH is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S105; YES), the process proceeds to step S107. Then, in step S107, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the first image P1. After that, the process proceeds to step S115. If the projection control section 212 determines that the distance LH is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S105; NO), the process proceeds to step S109.

[0074] Then, in step S109, the projection control section 212 determines whether the distance LH is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2. If the projection control section 212 determines that the distance LH is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S109; YES), the process proceeds to step S111. Then, in step S111, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the second image P2. After that, the process proceeds to step S115. If the projection control section 212 determines that the distance LH is not equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S109; NO), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0075] Then, in step S113, the projection control section 212 causes the projector 1 to project the third image P3. After that, the process proceeds to step S115. Then, in step S115, the second control unit 20 determines whether or not the projection of the image by the projector 1 should be ended. If the second control unit 20 determines not to end the image projection by the projector 1 (step S115; NO), the process returns to step S101. If the second control unit 20 determines that the image projection by the projector 1 will end (step S115; YES), the second control unit 20 ends the image projection by the projector 1, and then the process ends.

[0076] [Embodiment and Effects] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 7, the image projection method of the projector 1 according to this embodiment includes the second processor 21 acquiring the distance LH from the screen SC to the user's body H based on the detection results of the motion sensor S that detects the user, and if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a first projection image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the first smallest object QBS1, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB, is a first minimum size LS1, and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second smallest object QBS2 is a second minimum size LS2 that is smaller than the first minimum size LS1.

[0077] That is, when the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projected image PM2 that includes multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second smallest object QBS2 is a second smallest size LS2 that is smaller than the first smallest size LS1. Therefore, when the user is close to the screen SC, it is possible to prevent the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the object QB. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately display multiple objects QB according to the distance LH.

[0078] Furthermore, the image projection method of the projector 1 may include the second processor 21 acquiring a distance LH from the screen SC to the user's body H based on the detection result of a human presence sensor S that detects the user, and if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a first projection image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a first largest object QBB1, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB, becomes a first maximum size LB1, and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a second largest object QBB2 becomes a second maximum size LB2 that is smaller than the first maximum size LB1.

[0079] That is, when the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projected image PM2 that includes multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second largest object QBB2 is a second maximum size LB2 that is smaller than the first maximum size LB1. Therefore, when the user is close to the screen SC, it is possible to prevent the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the object QB. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately display multiple objects QB according to the distance LH.

[0080] Furthermore, the image projection method of the projector 1 may include the second processor 21 acquiring a distance LH from the screen SC to the user's body H based on the detection result of a human presence sensor S that detects the user, and if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a first projection image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a first average object QBA1, which is an object QB of average size among the multiple objects QB, becomes a first average size LA1, and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projecting a second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a second average object QBA2 becomes a second average size LA2 that is smaller than the first average size LA1.

[0081] That is, when the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projected image PM2 that includes multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second average object QBA2 is a second average size LA2 that is smaller than the first average size LA1. Therefore, when the user is close to the screen SC, it is possible to prevent the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the object QB. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately display multiple objects QB according to the distance LH.

[0082] The image projection method of the projector 1 also includes that the second speed V2, which is the speed at which each of the multiple objects QB moves in the second projected image PM2, is smaller than the first speed V1, which is the speed at which each of the multiple objects QB moves in the first projected image PM1. Therefore, when the user is close to the screen SC, it is possible to prevent the user from being overly stimulated by the speed V of the object QB moving. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately display multiple objects QB according to the distance LH.

[0083] The image projection method of the projector 1 also includes the step of making the second brightness B2, which is the average brightness of the second projected image PM2, smaller than the first brightness B1, which is the average brightness of the first projected image PM2. Therefore, when the user is close to the screen SC, it is possible to prevent the brightness of the projected image PM from being excessively stimulating to the user. Therefore, the projected image PM can be displayed appropriately according to the distance LH.

[0084] In the image projection system 100 of this embodiment, the second processor 21 acquires the distance LH from the screen SC to the user's body H based on the detection result of the human presence sensor S that detects the user, and if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a first projection image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the first smallest object QBS1, which is the smallest object QB among the multiple objects QB, is a first minimum size LS1, and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of the second smallest object QBS2 is a second minimum size LS2 that is smaller than the first minimum size LS1. Therefore, the image projection system 100 according to this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the image projection method of the projector 1 according to this embodiment.

[0085] The image projection system 100 may also perform the following: the second processor 21 acquires the distance LH from the screen SC to the user's body H based on the detection result of the human presence sensor S that detects the user; and if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a first projected image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a first largest object QBB1, which is the largest object QB among the multiple objects QB, becomes a first maximum size LB1; and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projected image PM2 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a second largest object QBB2 becomes a second maximum size LB2 that is smaller than the first maximum size LB1. Therefore, the image projection system 100 can achieve the same effects as the image projection method of the projector 1.

[0086] The image projection system 100 may also perform the following: the second processor 21 acquires the distance LH of the human body H from the screen SC to the user based on the detection result of the human presence sensor S that detects the user; if the distance LH is a first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a first projection image PM1 including multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a first average object QBA1, which is the average-sized object QB among the multiple objects QB, becomes a first average size LA1; and if the distance LH is a second distance L2 that is smaller than the first distance L1, the projector 1 projects a second projection image PM2 including the multiple objects QB onto the screen SC so that the size of a second average object QBA2 becomes a second average size LA2 that is smaller than the first average size LA1. Therefore, the image projection system 100 can achieve the same effects as the image projection method of the projector 1.

[0087] [Other embodiments] The above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment, but is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0088] In this embodiment, a case will be described where the "projector" is configured with one projector 1, but the "projector" may be configured with two or more projectors.

[0089] In this embodiment, the projection control device 2 is configured as a personal computer, but the projection control device 2 may also be configured as a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.

[0090] In this embodiment, the case where the "processor" is the second processor 21 of the projection control device 2 will be described, but the "processor" may also be the first processor 150A of the projector 1.

[0091] 4 and 5 show functional configurations, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each functional unit individually, and it is also possible to configure a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of multiple functional units. Also, some of the functions realized by software in the above embodiments may be realized by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be realized by software. In addition, the specific detailed configurations of each unit of the projector 1 and the projection control device 2 can be changed as desired without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0092] 7 are divided according to the main processing content to make it easier to understand the processing of the second control unit 20 of the projection control device 2. There is no limitation to the division method or names of the processing units shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7, and the processing can be divided into more processing units depending on the processing content, or one processing unit can be divided to include more processes. Furthermore, the processing order of the above flowchart is not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0093] Furthermore, the image projection method of the projector 1 can be realized by having the second processor 21 of the second control unit 20 of the projection control device 2 execute a second control program PG2 that corresponds to the image projection method of the projector 1. Furthermore, the second control program PG2 can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium may be a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory device. Specific examples include portable or fixed recording media such as a flexible disk, HDD, CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD, Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, magneto-optical disk, flash memory, and card-type recording medium. The recording medium may also be a non-volatile storage device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device provided in the projection control device 2. The image projection method of the projector 1 can also be realized by storing the second control program PG2 in a server device or the like and downloading the second control program PG2 from the server device to the projection control device 2.

[0094] [Note] A summary of this disclosure is provided below. (Supplementary Note 1) An image projection method using a projector, comprising: a processor acquiring a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a smallest object that is the smallest of the plurality of objects is a first size; if the distance is a second distance that is smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the smallest object is a second size that is smaller than the first size.

[0095] This prevents the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the objects when the user is close to the screen, and therefore allows multiple objects to be displayed appropriately according to the distance from the screen to the user.

[0096] (Supplementary Note 2) An image projection method using a projector, comprising: a processor acquiring a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a largest object that is the largest of the plurality of objects is a first size; if the distance is a second distance that is smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the largest object is a second size that is smaller than the first size.

[0097] This prevents the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the objects when the user is close to the screen, and therefore allows multiple objects to be displayed appropriately according to the distance from the screen to the user.

[0098] (Supplementary Note 3) An image projection method using a projector, comprising: a processor acquiring a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that an average object of an average size among the plurality of objects has a first size; and if the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that an average object has a second size smaller than the first size.

[0099] This prevents the user from being overly stimulated by the size of the objects when the user is close to the screen, and therefore allows multiple objects to be displayed appropriately according to the distance from the screen to the user.

[0100] (Appendix 4) An image projection method of a projector described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, including the second speed, which is the speed at which each of the multiple objects moves in the second projection image, being smaller than the first speed, which is the speed at which each of the multiple objects moves in the first projection image.

[0101] This prevents the user from being overly stimulated by the speed at which the objects move when the user is close to the screen, and therefore allows multiple objects to be displayed appropriately according to the distance from the screen to the user.

[0102] (Appendix 5) An image projection method of a projector described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, including the second brightness being the average brightness of the second projected image being smaller than the first brightness being the average brightness of the first projected image.

[0103] This prevents the user from being overly stimulated by the brightness of the projected image when the user is close to the screen, and therefore allows the projected image to be displayed appropriately according to the distance from the screen to the user.

[0104] (Supplementary Note 6) An image projection system in which a processor acquires a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, a projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a smallest object that is the smallest of the plurality of objects is a first size; and if the distance is a second distance that is smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the smallest object is a second size that is smaller than the first size.

[0105] As a result, the image projection system described in Supplementary Note 6 achieves the same effects as the projector correction method described in Supplementary Note 2.

[0106] (Supplementary Note 7) An image projection system in which a processor acquires a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user, and if the distance is a first distance, a projector projects a first projection image including multiple objects onto the screen such that a size of a largest object that is the largest of the multiple objects is a first size, and if the distance is a second distance that is smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the multiple objects onto the screen such that a size of the largest object is a second size that is smaller than the first size.

[0107] As a result, the image projection system described in Supplementary Note 7 achieves the same effects as the projector correction method described in Supplementary Note 2.

[0108] (Supplementary Note 8) An image projection system, comprising: a processor acquiring a distance from a screen to a user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; if the distance is a first distance, a projector projecting a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that an average object of an average size among the plurality of objects has a first size; and if the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projecting a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that an average object of an average size among the plurality of objects has a second size smaller than the first size.

[0109] As a result, the image projection system described in Supplementary Note 8 achieves the same effects as the projector correction method described in Supplementary Note 3. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 100...image projection system, 1...projector, 111...light source unit, 115...liquid crystal panel, 150...first control unit, 150A...first processor, 150B...first memory, 2...projection control device, 20...second control unit, 21...second processor, 22...second memory, 211...distance calculation unit, 212...projection control unit, 221...image storage unit, B1...first luminance, B2...second luminance, B3...third luminance, H...human body, L1...first distance, L2...second distance, LH...distance, L A1...first average size (first size), LA2...second average size (second size), LB1...first maximum size (first size), LB2...second maximum size (second size), LS1...first minimum size (first size), LS2...second minimum size (second size), P1...first image, P2...second image, P3...third image, PG2...second control program, PL...image light, PM...projected image, PM1...first projected image, PM2...second projected image, PM3...third projected image.

Claims

1. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a smallest object among the plurality of objects is a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the smallest object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection method of a projector, comprising:

2. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a largest object among the plurality of objects is a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the largest object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection method of a projector, comprising:

3. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that the size of an average object, which is an object with an average size among the plurality of objects, becomes a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the average object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection method of a projector, comprising:

4. a second speed, which is a speed at which each of the plurality of objects moves in the second projection image, is smaller than a first speed, which is a speed at which each of the plurality of objects moves in the first projection image; The image projection method of claim 1 , further comprising:

5. a second luminance, which is an average luminance of the second projected image, being smaller than a first luminance, which is an average luminance of the first projected image; The image projection method of claim 1 , further comprising:

6. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a smallest object among the plurality of objects is a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the smallest object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection system that performs the above.

7. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of a largest object among the plurality of objects is a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the largest object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection system that performs the above.

8. A processor acquires a distance from the screen to the user based on a detection result of a sensor that detects the user; When the distance is a first distance, the projector projects a first projection image including a plurality of objects onto the screen such that the size of an average object, which is an object with an average size among the plurality of objects, becomes a first size; When the distance is a second distance smaller than the first distance, the projector projects a second projection image including the plurality of objects onto the screen such that a size of the average object is a second size smaller than the first size; An image projection system that performs the above.

Images