Projection Surface Qualification Module for Augmented Reality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Augmented reality environments face challenges in effectively qualifying and selecting suitable surfaces for projecting virtual or computer-generated images, as existing systems struggle to accurately assess and adapt to the characteristics of various surfaces within the environment, leading to potential image distortion and user discomfort due to reflective surfaces.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a projection surface qualification module that uses parameters such as desired effective resolution, maximum permissible image distortion, and user preferences to determine and select suitable surfaces for projection, while employing structured light patterns and camera imaging to assess surface data, including orientation, topography, and optical characteristics, and specifically designating highly reflective surfaces as unsuitable for projection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If projection is performed on highly reflective surfaces, then brightness may be enhanced, but image distortion occurs and user comfort deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection brightnessVSAvoidimage quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the reflective properties of surfaces to its advantage by measuring reflectivity with a camera and structured light, then using this information to select appropriate projection parameters or alternative surfaces. The harmful reflection is converted into useful measurement data that guides the projection process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts projection parameters based on surface reflectivity measurements. By changing projection intensity, angle, or selecting different surfaces based on measured reflectivity parameters, the system optimizes image quality while preventing distortion on highly reflective surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the system assesses all surface characteristics in detail, then projection quality improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesurface assessment accuracyVSAvoidqualification system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the existing camera and projector components to perform surface assessment functions. The camera captures images that are analyzed to determine surface properties, and the projector itself is used to project test patterns for reflectivity measurement, eliminating the need for separate sensing hardware.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The camera serves multiple functions: capturing environment images for surface identification, projecting structured light patterns for topography assessment, and measuring reflectivity. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high assessment accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If the system projects images on suitable surfaces, then image quality improves, but the time required for surface qualification increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection surface suitabilityVSAvoidsurface qualification time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs surface qualification assessments before actual projection begins. By pre-evaluating surface properties such as reflectivity, topography, and orientation, the system identifies suitable projection surfaces in advance, allowing for faster real-time projection without compromising quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces complex mechanical surface scanning mechanisms with optical methods using camera imaging and light analysis. This substitution significantly reduces qualification time while maintaining assessment accuracy, as optical measurements are instantaneous compared to mechanical scanning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enables precise selection of projection surfaces, minimizing image distortion and ensuring user comfort by excluding highly reflective surfaces, thereby providing a more effective and user-friendly augmented reality experience.

Implementation Method 1

employing structured light patterns and camera imaging to assess surface data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStructured light patterns: Light

Implementation Method 2

project images onto surfaces within the environment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8840250B1Projection screen qualification and selection

Publication Date: 2014.09.23 AMAZON TECH INC

AI summary

An augmented reality environment allows interaction between virtual and real objects. Various surfaces within the environment such as walls, tables, countertop, chairs, floor, ceiling, and so forth may be used as projection surfaces. Qualified projection surfaces are determined, and an initial projection surface is selected for use from these. This selection may take into account user preferences, user orientation, types of image to be projected, and so forth. Other qualified projection surfaces may have visual indicators projected thereon, indicating relative suitability for use as a projection surface.