Binocular Image Controller Gaze-Driven Depth Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling perceived depth in stereoscopic images often fail to optimize depth across the image, leading to limitations in the binocular effect due to fixed depth budgets and lack of differential changes within the region of binocular interest.
Innovation Solution
A binocular imaging system that includes a display for presenting left and right eye images, a gaze tracking element to determine the region of binocular fixation, and an image controller that alters the displayed images based on the viewer's gaze direction, optimizing local image depth content within the region of fixation and its surroundings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed depth budget is used for the entire stereoscopic image, then the total binocular effect remains within acceptable limits, but the perceived depth cannot be optimized locally in different regions of the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stereoscopic image into multiple depth regions (foreground, midground, background) and applies different depth mapping strategies to each region. This segmentation allows the foreground region to receive enhanced depth budget allocation while the background region uses standard depth mapping, thereby optimizing local depth perception without exceeding the total binocular effect limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable depth mapping where the depth budget is dynamically allocated to different spatial regions based on their importance. The region of interest (e.g., foreground objects) receives higher depth priority and more aggressive depth scaling, while less important regions maintain standard depth representation. This local quality approach enables differentiated depth optimization across the image plane.
2Ease of manufacture
If the entire image uses uniform depth mapping, then processing is simpler, but the binocular effect is not optimized for regions of visual interest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static uniform depth mapping to dynamic variable depth mapping that adapts to the content of different image regions. The depth mapping parameters are adjusted dynamically based on scene analysis, identifying foreground objects and assigning them enhanced depth characteristics. This dynamic approach maintains processing efficiency while significantly improving binocular effect quality in regions of visual interest.
3Manufacturing precision
If depth budget is increased to enhance perceived depth, then local depth quality improves, but the total binocular effect may exceed acceptable limits causing viewer discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the depth mapping parameters selectively in different spatial regions rather than uniformly across the entire image. By changing the depth scale factor and offset parameters locally in the region of interest while maintaining standard parameters in other regions, the system enhances local depth quality without causing the total binocular displacement to exceed the depth budget, thereby avoiding viewer discomfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller that may implement variation of the content of binocular images which may depend upon which region of a binocular image a viewer is fixating. An aspect of the present disclosure may include locally controlling the viewer's perceived depth impression which may depend on where in perceived depth in an image the viewer is fixating. This may enable the perceived depth to be optimized across the image for quality and performance reasons.