Composite Filmmaking Tracking Marker Projector
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current filmmaking process involving chroma key compositing and match moving is cumbersome and costly due to the need for manual placement and removal of tracking markers, which requires significant time and skilled labor, and often results in image quality issues and distractions during filming and editing.
Innovation Solution
A system using a master control unit (MCU) and a tracking marker projector (TMP) that periodically projects tracking markers onto a backdrop synchronized with the camera's frame rate, allowing for the capture of images with and without markers, eliminating the need for manual marker removal and improving post-production efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual placement and removal of tracking markers is used, then tracking markers can be positioned accurately, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of placing and removing adhesive markers with an automated projector system that projects virtual markers onto the backdrop. The projector is controlled by a computer that automatically manages marker projection timing, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining precise marker positioning through digital control rather than physical placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of tracking markers from tangible adhesive materials to projected light images. By controlling projection parameters (position, timing, duration) through software, the system achieves accurate marker placement without the time-consuming manual application and removal processes associated with physical markers.
2Measurement precision
If tracking markers are kept on the backdrop throughout filming, then camera movement can be tracked accurately, but the markers distract during filming and editing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic projection of tracking markers rather than continuous presence. The projector displays markers only during specific time intervals synchronized with camera frame rates, allowing markers to be visible for tracking during certain phases while remaining invisible during others, thus eliminating distraction while maintaining tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms tracking markers from static physical objects to dynamic projected images that can be turned on and off. The marker projection is controlled to appear only when needed for tracking and disappear when not needed, creating a dynamic system that adapts its visibility based on production requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If tracking markers are removed manually in post-production, then image quality can be maintained, but the process is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the marker removal action in advance during the filming process itself. By controlling the projector to turn markers off between frames or during non-critical periods, the markers are automatically removed from the final footage without requiring manual intervention in post-production, thereby maintaining image quality while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs its own marker removal function through automated projection control. The projector is programmed to stop displaying markers at specific times, allowing the camera to capture clean frames without markers during critical shooting periods, eliminating the need for manual post-production removal and reducing both time and cost.
4Measurement precision
If multiple tracking markers are projected simultaneously, then camera movement can be tracked more accurately, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single projector device that can display multiple tracking markers by projecting multiple images simultaneously onto the backdrop. This one projector serves the function of managing multiple markers, eliminating the need for separate physical marker placement systems for each marker and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate multi-point tracking capability.
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 approach simplifies the filmmaking process by reducing post-production time and costs, maintaining image quality, and allowing filmmakers to review shots without distractions, while ensuring accurate compositing of background movements.
Implementation Method 1
a tracking marker projector (TMP) that periodically projects tracking markers onto a backdrop synchronized with the camera's frame rate
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods, for use in filmmaking involving a composite environment, are disclosed that provide tracking markers for image acquisition and allow, during post processing, for use of the tracking markers to ascertain camera movement during filming and compositing of to-be-inserted images into shots obtained by a cinematic camera without having to remove the tracking markers from the primary images that are composited.