Dynamic Image Projection on Moving Objects via Structured Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection systems face challenges in accurately projecting images onto moving objects, as they require cumbersome adjustments to track motion and often result in distorted images due to relative motion between projectors and target objects.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a computing device that stores geometry data of objects, projects structured light, captures images with a camera, determines object position and orientation, and generates a transformed image to be projected onto predefined portions of the object, ensuring accurate and undistorted image placement despite movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple projectors are used to track multiple moving objects, then image projection coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single projector is configured to project images onto multiple different objects by dynamically adjusting its projection target based on object detection. The system uses a camera to detect objects and a processor to determine which object should receive the projection next, allowing one projector to serve multiple objects sequentially rather than requiring one projector per object
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches the projection target between different objects based on their movement and detection. The projector adapts its projection behavior in real-time by receiving object position information from the camera and processor, allowing it to track and project onto moving objects without physical repositioning
2Measurement precision
If projector moves to track object motion, then image accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical approach of physically moving the projector with a computational approach. Instead of mechanically repositioning the projector to track objects, the system uses a camera to detect object positions and a processor to calculate the appropriate projection target, then directs the stationary projector to the calculated position electronically
3Device complexity
If projection system remains stationary, then device complexity is reduced, but image distortion increases due to relative motion
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the camera continuously detects object positions and movements, the processor analyzes this information to determine the current projection target, and the projector adjusts its output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows the stationary projector to compensate for relative motion between itself and moving objects, preventing image distortion without adding mechanical complexity
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
Enables precise projection of images onto moving objects by tracking their position and orientation, maintaining image accuracy and stability without the need for multiple projectors or complex calibration, effectively addressing the challenges of relative motion.
Implementation Method 1
a light source connected to the computing device and configured to project structured light onto the projection area
Implementation Method 2
a camera connected to the computing device and configured to capture an image of the projection area during the projection of structured light
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for projecting images onto predefined portions of objects in a projection area. The system includes a computing device, a projector and a camera. The computing device stores a digital model of an object, and an image containing a reference to the digital model. The projector, or another light source, projects structured light onto the projection area, and the camera simultaneously captures an image of the projection area. The computing device receives the captured image, determines a position and orientation of the object by comparing the digital model to the captured image, and then generates a canvas image including a version of the image which has been transformed to match the determined position and orientation of the object. The projector projects the canvas image onto the projection area. The transformed image is thereby projected onto a predefined portion of the object.