HDMI Splitter for Dual-View 3D Gaming on Conventional TVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D TVs with limited dual-view mode capabilities restrict the development of games that support dual-view experiences, as most TVs in the market are not capable of this feature, and devices like the Sony PlayStation 3 can only drive one conventional TV due to a single HDMI-out port.
Innovation Solution
An HDMI splitter box is used to connect the PlayStation 3 to two conventional TVs, allowing dual-view gaming by transmitting dual-view 3D signals and controlling active shutter glasses to display separate monoscopic images to each player, enabling dual-view mode on conventional 3D TVs and separate TVs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional 3D TV with a single HDMI port is used, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is good, but the adaptability is limited as it cannot support dual-view gaming
Solution Approach 1:
An HDMI splitter box is introduced as an intermediary device between the PlayStation 3 and the 3D TV. The splitter box receives a single HDMI signal from the PS3, processes it to generate dual-view 3D signals, and outputs to two separate TVs. This intermediary device enables dual-view capability without modifying the original TV or console, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The video signal processing is segmented into separate functions: the HDMI splitter box handles signal duplication and formatting, while the active shutter glasses handle the temporal separation of left and right eye images. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in a specific task, enabling dual-view functionality through coordinated operation of multiple simpler components rather than requiring a single complex dual-view capable TV.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual-view mode is implemented on a 3D TV, then the versatility for gaming is improved, but the measurement precision of image separation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical or manual image separation methods with an electronic control system. The HDMI splitter box uses electronic signal processing to separate and route left and right eye images to appropriate time slots, while infrared or wireless control signals synchronize the active shutter glasses. This electronic substitution improves precision and reliability compared to manual or mechanical separation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through synchronization signals that coordinate the HDMI splitter box and active shutter glasses. The splitter box receives feedback about the state of the shutter glasses to ensure proper timing of image transmission, and the shutter glasses receive control signals based on the detected presence and state of paired glasses. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate image separation and prevents crosstalk between left and right eye images.
3Manufacturing precision
If active shutter glasses are used for dual-view, then the image separation quality is improved, but the loss of time for signal synchronization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HDMI splitter box performs preliminary processing of the video signal to pre-format and pre-synchronize the left and right eye images before transmission. The active shutter glasses are also pre-paired and pre-synchronized with the splitter box before the gaming session begins. This preliminary action ensures that when gaming starts, the synchronization is already established, minimizing real-time delays and reducing the loss of time during actual gameplay.
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 dual-view gaming on conventional 3D TVs and two separate TVs, increasing accessibility and attractiveness to game developers by allowing more users to experience dual-view capabilities without requiring dual-view capable 3D TVs.
Implementation Method 1
Active shutter technology uses rapidly switching LCD panels in a pair of glasses make alternate lenses opaque to the TV display
Implementation Method 2
a transmitter operable to transmit control signals to two or more active shutter glasses
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An image transfer apparatus comprises an input operable to receive a signal comprising two images for different respective non-stereoscopic viewpoints of a virtual environment, a first output operable to transmit a signal comprising the two images formatted as a stereoscopic image to at least a first display, and a transmitter operable to transmit control signals to at least two active shutter glasses, the control signals arranged to allow respective wearers of the glasses to only view a respective one of the two images.