Projected Image Correction via Embedded Pattern Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image correction methods are cumbersome and delay the projection of an image frame due to the need for a pre-projected pattern for distortion correction, especially in environments where the projection surface characteristics change.

Innovation Solution

An image correction method and apparatus that detect a pattern image by alternately inserting reference and offset patterns into consecutive image frames, allowing for real-time correction of geometric and color distortions without user awareness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a predetermined pattern is projected onto the screen before an image frame to correct distortion, then the distortion correction can be performed, but the correction process becomes cumbersome and delays the projection of the image frame

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistortion correction precisionVSAvoidprojection delay time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The pattern image is pre-generated and stored in memory before the actual projection. The system retrieves the pre-computed correction data and applies it immediately when projection is needed, eliminating the need for real-time pattern projection and measurement. This preliminary preparation of correction data resolves the contradiction by enabling fast correction without time loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of projecting a physical pattern image onto the screen for measurement, the system uses a digital copy of the pattern image that has been pre-processed to contain correction data. This digital copy is then applied directly to the image frame through software processing, eliminating the time-consuming physical projection and camera measurement steps while maintaining correction precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Manufacturing precision

If a pattern image is projected before the image frame to model screen characteristics, then the distortion can be corrected, but the process requires multiple steps and user awareness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharacteristic modeling precisionVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs distortion correction using pre-stored correction data without requiring user intervention or awareness. The correction process is fully automated through software that applies the correction data to the image frame, eliminating the need for users to understand or participate in the correction process while maintaining high modeling precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary correction data structure that bridges the pattern image and the final image frame correction. This correction data, which is pre-computed from the pattern image characteristics, serves as an intermediary that enables automatic correction without requiring direct interaction between the user and the correction process, thus simplifying operation while preserving precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If conventional correction methods are used, then distortion can be corrected, but the correction process is cumbersome and requires projection delay

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage correction precisionVSAvoidprojection efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The correction data is prepared in advance by processing a pattern image and storing it in memory. When projection is needed, the system retrieves this pre-computed data and applies it immediately to the image frame, eliminating the need for real-time correction calculations. This preliminary preparation significantly improves projection efficiency while maintaining high correction precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of projecting a physical pattern image and using a camera to measure it with a digital processing system. The pattern image is processed digitally to extract correction data, which is then applied through software algorithms to the image frame. This substitution of mechanical measurement with digital processing eliminates projection delays and improves overall system productivity while preserving correction accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8290271B2Method, medium and apparatus correcting projected image

Publication Date: 2012.10.16 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A method, medium and apparatus for correcting a projected image is provided. The method includes detecting a pattern image based on photographing information of consecutive image frames into which a reference pattern and an offset pattern corresponding to the reference pattern are alternately inserted and which are projected onto a projection surface accordingly, and correcting projected image frame, based on the detected pattern image.