Generalized Normalization for Image Display Quality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motion picture projection systems face challenges in maintaining consistent image quality over time and across different theaters due to factors like light source degradation, reflections, and differences in projector characteristics, leading to potential viewing discomfort for patrons.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that normalize system characteristics and parameters within a virtual projector to enhance image data, using a generalized calibration process and feedback schemes to ensure consistent and improved image quality by modifying input image data based on real-time updates and environmental factors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual calibration and adjustment of projector characteristics is performed, then image quality can be optimized for specific conditions, but the system cannot maintain consistent image quality over time and across different theaters due to degradation and environmental factors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality consistencyVSAvoidimage quality stability over time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated feedback schemes where sensors measure actual projector characteristics (brightness, color, uniformity) and the system automatically adjusts image data to compensate for deviations. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains consistent image quality over time without manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between initial calibration precision and long-term reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-calibration and self-correction by automatically detecting changes in projector characteristics and adjusting image parameters accordingly. This self-service capability eliminates the need for repeated manual calibration, ensuring reliable image quality consistency across different operating conditions and time periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If automated image processing is implemented to compensate for projector variations, then image quality consistency can be maintained, but the computational complexity and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality consistencyVSAvoidprocessing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-calculates and stores correction parameters and lookup tables that map projector characteristics to optimal image adjustments. By performing computations in advance and storing results, the system reduces real-time processing complexity while maintaining reliable image quality consistency during actual operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system transforms complex image quality compensation into simple parameter adjustments by normalizing projector characteristics and using pre-computed correction factors. This approach simplifies the processing complexity while maintaining reliable image consistency through standardized parameter transformations rather than complex real-time calculations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If frequent calibration is performed to maintain image quality, then image degradation can be compensated, but the time and operational disruption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous automated monitoring and adjustment of projector characteristics during normal operation. Sensors continuously measure brightness, color, and uniformity parameters, and the system continuously applies corrections without interrupting picture projection. This eliminates the need for frequent manual calibration sessions, maintaining high measurement precision while avoiding time loss from operational disruptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The continuous feedback loop automatically detects and corrects image quality degradation in real-time during operation. By continuously monitoring projector characteristics and immediately applying corrections, the system maintains accurate image quality measurements without requiring periodic calibration interruptions, thus eliminating time loss while preserving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3522109B1Generalized normalization for image display
Publication Date: 2022.08.03 IMAX CORP
  • EP3522109B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3522109B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3522109B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Certain aspects relate to a method and system whereby any defined system characteristic, property, or parameter can be normalized for further improving the displayed image quality. The normalization processing can use a generalized calibration process and can normalize a system characteristic, or a system property, and / or parameter to result in a more uniform or accurately displayed image using a generalized image processing method.