Image Processor Adaptive 2D-3D Switching for Eye Strain Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

3D images with varying parallax or moving on a screen can cause discomfort to users, and there is a need for technology to seamlessly switch between 2D and 3D display modes on 3D devices based on user preference.

Innovation Solution

An image processor with a mode setting part and play control part that allows users to select between 2D and 3D display output modes, controlling the switching between images according to the chosen mode, using techniques like cross-fade and normal effects to minimize eye strain.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If 3D images with different parallax amounts are displayed consecutively, then the stereoscopic effect is enhanced, but user comfort deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestereoscopic effectVSAvoiduser comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the image switching method adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically selects between cross-fade and normal switching methods based on whether the current and previous images are both 3D images, thereby adapting the switching behavior to the content being displayed and preventing user discomfort while maintaining stereoscopic effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If 3D images are moved on the screen, then the display flexibility is improved, but user comfort deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay flexibilityVSAvoiduser comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts its behavior based on the display mode. When in 3D display mode, it applies cross-fade switching to maintain comfort, while in 2D mode it uses normal switching. This dynamic adaptation allows display flexibility without compromising user comfort in 3D mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If switching method is changed between 2D and 3D modes, then the adaptability to user preference is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser preference adaptationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by having the play control part continuously monitor the display output mode and adjust the image switching method accordingly. When the mode setting part changes from 2D to 3D or vice versa, the play control part receives this feedback and automatically selects the appropriate switching method, providing adaptability through a relatively simple feedback mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3288020B1Image processor
Publication Date: 2020.01.08 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • EP3288020B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3288020B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3288020B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A mode setting part (112) has a function to selectively set 2D and 3D display output modes. A play control part (132) changes the manner in which to control switching between display images in accordance with the display output mode set by the mode setting part (112). The play control part (132) changes the manner in which to control switching between the display images in accordance with the display output mode set by the mode setting part, wherein the play control part monitors the speed of motion of the display image and switches from 3D display output mode to 2D display output mode if the motion exceeds a given level.