Panoramic Projection Device Using Convex Mirror and 3D Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video projector systems for virtual and mixed reality applications are limited by the aperture of the projector, which restricts the volume or environment that can be projected upon, and multi-projector systems are costly and require complex coordination.
Innovation Solution
A single-projector device with a convex mirror that reflects and deforms the image to project it in a larger solid angle, allowing coverage of a 360-degree environment, combined with a camera for 3D environment modeling and radiometric correction to create a faithful virtual or mixed reality experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single projector is used to project images, then the device complexity is reduced, but the projection volume and environment coverage are limited by the projector aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension by sequentially projecting different images onto different facets of the volume over time. The projector projects a first image onto a first facet, then a second image onto a second facet, and continues this sequence to cover the entire volume. This temporal multiplexing allows a single projector to achieve what would otherwise require multiple simultaneous projectors, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and projection volume coverage.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple projectors are used to illuminate different facets of the volume, then the projection volume coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by sequentially projecting images onto different facets in a repeating cycle. The projector alternates between projecting onto the first facet, then the second facet, and continues this periodic sequence to illuminate all facets of the volume over time. This periodic temporal multiplexing allows complete volume coverage using a single projector, eliminating the need for multiple simultaneous projectors while maintaining comprehensive illumination.
3Volume of moving object
If the projector aperture is increased to expand projection volume, then the projection coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by making the projection target adaptable through temporal sequencing. Instead of a fixed wide-angle projection, the system dynamically switches between projecting onto different facets at different time intervals. The projector maintains a standard aperture but achieves variable coverage by sequentially adapting which facet receives the projection at each moment, providing both comprehensive volume coverage and projection adaptability without requiring a physically larger aperture.
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 panoramic projection onto all sides of a room without the limitations of traditional projector apertures, providing a cost-effective and immersive virtual or mixed reality experience with accurate color and light rendering.
Implementation Method 1
a mirror (3) arranged to reflect the image projected by the projector, and projecting onto the environment the image reflected by the mirror in a panoramic manner
Implementation Method 2
means for acquiring at least one image of the three-dimensional environment
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a projection method comprising: - projecting a parent image (23) along a projection axis (11), - reflecting at least a portion of the parent image by a convex mirror (3), - projecting the parent image reflected by the convex mirror onto a three-dimensional environment (7, 8a, 8b), - acquiring at least one image of the three-dimensional environment, - modeling the three-dimensional environment from at least one image of the three-dimensional environment, and - constructing the parent image based on the position of an observer (22) and the modeling of the three-dimensional environment, such that the observer, viewing the projection of the parent image onto the environment from their position, observes a scene from a virtual viewpoint (P). The invention also relates to the corresponding projection device.