Dynamic Projection Mapping Calibration Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection mapping systems for animated figures in entertainment venues struggle to create realistic and contextually blended visuals, often resulting in unrealistic backlighting and limited ability to dynamically adjust images based on the figure's movement and environment.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic projection mapping system that includes a projector, multiple tracking cameras, and a calibration tool with light emitters and sensors, which establishes a common origin point for the projector and cameras using image data and sensor feedback to accurately project images onto animated figures, enabling realistic and immersive visuals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If an internally-positioned projector is used to project images through a semi-transparent projection surface, then the animated figure can be visually supplemented with predetermined images, but unrealistic backlighting or glow is generated across the semi-transparent projection surface
Solution Approach 1:
The projector is extracted from the animated figure and repositioned externally. This removes the source of unrealistic backlighting while maintaining the ability to project images onto the figure's projection surface, eliminating the glow effect that occurred when the projector was internally positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
A calibration tool with multiple light emitters and sensors is introduced as an intermediary device. This tool establishes a common origin point between the externally-positioned projector and tracking cameras, enabling precise alignment and accurate projection mapping without the need for internal projectors that cause backlighting issues.
2Adaptability or versatility
If predetermined images are projected onto animated figures with preprogrammed movements, then the figures can be visually supplemented, but the system lacks the ability to dynamically adjust images based on the figure's movement and environment
Solution Approach 1:
Tracking cameras continuously monitor the animated figure's position and movements, providing real-time feedback data. This feedback enables the system to dynamically adjust and remap projected images based on the figure's current state and environmental context, transforming a static projection system into an adaptive one.
Solution Approach 2:
The externally-positioned projector system with calibration tools serves multiple functions: it can project predetermined images, dynamically adjust images based on real-time tracking data, and adapt to different environmental conditions. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for internally-positioned projectors in each figure while providing enhanced versatility.
3Measurement precision
If a calibration tool with multiple light emitters and sensors is used to establish a common origin point, then accurate dynamic projection mapping is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light emitters and sensors are merged into a single integrated calibration tool that can be positioned once to establish a common origin point for all projectors and tracking cameras. This consolidation achieves high measurement precision without requiring separate calibration devices for each component, reducing overall system complexity.
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
The system allows for accurate and dynamic projection of images onto animated figures, enhancing their realism and contextual integration within the environment, providing an immersive experience by synchronizing projections with the figure's movements and position.
Implementation Method 1
A dynamic projection mapping system includes a projector configured to project visible light, The dynamic projection mapping system also includes a calibration tool with multiple emitters configured to emit infrared light
Implementation Method 2
a sensor configured to detect the visible light projected by the projector
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration tool for a dynamic projection mapping system includes a rigid body, a row of at least three light emitters disposed on the rigid body, and an additional light emitter disposed on the rigid body and offset from the row of the at least three light emitters. The calibration tool also includes a sensor disposed on the rigid body and configured to detect projected light.