Information Processing Device Projection Mapping Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies lack a straightforward method for generating images corresponding to display areas in the real world, particularly for projection mapping, AR, and MR applications, which hinders the creation of seamless and high-quality video projections.

Innovation Solution

An operation method for an information processing device that allows users to specify a designated area, display a first video image with a moving object within that area, and project it onto a target area, then optionally eliminate the first object to project a second video image, enabling easy generation and high-quality projection of images corresponding to real-world environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a technique is used to display images in real-world areas through projection mapping, AR, or MR, then the visual integration with the real environment is improved, but the complexity of generating and controlling the projected images increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of image generationVSAvoidcomplexity of projection control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the camera to capture a copy of the real-world display area and processes this copied image to generate the projection map. By working with a digital copy rather than directly with the physical space, the system simplifies image generation while maintaining accurate spatial correspondence, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The projection map serves as an intermediary that translates between the camera's coordinate system and the projector's coordinate system. This intermediary element simplifies the control process by providing a pre-calculated transformation relationship, reducing the complexity of real-time projection control while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If the projector projects video images into the projection target area, then the visual output in the real world is improved, but the precision of image alignment with the target area deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of image alignmentVSAvoidease of projection control
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by capturing the display area with a camera before projection, generating a projection map that pre-calculates the transformation from camera coordinates to projector coordinates. This preliminary mapping ensures precise alignment during actual projection without requiring complex real-time adjustments, thus maintaining precision while improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the camera to continuously monitor and adjust the projection mapping. By comparing the captured display area with the projected image and adjusting the projection map accordingly, the system maintains precise alignment automatically, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving ease of operation while preserving precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11431947B2Operation method for information processing device, program, and information processing device
Publication Date: 2022.08.30 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US11431947B2 patent drawing
  • US11431947B2 patent drawing
  • US11431947B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operation method for an information processing device having a display area used to generate a video image projected into a projection target area by a projector is provided. The method includes: in a first mode for generating the video image, specifying a designated part designated by a user in the display area; displaying, in the display area, a first video image showing a first object arranged in the designated part and a second object which moves in the display area and changes on reaching the designated part; and causing the projector to project the first video image into the projection target area; and in a second mode for the projector to project the video image into the projection target area, causing the projector to project a second video image resulting from eliminating the first object from the first video image, as the video image into the projection target area.