Projection System Speaker Sound Control via Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projector systems lack the ability to dynamically adjust sound output based on installation state, limiting their versatility and acoustic performance in multi-projection setups.

Innovation Solution

A projection system incorporating a speaker section, a projector section, and an imaging section within a single apparatus unit, where the sound output state is controlled based on information estimated from captured images, allowing for dynamic adjustment of sound and image correction processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If projector systems are configured for multi-projection setups with image correction processing, then image quality and screen coverage are improved, but the system lacks dynamic sound output adjustment capability based on installation state

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the imaging unit and speaker unit into an integrated apparatus unit that works with the projector. The imaging unit captures images to determine installation state, while the speaker unit outputs sounds controlled based on that installation state information. This merging allows the system to gain adaptability without requiring separate complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging unit automatically captures images of the projection screen and determines the installation state without manual input. This self-service capability allows the system to autonomously adjust sound output based on its own operational state, eliminating the need for external control devices or manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If speaker output is increased to improve acoustic performance in multi-projection setups, then sound quality is improved, but the system cannot dynamically adapt sound output to different installation states

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacoustic performanceVSAvoiddynamic adjustment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging unit continuously captures images of the projection screen and determines installation state information, which is then fed back to control the speaker unit's sound output. This feedback loop enables the system to dynamically adjust acoustic performance based on real-time installation state, achieving both reliability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The speaker unit's sound output is made dynamic rather than fixed. The control unit adjusts sound parameters based on installation state information determined by the imaging unit, allowing the system to adapt to different mounting configurations (ceiling, wall, floor) and optimize acoustic performance for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate control systems are added to enable dynamic sound adjustment based on installation state, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound output control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging unit serves multiple functions: it captures images for determining installation state and also provides the basis for controlling speaker output. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated control devices, maintaining adaptability while minimizing added complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary that receives installation state information from the imaging unit and translates it into appropriate sound output control signals for the speaker unit. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall control architecture by using a single coordination point rather than multiple independent control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3340649B1Projection system and apparatus unit
Publication Date: 2020.04.29 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP3340649B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3340649B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3340649B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A projection system of the disclosure includes an apparatus unit and a controller. The apparatus unit includes a speaker section, a projector section, and an imaging section. The speaker section includes one or more speakers. The imaging section images a projection screen provided by the projector section. The controller controls a sound output state of the speaker on a basis of information indicating an installation state of the apparatus unit. The information is estimated on a basis of a captured image obtained by the imaging section.