Projector Calibration via Non-Linear Distortion Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video projector calibration techniques are time-intensive, require significant user interaction, and are often inaccurate, especially for laser projectors with non-uniform distortion characteristics, leading to suboptimal image quality and realism in ambient lighting conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for calibrating projectors with non-uniform distortion characteristics using a processing element that generates a perspective projection matrix and determines a non-linear mapping function by analyzing calibration images and patterns, allowing for accurate distortion mapping and correction, enabling precise image projection on a projection surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional calibration techniques are used for laser projectors, then the calibration process is simple to perform, but it is time-intensive and requires significant user interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system performs automatic calibration without requiring significant user interaction. The processing element automatically analyzes calibration images, generates perspective projection matrices, and determines non-linear mapping functions to correct distortion, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for manual user involvement in the calibration process
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pre-projected calibration patterns and pre-captured calibration images to perform calibration automatically. By having the calibration pattern projected and captured in advance, the processing element can analyze the data and generate correction parameters without requiring real-time user input or interaction during the calibration process
2Loss of time
If conventional calibration techniques are used, then the calibration process is quick, but it is often not very accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration adjustments with automated computational methods. The processing element uses image analysis algorithms to automatically generate perspective projection matrices and non-linear mapping functions, substituting manual measurement and adjustment with digital processing to achieve higher accuracy without increasing time consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the calibration approach by introducing non-linear mapping functions that accurately model the projector's distortion characteristics. Instead of using simple linear transformations, the system determines complex non-linear parameters from calibration images to precisely correct distortion, significantly improving calibration accuracy
3Illumination intensity
If laser projectors are used to increase brightness and color gamut, then image quality improves, but non-uniform distortion characteristics make calibration difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system addresses non-uniform distortion by determining non-linear mapping functions that specifically model the projector's distortion characteristics. The processing element analyzes calibration images to generate distortion correction parameters that account for variations in distortion across the projection surface, enabling accurate calibration despite the complex non-uniform distortion introduced by laser projector optics
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration pattern and calibration image serve as intermediaries between the projector and the correction system. By projecting a known calibration pattern and capturing it with a camera, the system creates an intermediate data set that the processing element can analyze to determine accurate distortion correction parameters, simplifying the overall calibration process
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for calibrating a projector. The method includes projecting a test pattern onto a scene or an object within the scene and capturing the test pattern using a camera. Once the test pattern image has been captured by the camera, the method further includes estimating by a processing element a perspective projection matrix, warping the estimated projection matrix based on a non-linear distortion function, and modifying the projector to project light based on the distortion function. The present disclosure also relates to a presentation or projection system including two types of projectors for projecting an output presentation having a second image overlaid on a first image.