Projector System with Actuated Camera for Spatial Content Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light projection systems lack the ability to dynamically and accurately project spatially-referenced content onto various surfaces within a space, failing to adapt to changes in the environment and user preferences effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a light projector, feedback camera, and a controller that uses stereoscopy techniques and actuator mechanisms to create a three-dimensional representation of the space, allowing for dynamic projection of visual content onto surfaces while maintaining perspective, and adapting based on user interactions and environmental changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional light projection systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot dynamically adapt to environmental changes and user preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability through actuators that enable the projection system to physically reposition and reorient itself in response to environmental changes and user interactions. The projection device can dynamically adjust its position, orientation, and projection parameters to maintain optimal viewing conditions and adapt to different spatial configurations, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that responds to real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through cameras and sensors that continuously monitor the projection environment, surface characteristics, and user presence. This feedback is processed by controllers that adjust projection parameters, device positioning, and content delivery in real-time, enabling the system to adapt to environmental changes and maintain accurate spatial referencing throughout operation.
2Measurement precision
If stereoscopy techniques and actuator mechanisms are added to create three-dimensional representation, then projection accuracy and perspective maintenance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cameras and optical sensors as intermediary devices that capture spatial information and feed it to processing systems. These intermediaries enable the construction of three-dimensional representations by capturing depth cues, surface geometry, and spatial relationships, which are then used to calculate accurate projection parameters and maintain proper perspective without requiring direct mechanical measurement of the projection space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical measurement and alignment systems with optical-based stereoscopy techniques. Instead of using mechanical devices to directly measure and map projection surfaces, the patent uses camera-based visual capture and computational processing to achieve precise spatial understanding and perspective maintenance, substituting mechanical complexity with optical and computational approaches.
3Ease of operation
If the system dynamically adjusts projection based on user presence and environmental changes, then user experience is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic sensing and adjustment cycles rather than continuous operation. Sensors periodically detect user presence and environmental conditions, and the projection system adjusts its parameters at discrete intervals based on these detections. This periodic action pattern reduces energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and adjustment while still providing responsive user experience enhancements when needed.
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 precise and adaptive projection of visual content onto different surfaces within a space, enhancing user experience by providing relevant and appealing visualizations that respond to user presence and environmental changes.
Implementation Method 1
a light projector (112) defining a camera focal axis and defining a projector field of view
Implementation Method 2
an outer reflector (124) defining a reflective surface, coupled to a distal end of the reflector support structure (122), and intersecting the projector field of view and the feedback camera (114) field of view
Data Source
AI summary
One variation of a method for augmenting surfaces within spaces with projected light includes: at a projector system during a first time period, projecting visual content onto nearby surfaces via a light projector integrated into the projector system and capturing a first scan of nearby surfaces, illuminated by the light projector, via an optical sensor integrated into the projector system; identifying a first space occupied by the projector system during the first time period based on features detected in the first scan; selecting a first augmented content source, from a first set of augmented content sources affiliated with the first space, associated with a first surface in the first space; articulating the light projector to locate the first surface in a field of view of the light projector; accessing a frame from the first augmented content source; and projecting the frame onto the first surface via the light projector.