Multi-Projector Image Clipping and Control for Overlap Alignment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi-projection systems face challenges in efficiently controlling multiple projectors, requiring significant time and effort for adjustments as the number of projectors increases.

Innovation Solution

A projection system and control method that utilizes an external controller to generate scenario files for individual projectors, which include commands for image clipping, geometric correction, and control signals, enabling easy control of multiple projectors through media servers connected via a network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a separate sensor device is used to detect projection position, then detection function is provided, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection position detectionVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device performs dual functions: capturing test images for focus adjustment and simultaneously detecting projection position through coordinate extraction from these same images. This eliminates the need for separate detection devices while maintaining accurate position measurement capability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own imaging device to perform both imaging and position detection functions. The imaging device captures images that serve dual purposes: for focus evaluation and for determining projection position coordinates, making the system self-sufficient without external detection equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If manual focus adjustment is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocus adjustment speedVSAvoidautomatic control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system captures test images at different focus positions, evaluates sharpness using autofocus evaluation values, and automatically adjusts the imaging lens based on the evaluation results. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables rapid automatic focus adjustment without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical focus adjustment with an automated optical-electrical control system. The imaging device and control unit work together to automatically determine optimal focus positions and adjust lens settings, substituting human operation with automated electronic control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If projection position is not accurately detected, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision of projection quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection qualityVSAvoidcoordinate detection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device serves multiple purposes: capturing test images for focus evaluation and simultaneously extracting coordinate information for projection position detection. This multi-functional approach achieves precise position detection without adding separate detection hardware.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The test image serves as an intermediary that carries both focus quality information and position coordinate information. By processing this single image source, the system simultaneously achieves focus optimization and position detection without requiring separate measurement systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP4311225B1Projection system and control method for projection system
Publication Date: 2026.04.29 PANASONIC PROJECTOR & DISPLAY CORPORATION
  • EP4311225B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4311225B1 patent drawingFigure 2(a)~2(c)
  • EP4311225B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A projection system is configured to project a first projection image and a second projection image onto a projection surface, with an end portion of the first projection image and an end portion of the second projection image overlapping each other. The projection system includes a first projector configured to project the first projection image onto the projection surface, and a second projector configured to project the second projection image onto the projection surface. The first projector is configured to acquire first projection image data and a first control signal, the first projection image data representing the first projection image that is a clipping of an original projection image, the first control signal being linked to the first projection image data and being for controlling driving of the first projector. The second projector is configured to acquire second projection image data and a second control signal, the second projection image data representing the second projection image that is a clipping of the original projection image, the second control signal being linked to the second projection image data and being for controlling driving of the second projector.