Multi-Projector Drive Schemes for Peak Luminance and Deep Blacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectors are limited by peak luminance, dynamic range, and cost efficiency, struggling to effectively reproduce images with varying characteristics over time, particularly in scenarios requiring high brightness and low black levels or vice versa.
Innovation Solution
A system combining multiple projectors with different performance characteristics, utilizing mathematical functions to optimize image quality and cost metrics, and employing control hardware to coordinate their operation, allowing for dynamic adjustment of image data distribution across projectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single projector is used with high peak luminance capability, then bright highlights can be achieved, but the black level performance and contrast deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image projection task into two separate projectors: one optimized for high peak luminance (bright highlights) and another optimized for low black levels (dark regions). This segmentation allows each projector to specialize in one aspect of image quality without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between achieving bright highlights and maintaining deep blacks.
2Manufacturing precision
If dual modulation is used to achieve deep black levels, then contrast improves, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using dual modulation within a single projector (which increases complexity), the patent segments the function across two separate projectors. Each projector uses simple single-stage modulation, but together they achieve the effect of dual modulation - one projector handles the bright portions while the other handles the dark portions, maintaining simplicity while achieving deep black levels.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple projectors are combined to achieve high dynamic range, then image quality improves, but the device complexity and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different image regions to different projectors based on their strengths. The first projector (optimized for high peak luminance) handles bright regions, while the second projector (optimized for low black levels) handles dark regions. This spatial distribution of functionality reduces coordination complexity compared to temporal methods, as each projector operates independently on its assigned regions.
4Illumination intensity
If higher light source power is used to achieve higher peak luminance, then brightness improves, but power consumption and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the luminance production task between two projectors, each operating at moderate power levels. The first projector uses higher power for brief periods to produce bright highlights, while the second projector operates at lower continuous power for the majority of the image. This segmentation reduces overall power consumption and heat generation compared to a single projector operating at high power continuously.
Data Source
AI summary
Light projection systems and methods may comprise combining light from two or more projectors. Each projector may be controlled so that the combined light output of the projectors matches a target for the projected light. In some embodiments optimization is performed to generate image data and control signals for each of the projectors. Embodiments may be applied in image projecting applications, lighting applications, and 3D stereoscopic imaging.