Projector Self-Alignment via Feature Point Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projector alignment methods are cumbersome and inefficient, especially when projecting onto arbitrary or distant surfaces, as they require specific projection surfaces and cannot ensure high accuracy in projection position and size, particularly in applications like projection mapping.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus that acquires and stores projection surface information, allowing for the control of a projector to adjust its position on an arbitrary surface to match a previous projection state by detecting feature points and using correction parameters for deformation, scaling, and optical corrections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual alignment method is used for projector installation, then the projector can be installed on arbitrary surfaces, but the alignment process is cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection surface flexibilityVSAvoidalignment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The projector performs self-alignment by automatically detecting feature points on the projection surface and calculating correction parameters. The system captures images of the projection surface, detects feature points, and autonomously computes the projection correction parameters without requiring manual intervention or pre-installed markers, enabling the projector to align itself on arbitrary surfaces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated image processing and calculation system. Instead of physically adjusting the projector position and shape parameters manually, the system uses image capture, feature point detection, and mathematical computation to automatically determine the correction parameters needed for proper alignment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual alignment method is used for projector installation, then the projector can be installed on arbitrary surfaces, but the projection position accuracy is low

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection surface flexibilityVSAvoidprojection position accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system captures an image of the actual projection surface, detects feature points from this feedback image, and uses the detected feature point positions to calculate the projection correction parameters. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures high accuracy by base the alignment on actual surface characteristics rather than pre-set values

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Manufacturing precision

If automatic adjustment method with markers is used, then the projection position accuracy is improved, but the projection surface must be specific with markers set in advance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection position accuracyVSAvoidprojection surface flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The feature point detection method is designed to work on arbitrary projection surfaces without requiring specific marker patterns. The system can detect natural feature points on various surfaces (walls, screens, irregular surfaces), making the alignment method universally applicable to different projection scenarios and surface types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If projector is moved to a new installation position, then the projector can be used in different locations, but the alignment must be performed again which is troublesome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation location flexibilityVSAvoidreinstallation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-calculates and stores the projection correction parameters based on the detected feature points and projection geometry. These pre-calculated parameters are then used to automatically adjust the projection when the projector is installed, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment procedures during reinstallation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10134118B2Information processing apparatus and method of obtaining information about a projection surface on which a target is projected

Publication Date: 2018.11.20 CANON KK

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire information about a projection surface on which a projection unit projects a target image, a storage unit configured to store first information indicating a first position, on the projection surface, of the target image projected on the projection surface by the projection unit in a first projection state, and a control unit configured to control a position, on the projection surface, of the target image to move from a second position on the projection surface where the target image is projected by the projection unit in a second projection state to the first position on the projection surface.