Projector Image Correction Using Surface-Specific Pattern Images

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image correction methods for projectors lack convenience in user operation due to the lack of discussion on pattern images used for correction, leading to inefficiencies in correcting image shapes on non-flat surfaces.

Innovation Solution

An image correction method that selects between two different methods for correcting image shapes based on the type of projection surface, using distinct pattern images for each method to generate correction data, including a first method for non-flat surfaces and a second method for flat surfaces with defined contours, enhancing precision and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single pattern image is used for image correction, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different projection surfaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different projection surfacesVSAvoidcomplexity of correction process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects between a first pattern image and a second pattern image based on the detected type of projection surface. When the surface is non-flat, the first pattern image is used; when the surface is flat with defined contours, the second pattern image is used. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high versatility while managing complexity through conditional selection rather than constant multi-pattern support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If different pattern images are used for different correction methods, then the manufacturing precision of correction is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of image shape correctionVSAvoidconvenience of user operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects the projection surface type and selects the appropriate pattern image without requiring manual user input. The imaging device captures the projection surface characteristics, the processor analyzes whether the surface is non-flat or flat with contours, and the system autonomously chooses the first or second pattern image accordingly. This self-service approach maintains high correction precision while preserving ease of operation by eliminating the need for users to manually select correction methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple correction methods are implemented, then the adaptability to various projection surfaces is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapability to handle different surface typesVSAvoidnumber of correction methods
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The correction system is segmented into distinct correction methods, each associated with a specific pattern image for a specific surface type. The first correction method uses the first pattern image for non-flat surfaces, while the second correction method uses the second pattern image for flat surfaces with contours. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high adaptability by having specialized correction routines for different surface types, while managing complexity by clearly separating and organizing the correction methods rather than implementing a single complex unified approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12387303B2Image correction method, information processing apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US12387303B2 patent drawing
  • US12387303B2 patent drawing
  • US12387303B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image correction method according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes receiving an input of selecting one of a first method for correcting a shape of an image projected from a projector onto a projection surface and a second method that is a method for correcting the shape of the image and is different from the first method, outputting a signal for causing the projector to project a first pattern image when the first method is selected, generating first correction data for correcting the shape of the image using the first method based on a first captured image that is acquired by imaging the projection surface and includes the projection surface and a first projection image appearing on the projection surface by projecting the first pattern image, outputting a signal for causing the projector to project a second pattern image different from the first pattern image when the second method is selected, and generating second correction data for correcting the shape of the image using the second method based on a second captured image that is acquired by imaging the projection surface and includes the projection surface and a second projection image appearing on the projection surface by projecting the second pattern image.