Projector Module Predistortion for Curved Vehicle Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ascertaining predistortion data for projecting image content onto curved surfaces within a vehicle interior is complex due to the surface's geometry, leading to image distortions that existing methods struggle to correct effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing machine vision and photogrammetric techniques to determine the relative pose of a projector with respect to the target surface, using geometry data from CAD models and camera images, allowing for automatic calculation of predistortion data to correct distortions caused by curved surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional methods are used to ascertain predistortion data for curved surfaces, then image distortions can be corrected, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual measurement and calculation methods with an automated optical system. A camera captures images of the target surface, and computer vision algorithms automatically extract geometric features and calculate predistortion data, substituting mechanical measurement processes with optical-digital hybrid methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the target surface itself as the measurement reference. By detecting natural geometric features directly on the curved surface, the method eliminates the need for external markers or auxiliary measurement devices, allowing the surface to serve its dual purpose as both projection target and measurement object.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine surface geometry, then predistortion data can be obtained, but the process requires physical markers and additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical surface geometry through photogrammetric methods. The camera captures optical information of the target surface, and image processing algorithms generate a digital 3D model, replacing physical measurement tools with optical copying and digital reconstruction techniques.
3Manufacturing precision
If the projection system is configured for curved surfaces, then image quality improves, but the system weight increases due to additional cameras and markers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the projector unit. The projector itself serves as both the illumination source for projection and the reference for geometric measurement. The processing unit handles both projection control and image analysis, eliminating the need for separate camera and marker systems, thereby reducing overall system weight while maintaining curved surface projection capability.
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 contactless, automatic correction of image distortions on curved surfaces throughout the system's lifetime, improving projection quality without the need for physical markers or additional cameras, and reducing weight in aircraft applications.
Implementation Method 1
A camera (10) is placed in a known relative pose with respect to the projector (4). The camera (10) is aligned such that at least part of the target surface (13) lies within the field of view of the camera (10).
Implementation Method 2
The relative pose of the projector (4) with respect to the target surface (13) is ascertained from the ascertained relative pose of the camera (10) to the target surface (13) and from the known relative pose of the camera (10) to the projector (4). The ascertainment is effected by means of machine vision
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for ascertaining predistortion data (2) for a projection from a projector (4) onto a target surface (13) with known geometry data, a camera (10) is placed in a known relative pose (RKP) with respect to the projector and aligned toward the target surface (13), the relative pose of the camera with respect to the target surface (RKZ) is ascertained from a camera image by means of machine vision, and the relative pose (RPZ) of the projector (4) with respect to the target surface (13) is ascertained herefrom and from the relative pose (RKP), and the predistortion data (2) are ascertained on the basis of the geometry data and of the relative pose (RPZ) of the projector (4) with respect to the target surface (13).A projector module (22) contains a calculation unit (3) for performing the method, and the projector (4) and the camera (10).The camera (10) of the projector module (22) or in the method is used for optically monitoring the interior (5).An interior camera is used as the camera (10) of the projector module (22) or in the method.