Projector Units Self-Correcting Image Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems requiring multiple projectors to project images cooperatively need a computer for control, a camera for sensing, and complex programs, making them unsuitable for simple and cost-effective setups used by general users without technical expertise.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that forms a group of projection units to share and update correction information for image projection, allowing wireless communication and automatic adjustment of image positions, enabling easy cooperation among projection units without the need for a central computer or technical expertise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a computer and camera are used to control multiple projectors to project images cooperatively, then image projection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each projector unit autonomously performs image projection and captures its own projection image using its integrated imaging unit. The system eliminates the need for external cameras and central control computers by enabling projectors to self-measure and self-correct their projection positions and angles through the correction information updating unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging unit captures the actual projection image, and the correction information updating unit compares it with the intended projection data to generate correction information. This feedback loop continuously adjusts projection parameters to maintain accuracy without requiring external monitoring equipment.
2Manufacturing precision
If a camera and complex programs are used for sensing and controlling projectors, then image alignment precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The projector unit autonomously performs the entire alignment process by capturing its own projection image through the integrated imaging unit and automatically generating correction information. This eliminates the need for operators to use complex programs or technical knowledge, making the system easy to operate while maintaining high alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction information acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the captured projection image and the ideal projection state. This automated correction mechanism replaces complex manual adjustment programs, simplifying operation while achieving precise image alignment.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple projectors are controlled by a central computer, then image projection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control function into independent segments, with each projector unit autonomously managing its own projection and correction. This segmentation eliminates the need for a central control computer, reducing system complexity while maintaining projection accuracy through distributed self-control.
Solution Approach 2:
Each projector unit independently performs self-measurement and self-correction using its integrated imaging unit and correction information updating unit, eliminating dependency on central control infrastructure and simplifying the overall system architecture.
4Manufacturing precision
If correction information is shared among information processing apparatuses, then image projection accuracy is improved, but communication requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each projector unit maintains a copy of the correction information locally in its correction information storage unit, eliminating the need for continuous real-time communication. The correction information is updated and stored locally, allowing each unit to operate independently while maintaining synchronized projection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus and method that allow a plurality of projection units to project images more easily in cooperation. The information processing apparatus of the present technology forms a group for projecting one contents data in cooperation with other information processing apparatuses including projection units to project images and imaging units to shoot a subject and obtain shot images, shares correction information as information relating to correction made to images projected by the projection units of the information processing apparatuses belonging to the formed group among the information processing apparatuses belonging to the formed group, and updates the correction information for the subject information processing apparatus on the basis of the shot image obtained by shooting the image projected by the projection unit as a subject and the shared correction information. The present technology is applicable to projectors or cameras, or electronic devices including the both functions of projector and camera, computers controlling these devices, and others, for example.