Projector Size Determination Using Projected Test Patterns

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projectors have limited usage conditions for measuring the size of a projection screen, relying on a handle for distance measurement, which restricts the flexibility of projection size determination.

Innovation Solution

A projector that displays a selection image on the projection surface, allowing users to choose between methods for determining image size, including a method for measuring image length and another for adjusting image width, using optical devices and processing devices to project specific images for measurement and adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a handle is used for distance measurement, then the projection size can be measured, but the usage conditions are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveusage conditions for measurementVSAvoidmeasurement system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a projected image as a copy or representation of the actual projection screen size. By displaying a standardized test pattern image on the projection surface, the system allows users to measure the image dimensions instead of directly measuring the physical screen, thereby expanding usage conditions without adding complex measurement hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The projected test pattern image serves as an intermediary between the physical projection screen and the measurement process. Users can measure the image dimensions using simple tools like rulers or tape measures, and the system calculates the actual screen size based on the projected image dimensions and known image characteristics, eliminating the need for complex distance measurement devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple measurement methods are provided, then flexibility is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement methodsVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic selection of measurement methods through software control. The system can switch between different measurement modes (e.g., image dimension measurement, diagonal measurement, aspect ratio-based calculation) based on user input or detected conditions, allowing multiple measurement approaches without requiring multiple physical devices or complex hardware architectures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enhances the flexibility of size determination by providing multiple methods for users to measure or adjust image dimensions based on their specific conditions, improving usability and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

an optical device configured to emit image light indicating an image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Data Source

PatentUS20240333897A1Projector, method for controlling projector, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program
Publication Date: 2024.10.03 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US20240333897A1 patent drawing
  • US20240333897A1 patent drawing
  • US20240333897A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A projector includes: an optical device configured to emit image light indicating an image; a processing device; and a housing accommodating the optical device and the processing device, in which the processing device displays, on a projection surface using the optical device, a first image for selecting one method of a plurality of methods for determining a size of the image on the projection surface, the plurality of methods including a first method and a second method, displays, on the projection surface using the optical device when the first method is selected, a second image whose length is to be measured, and displays, on the projection surface using the optical device when the second method is selected, a third image whose width is changeable.