Projector Auto-Calibration Using ToF Screen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image projection devices require manual adjustment of focus, screen placement/size, and sharpness each time they are installed at a new location, leading to variability based on user skill.
Innovation Solution
An image projection device equipped with a ToF sensor, lamp assembly, operation unit, and processor that automatically adjusts focus, screen placement/size, and sharpness by measuring distance, projecting a pattern image, and using deep learning to detect screen coordinates and adjust image projection parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of focus, screen placement/size, and sharpness is required each time the device is installed, then the device can be flexibly installed at various locations, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and quality varies based on user skill
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically capturing images of the projection screen, detecting screen coordinates and corners, and pre-calculating the optimal projection parameters before the user completes installation. This preliminary automated setup eliminates the need for manual adjustment during installation, reducing installation time while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms by capturing images with a camera, analyzing the projection screen's position and shape, and automatically adjusting projection parameters based on the detected screen coordinates. This closed-loop feedback system ensures consistent image quality regardless of installation location or user skill level.
2Device complexity
If manual adjustment of focus, screen placement/size, and sharpness is required, then the device structure remains simple, but the installation quality becomes dependent on user skill
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the projection screen, calculating screen coordinates, and adjusting projection parameters without requiring manual intervention. The device captures its own projection output, analyzes it through image processing, and self-corrects any misalignment or focus issues, ensuring consistent installation quality while adding minimal complexity through automated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with automated image processing and coordinate detection algorithms. Instead of requiring users to physically adjust lenses and screen positions, the system uses computer vision and automated control to achieve the same results, improving reliability while keeping the physical device structure relatively simple.
3Productivity
If automated calibration is implemented using ToF sensors, cameras, and deep learning algorithms, then installation time is reduced and quality consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating the camera for both projection output capture and screen detection, using the same hardware component for multiple purposes. The processor handles both image processing and coordinate calculation, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and minimizing overall system complexity while maintaining high installation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a marker as an intermediary element to facilitate automated detection. The marker serves as a reference object that simplifies the computer vision algorithm's task of identifying screen corners and coordinates, making the complex detection process more reliable without requiring additional complex hardware.
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
Automatically adjusts focus, screen placement/size, and sharpness each time the device is installed or powered on, ensuring consistent image quality regardless of user skill.
Implementation Method 1
a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor configured to measure a distance to a target
Data Source
AI summary
An image projection device may comprise: a ToF sensor configured to measure a distance to a target; a lamp assembly configured to output an image signal including a pattern image; an operation unit which controls the lens assembly to move in one axis direction; and a processor which measures a distance to a screen by means of the ToF sensor and controls the pattern image outputted through the lamp assembly to be projected on the screen. The processor may calculate a sharpness value of the pattern image projected on the screen through the lamp assembly, and adjust the size of the pattern image and a position at which the pattern image is projected on the basis of the calculated sharpness value.