Smartphone Camera Viewer Positioning Algorithm

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for optimizing viewer positioning relative to display devices are complex and impractical for general-purpose viewing devices like TVs, computers, and smartphones, which require specialized hardware and software.

Innovation Solution

A method using a ubiquitous smartphone camera to capture images, apply a positioning algorithm to determine the viewing angle, and display a user interface indicating optimal positioning, allowing users to adjust for the best viewing experience without specialized mechanisms on the display device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a mechanical positioning mechanism with camera and image processing algorithm is used to position the viewer, then the viewer positioning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewer positioning accuracyVSAvoidhardware and software complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical positioning mechanism with a software-based solution using the device's existing camera and screen. Instead of physically adjusting the display or viewer position with motors and sensors, the system uses image processing algorithms to analyze the captured image and provide visual feedback for positioning. This substitutes complex mechanical systems with software-based measurement and control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the device's own built-in camera and screen to perform the positioning function, rather than requiring external specialized equipment. The smartphone or tablet uses its existing components (camera for image capture, screen for displaying feedback) to enable self-positioning, making the device self-sufficient for this function without adding external specialized hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If specialized mechanisms are added to the display device for viewer positioning, then the viewer positioning capability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewer positioning capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the existing camera and screen serve multiple functions: the camera is used both for its primary purpose (photography/video) and for viewer positioning detection, while the screen serves both as the display and as the reference object for positioning analysis. This multi-functionality adds viewer positioning capability without requiring specialized components, maintaining ease of manufacture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The display device uses its own built-in camera and screen to enable viewer positioning, eliminating the need for external specialized mechanisms. By leveraging existing components already present in smartphones and tablets, the solution maintains manufacturing simplicity while adding adaptive positioning capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If external specialized equipment is used for viewer alignment, then the image uniformity and resolution are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage uniformity and resolutionVSAvoiduser operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system captures an image of the screen, analyzes the viewer's position relative to the optimal viewing angle, and displays visual feedback (such as alignment indicators or directional cues) on the screen. This feedback loop guides the user to adjust their position until optimal alignment is achieved, improving ease of operation through intuitive visual guidance rather than requiring complex manual adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a software-based visual feedback system. Instead of using motors, sensors, or mechanical actuators to physically position the viewer, the system uses image processing and visual cues displayed on the screen to guide the user's self-positioning, significantly simplifying the operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12142000B2Method and system for optimizing a viewer position with respect to a display device
Publication Date: 2024.11.12 CBS INTERACTIVE INC
  • US12142000B2 patent drawing
  • US12142000B2 patent drawing
  • US12142000B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for positioning a viewing device relative to a display, the display by leveraging the capability of a user device, such as a smartphone. An image of the display is captured using a camera and a positioning UI is superimposed over the image to indicate positioning.