Stack Projector Alignment Evaluation via Sequential Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

In image projection systems, it is difficult to identify and adjust projectors when multiple projectors project images in the same area, as existing methods require pattern images and cannot evaluate if each projector needs adjustment while projecting content.

Innovation Solution

An evaluation method that captures images at different timings, adjusts projector states, and evaluates whether a projector needs adjustment based on these images, ensuring proper alignment and adjustment of projectors in a stack projection system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple projectors project images in the same area simultaneously, then the productivity of the projection system is improved, but it becomes difficult to identify and adjust individual projectors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection system outputVSAvoidprojector identification difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the projection area into multiple regions, with each projector assigned to a specific region. This spatial segmentation allows individual projectors to be identified and adjusted independently while maintaining simultaneous operation of multiple projectors, resolving the contradiction between system productivity and projector identifiability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses color-coded markers or patterns projected by each projector to enable visual identification and differentiation of individual projectors. By assigning distinct color characteristics to each projector's output, the system maintains high productivity while enabling easy detection and measurement of each projector's state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Measurement precision

If pattern images are projected for adjustment, then the measurement precision of projector alignment is improved, but the loss of time for projection-off states increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojector alignment precisionVSAvoidprojection-off duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs projector alignment and adjustment during the initial setup phase using pattern images, establishing precise spatial relationships before normal content projection begins. This preliminary action ensures high measurement precision is achieved once, eliminating the need for repeated projection-off states during normal operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous monitoring and evaluation of projector states during normal content projection by analyzing image data from cameras or sensors. This allows the system to maintain measurement precision without interrupting the projection workflow, thereby reducing time loss from projection-off states

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Manufacturing precision

If projectors are adjusted frequently to maintain alignment, then the manufacturing precision of image projection is improved, but the productivity of the system deteriorates due to increased projection-off states

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage projection precisionVSAvoidsystem operational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism using cameras or sensors to continuously monitor projector alignment and image quality. The system automatically evaluates whether adjustment is needed based on captured image data, enabling precision maintenance with minimal interruptions to productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment of projector alignment by analyzing image data and automatically making corrections when deviations are detected. This self-service capability maintains manufacturing precision without requiring frequent manual interventions that would reduce productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11350067B2Evaluation method for image projection system, image projection system, and image projection control apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US11350067B2 patent drawing
  • US11350067B2 patent drawing
  • US11350067B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A first image, a second image, and a third image generated by a camera that captures a screen at a first timing, a second timing, and a third timing are sequentially acquired. The projection states of a first projector and a second projector at the third timing are caused to be the same as the projection states of the first and second projectors at the first timing. The projection state of the first projector is caused to differ from the projection state of the second projector at least one of the first timing or the second timing. Whether or not the first projector needs to be adjusted is evaluated based on the first image, the second image, and the third image.