Stereo Image Layer Offset Calibration for Convergence Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single lens stereo projection systems cannot adjust the convergence point of stereo images, leading to viewer discomfort due to misalignment when image content is displayed on different screen sizes, causing eye strain or fatigue.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for combining stereoscopic image layers that allows for calibration of the stereo image content for each display environment by adjusting the offset between left and right eye image pairs to control the perceived depth, enabling alignment of images to match the intended convergence point regardless of screen size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If stereo images are displayed using a single lens projection system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adjust convergence point is lost causing viewer discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stereo image into multiple layers (foreground layer, midground layer, background layer), each with independent offset control. This allows selective adjustment of convergence points for different depth planes without requiring mechanical adjustment mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between simplified single-lens projection and convergence control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic offset adjustment for different stereo image layers during playback. The offset between left and right eye images can be dynamically modified based on display environment characteristics, enabling convergence point adjustment software-controlled rather than mechanically, maintaining simplicity while providing adaptability.
2Area of stationary object
If stereo image content is displayed on a larger screen, then the display area is increased, but the perceived depth and alignment of objects is distorted causing eye strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the offset parameter between left and right eye images based on display screen size. When detecting that the stereo image is scaled for a larger display, the system automatically adjusts the horizontal offset to compensate for the scaling effect, maintaining proper convergence geometry and preventing eye strain even on larger screens.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback about the actual display environment (screen size, scaling factor) and uses this information to automatically adjust the stereo image offset. This closed-loop approach ensures that the perceived depth and alignment remain correct regardless of the display size being used.
3Area of stationary object
If the offset between left and right eye images is increased to fit larger screens, then the image coverage is improved, but the convergence point shifts causing objects to appear at incorrect depths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stereo image into multiple depth layers, each with its own offset control. This allows the overall image to be scaled for larger screens while maintaining precise convergence control for each layer, preventing the convergence point accuracy degradation that would occur with uniform scaling of the entire image.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of control by separating horizontal offset adjustment from vertical scaling. The offset between left and right images can be independently adjusted in the horizontal dimension while the image is scaled in the vertical dimension, allowing simultaneous optimization of both image coverage and convergence accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for stereoscopic pair layers includes aligning a left eye image and a right eye image of a first stereo image pair layer according to a first calibrated offset to produce an aligned first stereo image pair layer that appears at a first depth in a display environment. A left eye image and a right eye image of a second stereo image pair layer are aligned according to a second calibrated offset to produce an aligned second stereo image pair layer that appears at a second depth in the display environment that is different than the first depth. The aligned first stereo image pair layer and the aligned second stereo image pair layer combined to produce a calibrated stereoscopic image that is suitable for display.