Synchronization System Using Periodic Bursts for Visual Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interactive data projector systems face challenges in synchronizing visual and input devices without interfering with remote controllers or reducing battery life, and in achieving precise timing and low interference across multiple units.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization system using infrequent, short bursts of NIR or RF signals to synchronize camera-based interactive projectors, pens, and other devices, allowing for cooperative operation without disturbing remote controllers, and optimizing power consumption and signal quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If continuous synchronization signals are transmitted to maintain precise timing between visual units and input devices, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but interference with remote controllers and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization bursts instead of continuous signals. The system transmits synchronization signals at specific intervals (e.g., at the start of each video frame or field), allowing precise timing alignment between projectors, displays, and input devices while leaving gaps where remote controller operations can occur without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization signal is segmented into discrete bursts rather than a continuous stream. Each burst contains essential timing information needed for synchronization, and these segmented signals are transmitted only when required, reducing overall signal presence in the environment and minimizing interference with remote controllers operating in the same frequency range.
2Measurement precision
If continuous illumination from pens or pointing devices is used to maintain tracking accuracy, then position detection precision is improved, but battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination source in pens and pointing devices operates periodically rather than continuously. The device emits light bursts synchronized with the camera's frame rate or at optimized intervals, providing sufficient light for position detection while allowing the illumination source to remain off during non-capture periods, significantly extending battery life.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-synchronizes the illumination timing with the camera's exposure schedule. The pen or pointing device receives synchronization signals and prepares its illumination to activate precisely when the camera is ready to capture, ensuring optimal detection conditions without requiring continuous illumination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple visual units operate simultaneously in the same environment, then system versatility is improved, but synchronization coordination becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization system uses a universal protocol that can be implemented across multiple different visual units (projectors, displays, cameras) simultaneously. All units understand and respond to the same synchronization signal format, allowing them to operate together in coordinated fashion without requiring unit-specific customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where visual units monitor and adjust their operation based on detected synchronization signals and environmental conditions. Units can detect the presence and timing of signals from other units and automatically adjust their phase or timing to maintain coordination, reducing the complexity of manual synchronization setup.
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
Ensures timely and coherent interactive events, reduces smearing, and extends battery life by accurately synchronizing flashing illuminants with camera shutters, while minimizing interference with remote controllers and maintaining high signal-to-noise ratios.
Implementation Method 1
A visual unit, system and method for the synchronization of visual and interactive visual systems using infrequent, short bursts which will not interfere nor will be interfered by, remote controllers
Implementation Method 2
A visual unit, system and method for the synchronization of visual and interactive visual systems using infrequent, short bursts of NIR or RF signals
Implementation Method 3
the camera captures a light from the interaction object synchronization with at least one burst of the received bursts
Implementation Method 4
their illumination function in terms of visual light and/or infrared light
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 2E~2H
AI summary
A visual system includes one or more units, where each unit is a displaying unit or a video camera, or a combination of both, and each unit has a receiver. The unit has a transmitter which starts transmitting infrequent, short repetitive bursts if no said bursts are received by said receiver; and otherwise transmits a delayed short burst synchronized to said infrequent, short repetitive bursts by said transmitter, in order to synchronize all units in the visual system to each other, while said infrequent, short repetitive bursts will not interfere nor will be interfered by the general use of remote controllers for other purposes.