Toroidal Display System for Uniform Vertical Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulator display systems fail to utilize high definition fixed matrix projectors effectively, resulting in non-uniform image resolution and limited field of view, which is inadequate for high fidelity pilot training and tactical applications, especially in terms of vertical resolution and space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A toroidal constant vertical resolution display system is implemented, using a unique rear projection screen geometry with a convex portion and a concave portion to maintain uniform vertical resolution across the field of view, allowing for a wide field of view without image distortion or excessive size, and utilizing a radial array of projectors to blend images seamlessly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If flat rear projection screens or dome shaped rear projection screens are used, then the display system can provide a wide field of view, but the vertical resolution is not constant and image quality deteriorates at the edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a toroidal curved screen geometry instead of flat or simple dome shapes. The toroidal surface is defined by rotating a constant vertical resolution elevation curve about a vertical axis, creating a surface where the curvature varies in both azimuth and elevation directions. This specific curvature profile ensures that projected images maintain constant vertical resolution across the entire field of view, resolving the contradiction between wide field of view and resolution uniformity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cross-cockpit collimated displays or front projected domes are used, then cockpit shadowing is prevented, but the facility size becomes large and multiple trainers cannot be installed in limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal/planar display arrangements (flat screens, domes) to a vertical toroidal geometry. By wrapping the display surface vertically around the cockpit in a toroidal configuration, the system eliminates shadowing issues while maintaining a compact footprint. The vertical dimension of the toroidal screen allows multiple trainers to be installed in the same facility without requiring large horizontal space.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If rear-projected circular dome is used, then cockpit shadowing is mitigated, but a relatively large number of projectors are required due to image distortion on the curved surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different curvature characteristics to different regions of the screen. The toroidal surface has varying radius of curvature in azimuth and elevation directions, optimized for the specific projection geometry. This local optimization of surface curvature allows standard fixed matrix projectors to project images with minimal distortion, reducing the number of projectors needed compared to uniform dome geometries.
4Manufacturing precision
If fixed matrix digital projectors are used instead of CRT projectors, then image resolution cannot be scaled without loss since the image source is a mechanically fixed array of image sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the projection system by using a toroidal screen with specific curvature profiles. This geometric transformation allows fixed matrix projectors to maintain optimal resolution across the entire display area. The constant vertical resolution elevation curve is designed to compensate for the fixed pixel structure of digital projectors, effectively allowing resolution to be maintained without scaling losses.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is generally directed toward a visual image projection and display system including a motion platform, a toroidal constant vertical resolution surface having a bottom portion mounted to the motion platform and capable of displaying a single substantially constant vertical resolution image by blending portions of adjacent projected images on the toroidal constant vertical resolution surface, a top surface screen intersecting the top portion of the constant vertical resolution surface defined by a circular azimuth curve, and a set of image projectors. The set of image projectors include a radial array of image projectors mounted on the motion platform that project a corresponding series of images via at least one mirror attached to the motion platform onto a convex portion of the toroidal constant vertical resolution surface, and at least one image projector that projects an image on the top surface screen.