Passive, real-time correction of distorted images from a projector display system - 1095
- *Abstract
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Overview
Theuse of light projectors for information display is both widespread and common. Most, if not all, light projector systems are subject to display distortion, whether caused by perturbations of an electronic and/or mechanical nature (e.g., vibrations common to most viewing environments, such as ventilation system operation, doors closing, and so on), resulting in display mis-calibration. Previous solutions to this image distortion problem are inadequate because they involve iterative, menu-driven user interaction or physical alignment of the projector, both of which interrupt the use of the display. Our solution allows for continuous display without requiring the user to monitor or interact with the projector.
Invention
UK inventors are developing a technique to continuously monitor a light projection display system to determine when a distortion in the image occurs due to mis-positioning of the projector and correct that distortion. The system uses a camera to automatically detect when a projector's orientation has changed and rectifies the distortion in the image caused by the camera's disorientation. The technique distinguishes between distortions due to miscalibration and intentional/desired projector framebuffer changes.
A correlation score is calculated and optimizedby generating a predicted view based on the current framebuffer contents and correlating this prediction with the camera's captured image. Poor correlation scores indicate that the projector has moved and re-calibration and geometric correction is required. The system makes such corrections automatically, without requiring input from the user.
Applications
- entertainment
- information display in a business setting
- military
Advantages
- requires no monitoring or recalibration of the projection system by the user
- has minimal impact on frame-rate
IP Status: U.S. Patent No. 7,119,833
- Country/Region
- USA

