Alignment-manufacturing Patents (Class 348/190)
-
Patent number: 7209161Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting and correcting for physical misalignments of a pair of digital cameras creating a composite, three dimensional (3D) image of a target. The method involves using the distances from each of a pair of digital cameras to a target and determining correction offset values for one or the other of the images produced in the digital cameras to achieve pixel-to-pixel coincidence of the two images. The correction offset values are calculated and performed in real time and eliminate the need to physically remove a common platform on which the cameras are mounted from a mobile platform or other support structure, and to transport same to a laboratory environment for the needed calibration. Advantageously, the correction values are generated electronically and applied in real time as any misalignment between the cameras is sensed.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: German Von Thal, Gregory A. Roberts
-
Patent number: 7133066Abstract: A method of aligning a first image with a second image, the method includes approximately locating the second image; scaling the first image to the approximate size of the second image; positioning the scaled first image over the approximate location of the second image; generating a measure of fit between the first image and the second image; re-positioning the second image and repeating the above steps to obtain an increased measure of fit value.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2001Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: British Telecommunications public limited companyInventor: Alexandre J Bourret
-
Patent number: 7133148Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus for calibrating an output of an image output device, comprising an image input device configured to image an output of the image output device; and a test pattern generator having an output of a dynamic test patch area and a grating area connected to an input of the image output device and responsive to the image input device for adjusting an intensity level of the dynamic test patch area to match an average intensity level of the grating area.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: D. Amnon Silverstein
-
Patent number: 7090361Abstract: The present invention relates to projection systems, more particularly to a method for visualising test pattern grids in such a projection system. An array of adjustable, directed light sources is described, which is to be used as a test pattern generator for alignment of at least one projector. Each light source is fixed onto a surface from which it is movable with two degrees of freedom, preferably by putting the surface in plastic deformation. This can preferably be done with help of few tooling aids, and by using one hand only.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Barco N.V.Inventors: Geert Matthys, Johan Decock
-
Patent number: 6982744Abstract: A multi-point calibration method is provided for an imaging light and color measurement device. A light emitting surface with a plurality of light emitting areas is provided. The luminance or color of each light emitting area of the light emitting surface at a specific angle is measured using a spot measurement instrument. By aligning the spot measurement instrument with one of the light emitting areas at a time, the luminance or color of the light emitting areas of the light emitting surface is measured. A measurement of the light emitting surface is made with the imaging light and color measurement device. A matrix of correction factors is calculated to correct the areas as measured by the imaging light and color measurement device to be equivalent to those measured by the spot photometer. While a display device is measured by the imaging light and color measurement device, the measured luminance or color values thereof are corrected by the screen gain correction matrix.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Radiant Imaging, Inc.Inventor: David R. Jenkins
-
Patent number: 6963428Abstract: A system and method are disclosed which provide a look-down digital imaging device capable of scanning a calibration area included within such look-down digital imaging device to capture image data for the calibration area and calibrate itself based on analysis of such captured image data. More specifically, a preferred embodiment includes a calibration area that is integrated internally within the look-down digital imaging device. When performing calibration in such a preferred embodiment, the scan head of the look-down digital imaging device is operable to align itself with the calibration area to allow for a scan of the calibration area (i.e., the capture of digital image data of the calibration area). In one embodiment, a look-down digital imaging device does not achieve a focused scan of the calibration area, but is capable of utilizing captured unfocused digital imaging data for calibration.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: Robert G Gann
-
Patent number: 6879352Abstract: A convergence measuring apparatus and a measuring method thereof. The apparatus for measuring a convergence includes: a first camera for obtaining the certain pattern formed on the cathode ray tube; a light path dividing section for processing the certain pattern formed on the cathode ray tube into separate left and right stereo images; a second camera for obtaining the stereo images processed by the light path dividing means; an estimating section for estimating the position and posture of the certain pattern based on the stereo images obtained through the second camera; and a controlling section for measuring the convergence of the image obtained by the first camera, while compensating the convergence based on the estimated position and posture of the cathode ray tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2000Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wan-soo Kim
-
Patent number: 6850245Abstract: A display characteristics recognition apparatus has a color chart data output unit outputting a color chart data representative of a predetermined color chart to a display unit, a color name input unit for entering a name of a color of the color chart, and a display characteristics identification unit for determining display characteristics of the display unit in accordance with the color chart data outputted from the color chart output unit and the name of the color entered through the color name input unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2000Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Kimitaka Murashita, Shoji Suzuki, Masahiro Mori
-
Patent number: 6804569Abstract: Methods and apparatus implementing a technique for assembling a device, such as a digital convergence monitor, at more than one site where data is supplied from a first site to a second site and then the data is used in assembly of the device at the second site. In one implementation, a method for assembling a device at more than one manufacturing site includes: at least partially assembling a device at a first manufacturing site; adjusting the device at the first manufacturing site, where the adjustment is recorded in data; sending the data from the first manufacturing site to a second manufacturing site; assembling the device at the second manufacturing site; storing the data in the device; and adjusting the device at the second manufacturing site, where the adjustment at the second manufacturing site is recorded in the data.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.Inventors: Yasuyoshi Hirano, Tokitaka Ito, Yukio Murakami, Joseph Freitas
-
Patent number: 6753907Abstract: The present invention provides automatic correction of any distortions produced when computer projection displays are misaligned with respect to the projection surface (such as keystoning). Although sophisticated LCD projectors now offer partial solutions to this problem, they require specialized hardware and time-consuming manual adjustment. The two key concepts in the present invention are: (1) using an uncalibrated camera to observe the projected image; and (2) the image to be displayed is pre-warped so that the distortions induced by the misaligned projection system will exactly undo the distortion. The result is that an arbitrarily mounted projector (in an unknown orientation) still displays a perfectly aligned and rectilinear image.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2000Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Justsystem CorporationInventors: Rahul Sukthankar, Robert Stockton, Matthew Mullin
-
Publication number: 20030234865Abstract: A method of measuring the video quality on display devices of differing types and/or sizes based on a known display type and size, said method includes the steps of: (a) obtaining a subjective quality score of video sequences viewed on a first display device; (b) obtaining an objective quality score of the video sequences in step (a); (c) obtaining a subjective quality score on a second display device, wherein the second display device having at least one difference in size and type than the first display device; (d) estimating an objective quality score for the second display device based on a correlation between the subjective and objective scores of the first display device, and the subjective score of the second display device. An apparatus and system provide hardware and modules to permit the measurement of video quality and optional fine tuning of the video quality of the second display based on the objective video quality scores.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2002Publication date: December 25, 2003Applicant: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Walid Ali
-
Patent number: 6590620Abstract: In a CRT display apparatus, a horizontal distortion correction apparatus is provided for correcting horizontal distortion of an image by applying a residual phase to control the phase of a horizontal deflection current. The horizontal distortion correction apparatus corrects horizontal distortion of an image caused by an assembly error of the CRT display apparatus for displaying an image by scanning a video signal, based on a horizontal synchronizing signal included in the video signal. The horizontal distortion correction apparatus includes a PLL supplying the horizontal deflection current to a video signal controller for displaying an image on the CRT. A distortion-correcting waveform generator is operated by the user, applying a wave signal having a desired waveform to the PLL to provide a residual phase for the horizontal deflection current to control the phase thereof. As a result, the image without horizontal distortion is displayed on the CRT display apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Haruyasu Hirakawa
-
Patent number: 6559609Abstract: A raster center control circuit for a CRT-type display device that automatically determines a correct horizontal center position of a raster, regardless of a horizontal sync frequency input from a video card. The raster center control circuit includes a horizontal deflection circuit, electrically connected to a horizontal deflection yoke, to supply the horizontal deflection yoke with a parabolic wave signal used to determine a horizontal center position of the raster. A memory device stores predetermined values for raster control according to horizontal sync signal frequencies. A microprocessor determines a frequency of a horizontal sync signal and generates a raster control signal by converting one of the predetermined values stored in the memory device into a raster control signal according to the predetermined frequency.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1998Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sang-soo Jo
-
Patent number: 6512587Abstract: A method for determining whether an imager assembly outside of a camera body meets predetermined focus specifications, wherein the imager assembly includes an image sensor and a camera mounting plate having reference features adapted to cooperate with alignment features in the camera body to locate the image sensor at a predetermined focal plane, including the steps of: mounting the imager assembly onto an imager mounting apparatus having equivalent alignment features; and utilizing low-coherence light interferometry to determine whether the image sensor will meet predetermined focus specifications when mounted in a camera body.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Michael A. Marcus, Eric A. Dilella, Jiann-Rong Lee, Donald R. Lowry, Timothy M. Trembley
-
Patent number: 6507360Abstract: The display screen of a cathode ray tube is inspected. The arrangement with which the display screen is inspected comprises an adjustable mirror arrangement and an adjustable focal lens. By means of the arrangement, a set of sub-images is picked up, which sub-images are analyzed. The movable elements of the mirror arrangement and the focal lens are not moved during the image pick-up operation so as not to disturb the measurements. The difference data between picked-up images and standard images are generated in a unit, and errors are detected with reference to these difference data. These errors are preferably ordered as to magnitude and/or importance.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1999Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Wilhelmus G. M. Spapens
-
Patent number: 6483537Abstract: An apparatus and method for analyzing the brightness characteristics of a projected image and using the analyzed characteristics to improve the appearance of the projected image is disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, the brightness characteristics of the projected image are analyzed at selected points across the raster of the image. An analysis array or array of data elements including brightness components corresponding to detail elements is then generated. The data elements in the array are then used to create compensation signals that are applied to the projected image through, for example, an overlay of smoothing factors or generation of a smoothing curve, to enhance the quality or appearance of the image by improving the regularity of brightness in all areas of the image. This regularity of brightness across the full span of the image is useful as a general improvement to the image and as a compensation for projector or projection surface brightness anomalies.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1998Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Metavision CorporationInventors: Theodore Mayer, III, Peter J. Inova
-
Patent number: 6483538Abstract: A high precision sub-pixel spatial alignment of digital images, one from a reference video signal and another from a corresponding test video signal, uses an iterative process and incorporates spatial resampling along with basic correlation and estimation of fractional pixel shift. The corresponding images from the reference and test video signals are captured and a test block is overlaid on them at the same locations to include texture from the images. FFTs are performed within the test block in each image, and the FFTs are cross-correlated to develop a peak value representing a shift position between the images. A curve is fitted to the peak and neighboring values to find the nearest integer pixel shift position. The test block is shifted in the test image by the integer pixel shift position, and the FFT in the test image is repeated and correlated with the FFT from the reference image.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.Inventor: Shane Ching-Feng Hu
-
Patent number: 6462777Abstract: A color display characteristic measurement apparatus is provided with a first image pickup device for picking up an image of a first color component, a second image pickup device for picking up an image of a second color component, a measurement image generator for causing a color display apparatus to display a measurement image thereon, the measurement image being displayed in a single color to which both the first image pickup device and the second image pickup device are sensible, and a calculator for calculating, based on a first picked-up image of the first image pickup device and a second picked-up image of the second image pickup device, calibration data for calibrating a relative displacement between the first and second image pickup devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1998Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Minolta Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Hamaguri
-
Publication number: 20020113910Abstract: A convergence controlling apparatus and method, through which block scanning is performed to efficiently detect the output of an optical sensor before convergence control in a projection television. The apparatus includes a sensor provided at a predetermined position on the screen of the television for measuring the quantity of light sensed through the scanning of a predetermined video pattern; a pattern generator for generating a block pattern for scanning the surroundings of the sensor to determine a portion where the sensor is positioned and the video pattern for convergence control; and a convergence controller for controlling the convergence by controlling the scanning of the video pattern based on information on the position of the sensor, the information being detected using the block pattern generated by the pattern generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Il-hyun Ryu
-
Patent number: 6426770Abstract: A vacuum box, having a pair of soft X-ray windows for passing a soft X-ray generated by a soft X-ray source therethrough, is disposed in front of the soft X-ray source. A face plate for a color CRT is disposed at a rear side of the vacuum box. A color camera is arranged so as to observe a light emitting sate of an RGB phosphor screen of the face plate for the color CRT at a time where the soft X-ray generated from the soft X-ray source is irradiated on the face plate for the color CRT through the vacuum box. An image processing unit analyzes a color picture obtained from the color camera.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1999Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.Inventor: Yoshinori Hosokawa
-
Publication number: 20020047903Abstract: A method for evaluating a color picture tube includes displaying on a display surface of a color picture tube a measurement pattern including a plurality of first patterns arranged at different positions relative to fluophor dots of said color picture tube and a plurality of second patterns near said first patterns and sufficiently large relative to said fluophor dots. A first image is obtained using an imaging element to image said displayed measurement pattern. A second image is obtained using said imaging element to image while controlling light intake to allow brightness components of no more than about 1% of maximum luminance from said first image to be separated from noise and imaged. A third image is created by combining said first image and said second image while adjusting scales according to a light intake ratio. From said third image, display center positions of said plurality of first patterns is calculated using said second pattern positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2001Publication date: April 25, 2002Inventors: Hisae Shibuya, Tatsuo Horiuchi, Yoshinao Nozaki, Yoshio Yoshiwara
-
Patent number: 6356301Abstract: A method and an apparatus that verify the correct operation and calibration of a wobbling coil CRT monitor landing adjustment jig. The video test signal and the wobbling coil signal are disconnected from the CRT under test. The invention receives the video test signal and the wobbling coil signal and generates a modulated video test signal by modulating the video test signal with the wobbling coil signal. The modulated video test signal simulates a correctly adjusted CRT or a CRT with a known amount of misadjustment regardless of the actual state of adjustment of the CRT under test.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.Inventors: David Christian Steele, David Alan Jones, Darwen John Cook
-
Patent number: 6295083Abstract: High precision image alignment detection uses an iterative part pixel shift detection algorithm to accurately determine the displacement of a received image with respect to a reference image. An alignment pattern is inserted into the original image and a portion of the alignment pattern, such as a single line, also is stored as a reference image. Using cross-correlation the received image is compared with the reference image to locate the alignment pattern, and selected portions of the received image alignment pattern are then used in conjunction with the reference image to determine the total pixel shift of the received image. An integer pixel shift is determined by cross-correlation of the received alignment pattern with the reference image. Using the integer pixel shift to identify a starting point, data is extracted from the received alignment pattern about a specific feature and a part pixel shift is measured.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.Inventor: Alexander Kuhn
-
Publication number: 20010019358Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide an image calibration device capable of using a simple configuration to shield ambient external light, and to perform accurate image calibration processing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2001Publication date: September 6, 2001Applicant: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuji Waki, Tadashi Nishio, Akihiro Kubota, Masaki Higurashi
-
Patent number: 6285397Abstract: A system for automatically aligning video images on display devices such as cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors that use the processor and memory of a host computer to implement the alignment process. The system uses a host computer processor and previously generated correction factor data, representative of specific display distortion characteristics, to produce driver signals necessary to affect the alignment of video images on a CRT screen. The previously stored correction factor data may be retrieved from a characterization module within the display device or from any other convenient storage location. The correction factor data is processed by the host computer to produce correction control data which is transmitted, over a bi-directional serial connector, or a video connector, to the display device where the data is read by correction and driver circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1997Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Display Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: James R. Webb, Ron C. Simpson
-
Patent number: 6271879Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling and detecting the alignment of a color frame phase from a composite analog video signal decodes the composite analog video signal to produce a component digital video signal and to generate a color frame signal that represents the start of each color frame for the composite analog video signal. Based upon the color frame signal a flag signal is inserted into the component digital video signal. The component digital video signal is captured by an analyzer based upon the flag signal so that the captured component digital video signal is in color frame phase with a stored reference component digital video signal. Preferably the stored reference component digital video signal represents a test sequence having an integer number of color frames plus or minus one video frame.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1998Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Overton
-
Patent number: 6252626Abstract: Apparatus and methods for system and method for testing and aligning a CRT which can sequentially perform all of the tests needed to precisely align the CRT and provide real-time feedback for operator adjustments. The system can integrate each of the measurements and automatically verify measurements previously performed as required. An improved color CCD camera is also provided which can maintain focus irrespective of variations in the thickness and glass curvature of the CRT screen. Further, photodiode optical filter and lens assemblies and wobulator assemblies can be incorporated into the system to further improve the testing and aligning of the CRTs.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1997Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Image Processing Systems, Inc.Inventors: Eric S. Buckley, Bruce W. C. Lee, Branko Bukal, Wayne G. Dawe, Andrew G. Noonan, Todd R. Richardson
-
Patent number: 6246434Abstract: By connecting the module 1 to the BUS line 6 of the adjustable tester 5, and then, by inputting commands or data from the inputting/outputting means (adjusting means) 4 to the microcomputer 3, each device which constitutes said single module 1 is adjusted. The data set at this adjusting time for each adjustment of each device is stored in the built-in memory 2 of the module 1. By connecting this adjusted module 1 to the main unit 251 through the BUS line 6, a video apparatus is constructed, and the data for adjustment stored in the built-in memory 2 of the module 1 becomes usable as they are. Moreover, the built-in memory 2 of the module 1 can also add to its storage the data for the adjustment of each circuit (13, 18) in the main unit 251. Thus, a video apparatus, which does not require redundant checking and adjustment of a single module, is provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1997Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Tadao Takashima
-
Patent number: 6201569Abstract: A system and method for controlling a video display blanking signal so as to maintain a full display screen while minimizing interference with the displayed picture. To control the blanking signal one or more photosensors are placed at the periphery of the display screen. When a CRT overscans the screen at a sensor's location, the light from the CRT is incident on the sensor and the sensor generates a signal proportional to the amount of incident light. The sensor signal is used to adjust the CRT scan such that the CRT scan covers the screen but does not degrade the displayed picture.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Toshiyuki Kawashima, Mie Tomiuka, Tatsuya Watanabe, Shigeyuki Sano
-
Patent number: 6195123Abstract: A method of automatically adjusting a CRT color monitor screen and a CRT color monitor are provided in which the horizontal position and size in a horizontal frequency of 100 kHz or so are adjusted at an acceptable accuracy thus reducing the overall cost by steps of examining with a comparison circuit 6, a one-shot circuit 7, and a microcomputer 9 whether a location determining pulse overlaps with a synthetic signal or not while shifting the phase of the location determining pulse in relation to a horizontal synchronizing signal HD, detecting the location of picture signal part of a video signal relative to the horizontal synchronizing signal HD from the result of examination, and automatically adjusting the horizontal position and the horizontal size on the screen in accordance with the result of detection.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1998Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Assignee: Totoku Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeyuki Meguro, Mitsugi Yui
-
Patent number: 6140809Abstract: A received signal is converted in a frequency converter, an output from which is again frequency converted. The second converted output is detected by a detector and then converted into a digital signal to be stored in a memory. A spectrum display is provided by a display. A frequency sweep of local signals supplied to frequency converter is enabled. While holding the frequency sweep for the earlier stage suspended to receive one of the radio waves in service, a signal to the input of the frequency converter may be branched and demodulated by demodulation means. A vertical sync signal is separated in monitor processing means and the frequency of the local signal generator may be swept only during a no-modulation interval contained in a vertical blanking interval, thus extracting a carrier component and a noise component, the levels of which are determined to provide a measure of C/N.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1997Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: Advantest CorporationInventor: Wataru Doi
-
Patent number: 6104194Abstract: In a method for determining whether electronic charge has been accumulated on the inner surface of a cathode ray tube (10), at least one electron beam is generated within the cathode ray tube and is deflected so that it hits the inner surface of the funnel (14) of the cathode ray tube. The temperature of a portion of the cathode ray tube is measured and is compared with a reference temperature value. If the measured temperature is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, it is determined that the electronic charge has accumulated. If the measured temperature is below the reference temperature, then the electron beam or beams have become switched off and electronic charge may not have accumulated on the inner surface of the cathode ray tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony United Kingdom LimitedInventor: Hideo Kato
-
Patent number: 6057881Abstract: A system and method for performing convergence calibration, wherein the test patterns generated during the convergence procedure illuminate only one convergence sensor at a time. Since only one sensor is illuminated at a time, there is no need to switch among sensors in order to obtain sensor readings, and the sensors can share an A/D converter without such switching. Therefore, in a convergence apparatus according to the invention two or more sensor couplings are simply coupled to a shared coupling which is, in turn, coupled to the input of a shared A/D converter. Thus, no switching circuitry is required, it is not necessary to perform a sensor/sensor coupling association routine, and there is no need for a convergence subsystem memory.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Toshiyuki Kawashima, Tatsuya Watanabe
-
Patent number: 6052146Abstract: A circuit within a video monitor for making corrections during horizontal scan includes a data storage device containing information relating to a selected display parameter, an integrator receptive of the stored information and adapted to produce an integrated signal therefrom, and an amplifier receptive of the integrated signal for supplying signals to the video monitor based on the integrated signal. The information supplied from the data storage device to the integrator is encoded in a pulse density modulated waveform via a tri-state gate and a one-shot timer. The information stored in the data storage device is stored in bytes, each byte containing a "sign bit" and a plurality of data bits. The present invention also discloses the use of an on-screen display chip that uses stored fonts to generate a pulse-density modulated signal. Gradients between rows of fonts can be generated using selected fonts from a font gradient table or can be produced using an up-down counter.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1996Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: Display Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: James R. Webb, Ron C. Simpson
-
Patent number: 6020919Abstract: An image inspection system for inspecting a display screen establishes a plurality of measurement spots on a display screen to be inspected, and measures images at the measurement spots and displays measured results on a monitor display screen. The image inspection system establishes display spots corresponding to the measurement spots on the monitor display screen, changes the positions of the display spots in a highlighted manner depending on the differences between measured values of the measurement spots and preset reference values, and displays measured results by inter-connecting the changed positions of the display spots with line segments.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1997Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Masaru Fujii, Satoshi Takemoto, Tokio Takeuchi
-
Patent number: 6018361Abstract: An apparatus for measuring image qualities of a color display unit has an image quality sensor comprising a color video camera for imaging a display screen of the color display unit and a fixed-focus lens combined as an imaging lens with the color video camera. Image qualities of the color display unit are measured based on an image signal generated by the color video camera, and an image signal required to measure the image qualities is generated and supplied to the color display unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1997Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Masaru Fujii, Satoshi Takemoto, Tokio Takeuchi
-
Patent number: 6014168Abstract: A system for generating correction factor data that is representative of the distortion characteristics of a cathode ray tube. The correction factor data is stored with a cathode ray tube to allow later alignment of a video signal, or can be provided on a storage medium or on a network. Distortion data, and resultant correction factor data is generated for a series of discrete physical locations on the cathode ray tube screen. In this manner, the entire screen surface can be utilized to align a video image. Maximum correctable distortion data is also generated in accordance with the present invention to provide exit criteria for cathode ray tube manufacturers. The exit criteria is based upon maximum correction factor data that can be generated to correct distortions.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1996Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Assignee: Display Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: James R. Webb, Ron C. Simpson
-
Patent number: 6002426Abstract: A probe needle alignment device supports a probe card assembly with probe needles extending upward. A microscope includes a first eyepiece aligned with the probe needles in its field of view. A first video camera is positioned in optical alignment with the first eyepiece to view probe needles through the first eyepiece. An overdriver includes a transparent planar plate movably disposed between the microscope and the probe needles to displace contact tips of the probe needles through an overdrive distance. A mask plate has a plurality of spots located at positions corresponding precisely to positions of contact pads of an integrated circuit to be probe tested. A second video camera includes the spots within its field of view.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1997Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Cerprobe CorporationInventors: Gerald W. Back, Joseph A. Mirowski
-
Patent number: 5986696Abstract: A method and a gradient adjusting apparatus for automatically testing and correcting the gradients of a screen of a video display device such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) and a front case in a production assembly line before assembling the CRT and the front case, thereby reducing unnecessary operations and minimizing inferiority of the video display device. In addition, death from shock caused by a high voltage is prevented by automatically supplying the high voltage, a deflection voltage and a gradient test pattern to a CRT assembly which is transported through a conveyer belt.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jin-Hwoan Shin
-
Patent number: 5969756Abstract: A test and alignment system for an electronic display device comprises a test pattern generator to be connected to an electronic display device for causing images of video test patterns to be displayed by the electronic display device. A test fixture is positioned in front of the electronic display device to be tested and aligned. The test fixture includes a frame supporting a plurality of close-up optical sensors to sense and produce image signals corresponding to small areas of images displayed on the electronic display device and a plurality of wide-angle optical sensors behind the close-up optical sensors for sensing and producing image signals corresponding to large areas of images displayed on the electronic display device. A computer controls the test pattern generator and processes and analyses the image signals generated by the close-up and wide-angle optical sensors to perform a series of tests on the electronic display device.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1996Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Image Processing Systems Inc.Inventors: Eric Buckley, Branko Bukal, Wayne Dawe, Paul Farrer, Karoly G. Nemeth, Andrew Noonan
-
Patent number: 5943089Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a video probe for viewing an object and for viewing a device that acts on the object. In one embodiment, the video probe includes a first viewing channel having a viewing direction along a first optical axis to provide an image of the object, a second viewing channel having a viewing direction along a second optical axis that is substantially parallel to the first optical axis, and wherein the viewing direction of the second channel is substantially the same as the viewing direction of the first viewing channel, and an imaging system to receive the image of the object and the image of the device from the first and second viewing channels. Embodiments of the present invention are also directed to a method and apparatus for printing a pattern on a substrate using a printing screen having the pattern defined thereon.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Speedline Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Stephen B. Douglas
-
Patent number: 5926211Abstract: In a method of measuring a focus of a cathode ray tube, a predetermined image is displayed at a predetermined position on the screen of the cathode-ray tube. A focussing voltage of the cathode ray tube is changed under a condition that a distance from a reference position to a predetermined position in the image is detected. A change state of the detected distance is displayed on a display. Further, an image having representation of at least a vertical-direction line and a horizontal-direction line is employed as the predetermined image. A line sensor is located so as to cross both of the vertical-direction line and the horizontal-direction line to set a predetermined position of the line sensor as the reference position.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Tomoyasu Nakayabu
-
Patent number: 5923366Abstract: A system for performing beam convergence in video displays. The system is implemented through one or more convergence sensors, which are exposed to two distinct convergence test patterns. The first test pattern partially overlaps with one or more of the sensors to define a first covered area for each overlapped sensor, the portion of each sensor that is not overlapped defining a first uncovered area. The second test pattern overlaps the entirety of the first uncovered area for each sensor, the portion of each sensor that is not overlapped, therefore being the first covered area for each sensor. The output of the sensors when exposed to the first test pattern and the output of the sensors when exposed to the second test pattern are used to perform beam convergence calculations. The test patterns are selected in such a manner as to reduce the dynamic range requirement for the sensor output A/D converter(s).Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Toshiyuki Kawashima, Mie Tomiuka, Tatsuya Watanabe
-
Patent number: 5896170Abstract: A system for synchronous alignment of cathode ray tube (CRT) rasters by application of time variable rotation driver signals to the CRT rotation coil during trace of the raster. The system may be implemented by either digital or analog means of measuring and storing cathode ray tube raster distortion data as rotational correction factor data. The rotational correction factor data is used by device circuitry to generate and apply the required time variable rotation driver signals, to the CRT rotation coil, to effect the desired CRT raster alignment.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1996Date of Patent: April 20, 1999Assignee: Display Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: James R. Webb, Ron C. Simpson
-
Patent number: 5867152Abstract: A 3D display having a closed loop feedback system dynamically adjusting the scanning pattern of laser beams on-line to maintain pointing errors of all scanned images to a specified tolerance. A predetermined alignment pattern, preferably a matrix of dots with known coordinates, is periodically injected into the image data path, preferably during non-display periods. A grid is disposed on each of two mirrors which enter into two separate light paths and are scanned. The mirrors reflect the laser beams from the grid to an optical sensor for each beam, each sensor connected to an A/D converter and producing an output proportional to the intensity of the reflected light. The sensor output is an analog function of the light intensity impinging thereon. The digitized values are stored in a grid buffer which accumulates an entire intensity pattern of grid points.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Raytheon TI Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gary L. Sextro
-
Patent number: 5825414Abstract: A circuit within a video monitor for making corrections during horizontal scan includes a data storage device containing information relating to a selected display parameter, an integrator receptive of the stored information and adapted to produce an integrated signal therefrom, and an amplifier receptive of the integrated signal for supplying signals to the video monitor based on the integrated signal. The information supplied from the data storage device to the integrator is encoded in a pulse density modulated wave form via a tri-state gate and a one-shot timer. The information stored in the data storage device is stored in bytes, each byte containing a "sign bit" and a plurality of data bits.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Display Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: James R. Webb, Steven J. Lassman, Ron C. Simpson
-
Patent number: 5801768Abstract: Adjustment of an electron beam landing position during thermal expansion of a shadow mask in a color cathode ray tube (CRT) on a production line of color television receivers is performed by calculating an optimum compensation value and converting the compensated data into a coordinate value and displaying it on the screen to decrease the conducting time of the CRT, and improve accuracy and uniformity of purity adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1996Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasunobu Sudo, Toshimi Kobori
-
Patent number: 5801767Abstract: An image screen automatic adjustment apparatus for a video display monitor device is provided. The apparatus includes a microprocessor for handling the operation of the monitor device and for implementing the image screen adjustments. The monitor device has a switch for enabling the image screen automatic adjustment. Push button processor circuitry is coupled between the switch and the microprocessor for signalling to the microprocessor when the switch is enabled. Image inspection circuitry is coupled to the microprocessor for outputting horizontal and vertical image signals and horizontal front-back porch signals. When the image screen automatic adjustment switch is enabled, the image inspection circuitry provides the horizontal and vertical image signals and the horizontal front-back porch signals to the microprocessor for implementing an optimization analysis processing to obtain a set of optimized control parameters including a vertical size parameter V.sub.size, a vertical position parameter V.sub.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1996Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Amtran Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Trans Wu
-
Patent number: RE39750Abstract: An automated apparatus for producing and testing a bus-controlled television includes a camera, a bus control facility, an automatic connector, and a remote controller. The camera photographs a predetermined area near the automated apparatus and outputs an approach detection signal indicating if the television is located in such area. Also, the camera photographs the screen of the television when it is in the predetermined area and outputs a screen state signal which represents the information displayed on the screen. The bus control facility generates a television test signal based on the approach detection signal and transmits remote control signals to the television to select control items for testing various functions of the television. The automatic connector connects the television and the bus control facility when the television is located in the predetermined area to enable the bus control facility to transmit the television test signal to the television.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kyung-Ho Moon
-
Patent number: RE38537Abstract: A self-diagnostic arrangement for a video display apparatus and method effectuating the same is disclosed. The apparatus according to the present invention includes a cable connector, amplifiers and a cathode ray tube and comprises a microprocessor storing information on a display status, for selectively switching signals to generate horizontal and vertical sync signals for displaying a variety of self-diagnostic displays, an on screen display IC for supplying a blanking signal and a video signal correspondingly responsive to information supplied from the microprocessor and a H/V deflection circuit for supplying on screen display video. signals to the CRT. There is also provided a method of self-diagnosis, which comprises the steps of generating internal horizontal and vertical sync.signals sync signals of predetermined frequency levels and displaying self-diagnostic screens representing video component colors and a display status.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1999Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Young-Hee Kim