Projected Image Combined With Real Object Patents (Class 353/28)
  • Patent number: 8970933
    Abstract: A HUD device includes a stepper motor, which rotates a reflection mirror for adjusting a display position of a virtual image. The stepper motor has an electric stabilization point and a mechanical stabilization point. A control system controls a drive signal for the stepper motor to change by a step angle at every predetermined period Ts in response to an adjustment instruction inputted from an adjustment switch. The control system continues to apply the drive signal until the electric stabilization point is attained even after the adjustment instruction is stopped to operate the stepper motor in a powered rotation mode. The stepper motor then operates in an inertia rotation mode toward the mechanical stabilization point is attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuya Sasaki, Hideyuki Nakane
  • Patent number: 8970852
    Abstract: A laser projector for chassis alignment has a laser light source emitting a laser light beam, an optical element which generates a structured laser light pattern when it is irradiated by the laser light beam, a detector which is situated in such a way that it is irradiated by a sub-area of the structured laser light pattern and generates an output signal which is correlated with the radiation, and an evaluation unit which compares the output signal generated by the detector with at least one predefined setpoint value and turns off the laser light source if it detects a significant deviation of the output signal from the setpoint value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Guenter Nobis, Steffen Abraham, Matthias Gebhard, Ulrich Kallmann
  • Patent number: 8960916
    Abstract: A method and system of advertising that involves projection of a logo or advertisement from a drinking glass. The logo or advertisement projecting glassware has a light source that projects the inserted film when the glass is lifted, and wherein the projection is turned off when the glassware is placed on a solid surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Timothy R Boals
  • Patent number: 8950870
    Abstract: A projection display device (100) capable of providing a virtual keyboard function to the user, using a light source of a pico projector, is discussed. According to an embodiment, the projection display device includes a light source unit (110) configured to emit lights; a light combining unit (120) configured to generate a leakage light from the lights emitted by the light source (110) unit and to selectively combine the lights from the light source unit (110); an image projection unit (130) configured to project an image using the combined light from the light combining unit (120); and a virtual input unit (140) configured to project an input unit image (150) using the leakage light from the light combining unit (120).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ho Joong Kang, Seung Gyu Lee, Sang Sik Jeong, Oh Jin Kweon
  • Patent number: 8936366
    Abstract: There is provided a robot that includes a processor executing instructions that determine a desired image to be displayed. The processor issues control signals corresponding to the desired image to be displayed. The robot also comprises a display assembly including a visual projector, a mirror, and a display surface. The visual projector and mirror are disposed within the robot. The visual projector projects light corresponding to the desired image onto the mirror. The mirror receives the light from the projector, and reflects the light onto the display surface. The display surface receives the light. The image is visible on the display surface from outside the robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Efstathios Papaefstathiou, Russell Sanchez, Nathaniel T. Clinton
  • Patent number: 8919969
    Abstract: A system for on-product projection and display of electronic content. The system includes a projector for projecting electronic content, a mirror film stack having a reflective surface facing the projector, and a product having an exterior surface facing the reflective surface of the mirror film stack. A graphic is located on a surface of the mirror film stack opposite the reflective surface. The electronic content from the projector is projected onto the exterior surface of the product via the reflective surface of the mirror film stack. The graphic can be located on a display window and hide the mirror from a viewer without completely blocking a view of the projected electronic content. The product can include a removable projection screen for displaying the electronic content, and the projection screen can include a removable label on its non-viewer side to advertise or promote the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Rolf W. Biernath, Matthew C. Robbins, Ellyar Y. Barazesh, David A. Harper
  • Patent number: 8919963
    Abstract: A projector includes: an image modulation section that modulates light emitted from a light source in accordance with a video signal to form an optical image; a projection section that enlarges and projects the optical image; a drawing area setting section that sets a drawing area within an image modulation area where the light is modulated to form the optical image, the drawing area being an area where a template image is drawn; and a template image generating section that generates the template image to be drawn in the drawing area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Yutaka Yasuda
  • Publication number: 20140375957
    Abstract: A discrete area circuit board projection system is provided. The system comprises a controller that executes a circuit board discrete area program based on a circuit layout and generates video signals associated with images of components and/or pins to be displayed in a discrete area location of a circuit board assembly, and a display system that receives the video signal and displays the images of components and/or pins in the discrete area location of the circuit board assembly to facilitate at least one of assembly, test and diagnostic repair of the circuit board assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventor: JOHN R. APPERSON
  • Publication number: 20140362348
    Abstract: A display system for displaying images on a textured surface. The system includes a display device with a monitor having a screen operable to output light associated with still or animated images. The system further includes an optical block comprising a plurality of optical fibers bonded together to define parallel guide paths. First ends of the optical fibers define a first block surface and second ends of the optical fibers define a second block surface. The first block surface is positioned adjacent the screen to receive and transmit the output light along the guide paths to the second block surface. The system includes a textured display element covering the second block surface for receiving light exiting the second block surface and having a non-planar exterior surface emitting or projecting the received light. The textured display element has a body with an optical index matching that of the optical fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: DANIEL M. JOSEPH, David A. Shirley
  • Patent number: 8899757
    Abstract: A portable video production system includes a stand, a prompter portion, a mirror, a piece of glass, and a measuring device. The stand includes a table and a plurality of legs, and is configured to adjust a height of the legs based on a height of a user. The prompter portion includes a plurality of legs and a plurality of supports, and the supports extend between the legs of the prompter portion. The mirror is connected between first and second supports of the plurality of supports, and is configured to reflect a display of a laptop. The piece of glass is connected between third and fourth supports of the plurality of supports, and reflects the reflection of the display from the mirror to provide a reflected image to the user and to enable a video to be filmed through the glass without the reflected image appearing in the video. The measuring component is connected to the table, and extends from the table and being of a first specific length to indicate a first distance for the user to stand from the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Wizards of Ads, SunPop Studios Ltd.
    Inventor: Roy H. Williams, IV
  • Patent number: 8899756
    Abstract: A projection system for projecting a still or video image onto a liquid surface. The system includes an agitation mechanism selectively operable to generate gas bubbles on the liquid surface. The system includes a tracking system tracking a location, size, and shape of the gas bubbles on the liquid surface. The system also includes a projector projecting a video stream onto the gas bubbles based on the location, shape, and size of the area of the liquid surface containing the gas bubbles. The tracking system may include an infrared (IR) light source delivering IR light to the liquid surface and an IR video camera receiving a portion of the delivered IR light that is reflected by the gas bubbles. The reflected IR light defines a dynamic projection surface presented by the gas bubbles on the liquid surface by defining a boundary on the liquid surface about the gas bubbles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. LaDuke
  • Patent number: 8876294
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes an optical scanning device including a light source element configured to radiate a light beam, an optical deflector configured to deflect the light beam two-dimensionally, and a target scanning surface that is transparent and having a two-dimensional image formed thereon by the light beam deflected from the optical deflector, and a projection optical system including a convex mirror and configured to enlarge and project the two-dimensional image on a target projection surface. The target projection surface includes a reflection surface of a half mirror. The half mirror is positioned outside of the image forming apparatus and configured to transmit a part of a light incident on the half mirror and reflect another part of the light incident on the half mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichiroh Saisho, Hiroyuki Satoh
  • Patent number: 8880407
    Abstract: A projector includes a display part configured to display a first image by projection; a retrieval object specifying part configured to cause a user of the projector to specify an object of retrieval; a result display area specifying part configured to cause the user to specify an area for displaying the result of the retrieval in the displayed first image; and an image combining part configured to receive a second image of the result of the retrieval from a server that has performed the retrieval with respect to the object of retrieval specified by the user, and to display the second image by combining the second image with the area for displaying the result of the retrieval in the displayed first image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoru Ohno, Yoshiyuki Toda
  • Patent number: 8857994
    Abstract: A transparent display with a dynamic mask for generating three dimensional (3D) imagery. The display or apparatus includes a display element that is transmissive and that is selectively operable to display an image on the display element. The apparatus includes a dynamic mask element that is transmissive to light and that is positioned adjacent to the display element. The dynamic mask element is selectively operable to provide a mask with a shape and a size corresponding to the displayed image. The mask is positioned on the dynamic mask element so as to be adjacent to the first location, e.g., to be behind the displayed image, and, typically, the mask includes portions that are semi-transparent or opaque to block light from passing from the background through the displayed image and from passing through the display element at the location of the displayed image into the background to avoid double imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Quinn Smithwick
  • Patent number: 8845108
    Abstract: A high dynamic range scenographic image and video projection system and method involving the projection of an image of an object or collection of objects onto the object, 2D or 3D, in such a manner than projected image elements are positioned substantially on the actual image of the object. The projection enhances or otherwise alters the hue, contrast, brightness, saturation, luminance, and/or other visible features of the object. Visual and not-visual features may be projected onto the object or the area around the object to enhance or disguise the object as well as the surroundings of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. LaDuke, Richard Bradley Turner, Steven T. Kosakura, Bryan Lee Jolley
  • Patent number: 8845107
    Abstract: Objects and their placement within a particular scene may be characterized using structured light with no or minimal manual intervention or calibration to the scene. The structured light pattern may be rendered with visible light, yet imperceptible to users, by generating a set of opposing excursions in one or more image properties for durations which are shorter than the integration time of the human eye. A set of assumptions and ongoing testing of those assumptions against physical objects identified within the environment allows characterization of the scene and the objects therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Rawles LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Coley, Jonathan Betts-LaCroix, William Spencer Worley, III
  • Patent number: 8847879
    Abstract: An image projection system may be configured to project objects which respond to movements and gestures made using a handheld projector, as well as to methods for controlling the projected objects based on such user input. For example, users may interact with and control objects in a projection frame by moving and/or gesturing with the handheld projector. Further, objects or characters projected using the handheld projector may be configured to perceive and react to physical objects in the environment. Similarly, elements of the physical environment may be configured to respond to the presence of the projected objects or characters in a variety of ways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl D. Willis, Ivan Poupyrev
  • Publication number: 20140268064
    Abstract: A system for projecting an image, including layout information, on a surface in a building under construction has a projector mounted on a moveable support for supporting a worker at a work position in the building. The projector projects an image on a surface above the moveable support in response to an image signal defining the image to be projected. The image indicates the location of connectors, anchors, and holes to be affixed to, or cut through, the surface. A system determines the two dimensional position of the projector in the building, and a distance measuring system for determines the distance from the projector to said surface. A processor, responsive to a memory having stored building plan images, provides an image signal to the projector adjusted for the two dimensional location of the projector and for the distance from the projector to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: TRIMBLE NAVIGATION LIMITED
    Inventor: TRIMBLE NAVIGATION LIMITED
  • Patent number: 8814363
    Abstract: Techniques for presenting display frames projected using a handheld projector. Embodiments detect a marker embedded in a display surface. A first display frame is projected onto the display surface from the handheld projector, where the first display frame projects, on the display surface, one or more animated objects positioned relative to the detected marker embedded in the display surface. Embodiments generate one or more subsequent display frames projected from the handheld projector, where at least a first one of the animated objects in the one or more subsequent display frames is positioned relative to the detected marker embedded in the display surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl D. D. Willis, Takaaki Shiratori
  • Patent number: 8811678
    Abstract: Methods and systems for processing coverings such as leather hides and fabrics are provided. A system can include a worktable having a surface on which a covering is placeable. An imaging device can be positionable relative to the worktable. The imaging device can be configured to obtain an image of the covering on the surface of the worktable. A projector can be positionable relative to worktable. The projector can be configured to project an image onto the surface of the worktable and the covering on the surface of the worktable. A controller can be in communication with the imaging device and projector. The controller can be configured to correct images taken by the imaging device. The controller can also be configured to correct the images projected onto the surface of the worktable and the covering thereon. The controller can be configured to permit the showing of virtual markings on the covering placed on the surface of the worktable through an image projected thereon by the projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Automated Vision, LLC
    Inventors: Robert L. Campbell, Charles A. Leonard, Robert L. Miller
  • Patent number: 8782878
    Abstract: A fastener automation system for assembly of fasteners to a substrate, includes a projection system for projecting an image on a substrate of a predetermined location of a correct fastener to be installed in the substrate and data relating to the correct fastener and the substrate, and a computer operably associated with the projection system storing data regarding the correct fastener and the predetermined location on the substrate where the correct fastener is to be installed. An automated method of installing a fastener in a substrate at a predetermined location includes using a projector system to identify a predetermined location for installation of a correct fastener to the substrate, collecting data regarding the correct fastener installation at the predetermined location and storing the data in a computer, and installing the correct fastener in the substrate at the predetermined location based upon the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Nikon Metrology NV
    Inventors: Jarrad V. Morden, Robert S. Underhill, Charles S. Campbell, Christopher J. Cartile
  • Patent number: 8752967
    Abstract: A projection system and an image processing method thereof are provided. The system includes a projector module, a photography module and a processing module. The projector module projects a first image frame to an object surface. The photography module photographs the object surface to derive a second image frame including the first image frame and an indication point, wherein the indication point is formed by light projected on the object surface by an external device. The processing module analyzes the second image frame to derive coordinate of the indication point in the second image frame, derives coordinate of at least a feature point of the first image frame in the second image frame according to a linear-approximation method, and transforms the coordinates of the indication point in the second image frame to the coordinates in the first image frame by using two-dimensional coordinate transformation equations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Aptos Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Yung-Ching Hung, Meng-Chiou Liao
  • Patent number: 8743244
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing augmented or mixed reality environments based on other user or third party information, such as from a profile, is disclosed. Also, an apparatus and method for providing a transparent display device with adaptive transparency is disclosed. The transparent display device with adaptive transparency may be used to generate the augmented reality environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: HJ Laboratories, LLC
    Inventors: Harry Vartanian, Jaron Jurikson-Rhodes
  • Publication number: 20140146289
    Abstract: A system for on-product projection and display of electronic content. The system includes a projector for projecting electronic content, a mirror film stack having a reflective surface facing the projector, and a product having an exterior surface facing the reflective surface of the mirror film stack. A graphic is located on a surface of the mirror film stack opposite the reflective surface. The electronic content from the projector is projected onto the exterior surface of the product via the reflective surface of the mirror film stack. The graphic can be located on a display window and hide the mirror from a viewer without completely blocking a view of the projected electronic content. The product can include a removable projection screen for displaying the electronic content, and the projection screen can include a removable label on its non-viewer side to advertise or promote the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Rolf W. Biernath, Matthew C. Robbins, Ellyar Y. Barazesh, David A. Harper
  • Patent number: 8733951
    Abstract: A first image is provided to a projector, which is configured to project the first image on a projection screen. A captured first image is received from a camera configured to capture the projected first image and an occluding object between the projector and the projection screen. A key including a difference between the captured first image and the first image is generated. A second image is modified according to the key to generate a new second image. The new second image is provided to the projector, which is further configured to project the new second image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Warren Gruen, Daniel Richard Christen
  • Patent number: 8730321
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for insuring the proper alignment of a detected vein pattern and a projected vein pattern are disclosed. The apparatus enhances the visual appearance of veins so that an error that can lead to improper patient care or injury can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventors: Vincent Luciano, Fred Wood
  • Patent number: 8724224
    Abstract: A display device includes a dihedral corner reflector array optical element composed of a substrate and a plurality of dihedral corner reflectors arranged regularly on one main surface of the substrate, the dihedral corner reflectors including orthogonal mirror planes perpendicular to each other and being perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate; and an object existing by the one surface of the substrate, the optical element forming a real image of the object by the other main surface of the substrate. The optical element includes a plurality of protrudent bodies integrally formed of a transparent material of the substrate, each of the protrudent bodies including two sides of orthogonal mirror planes perpendicular to each other as the dihedral corner reflector perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate. The optical element is disposed so that the protrudent bodies face toward a space in which the object exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd., National Institute of Information and Communications Technology
    Inventors: Takashi Sugiyama, Satoshi Maekawa
  • Publication number: 20140114113
    Abstract: Treatment volume projection systems and methods for use in treating patients, including an image scanner to capture an image of a patient's treatment volume, a processor to process the image to generate a treatment volume image corresponding to at least a portion of the treatment volume, and an image projector to project the treatment volume image onto a projection surface. The treatment volume image can include an x-y scanning area of the treatment volume to assist delivery of treatment to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: ProNova Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph C. Matteo, Jonathan Huber
  • Patent number: 8704902
    Abstract: A method, computer program product, and system are provided for displaying an image device subject command on an imaging device. The imaging device receives an image device subject command from a user. The image device subject command instructs an action to be performed by a subject being recorded by the imaging device. The imaging device identifies a visual representation that correlates to the image device subject command. The imaging device displays the visual representation of the subject command on a display associated with the imaging device. The visual representation directs the subject being recorded to perform the action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Indran Naick, Clifford J. Spinac, Calvin L. Sze
  • Publication number: 20140104579
    Abstract: Embodiments provide grade annunciator systems that allow a lumber workpiece traveling in a workflow path to be to be labeled with a projected image that conveys information about the grade, a cut line, and/or the location of a defect in the workpiece. In some embodiments, the system includes a conveyor configured to convey lumber workpieces in a workflow path, and a projector or series of projectors configured to project an image or symbol onto a surface of the workpiece, wherein the image or symbol indicates grade, a cut line, and/or the location of a defect in the workpiece. Other embodiments are methods of labeling a lumber workpiece in a workflow path, the methods includes conveying the lumber workpiece along the workflow path, and projecting an image or symbol onto a surface of the workpiece as it is conveyed along the workflow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: U.S. Natural Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher W. Blomquist, Carl Flatman, Carl Wahlstrom, Mike O'Heron, Nick Sunder
  • Patent number: 8690339
    Abstract: A hologram projecting system includes a coherent light source for emitting a reference beam onto a real object; and an image sensor for receiving the reference beam and a scattered beam reflected from the real object, and recording a Fourier image of the real object. Also included is a modulator for receiving the Fourier image. The reference beam is passed through the modulator, and configured to interact with the Fourier image to form a virtual image of the real object. The image sensor includes an n×m pixel array, where n and m are numbers of rows and columns, respectively. The modulator includes an n×m pixel array corresponding to the n×m pixel array of the image sensor. The pixels in the n×m pixel array of the image sensor control transmissivity of light in corresponding pixels of the n×m pixel array of the modulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Aptina Imaging Corporation
    Inventors: Victor Lenchenkov, Dongqing Cao
  • Patent number: 8682030
    Abstract: Embodiments are disclosed herein that relate to the front-projection of an interactive display. One disclosed embodiment provides an interactive display system comprising a projector and a display screen configured to display an image projected by the projector, the display screen comprising a retroreflective layer and a diffuser layer covering the retroreflective layer, the diffuser layer being configured to diffusely reflect only a portion of light incident on the diffuser layer from the projector such that another portion of light passes through the diffuser layer and is reflected by the retroreflective layer back through the diffuser layer. The interactive display system also comprises a camera configured to capture images of the display screen via light reflected by the retroreflective layer to identify via the images a user gesture performed between the projector and the display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy Large
  • Patent number: 8676498
    Abstract: A navigation device is provided herein comprising an inertial measurement unit (IMU), a camera, and a processor. The IMU provides an inertial measurement to the processor and the camera provides at least one image frame to the processor. The processor is configured to determine navigation data based on the inertial measurement and the at least one image frame, wherein at least one feature is extracted from the at least one image frame based on the navigation data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Yunqian Ma, Wesley J. Hawkinson
  • Patent number: 8666447
    Abstract: An apparatus may include a device and an image projection system configured to form an image on a surface viewable by a user. The image projection circuit may be configured to receive signals from the device, generate a pattern representative of data, process the pattern into a mirror image of the image, and project the mirror image from the device. The image projection system may include an electro optic system for generating the pattern, and an optics system for projecting the mirror image onto the surface. A method for projecting data may include providing the device with the image, and providing the image to the surface with the image projection system. The method may also include manipulating the device and/or a body part to locate and focus the image, sensing an orientation of the device, and orienting the image based, at least in part, on the sensing step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Lagoon Point Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: James Cathey
  • Patent number: 8662671
    Abstract: The present invention features an optical apparatus for the transmission of a virtual image to facilitate an individual's copy or reproduction thereof onto a working surface. The optical apparatus provides an image transfer that is more realistic than apparatuses of the prior art because of the illusion that the image is in actual contact with the working surface, when in reality the image impinges only a transparent medium. In addition, the invention provides a more effective image transfer than conventional devices by not including an opaque transfer of the artist's hand and/or art utensil, but rather by rendering the illusion that the artist's hand and/or art utensil is transparent. The optical apparatus consists of a supporting frame upon which is mounted a light source, an upper transparent support plate, a lower plate consisting of at least two layers, and a working surface on which is disposed canvas or paper for receiving the artist's final, copied image or work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony A. Dandrea, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8659626
    Abstract: A mobile terminal may include a projection device to project, from a first position of the mobile terminal, visual content onto a projection surface to form a projected image; a sensor to sense movement information indicative of displacement of the mobile terminal with respect to the first position; and a controller to activate, based on the displacement, at least one of a zoom mode or a pan mode, wherein the projection device is further configured to perform, in the at least one of the zoom mode or the pan mode, at least one of zooming or panning with respect to the projected image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Mobile Communications AB
    Inventor: Henrik Bengtsson
  • Patent number: 8651666
    Abstract: An interactive image projecting device that projects an image onto a display surface and controls the projected image based upon movement of the image projecting device or the detection of another image. The image projecting device includes a projector that generates an image from a control unit. The device includes a position indicating emitter that generates a position indicator and an image sensor that is operable to detect the position indicator from either the device including the image sensor or a position indicator from another device. Based upon the sensed position indicator from another device, the control unit operates to modify the image projected from the device such that the image from a first device can interact with an image from a second device. The first and second devices each have a wireless transceiver such that the devices can communicate with each other during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Huebner
  • Patent number: 8646918
    Abstract: A projection system having a set of projectors that cast images: (i) onto the concave surface of a hemispherical dome, as is usual in planetariums and (ii) onto the surface of a centrally located sphere. The images thus cast may be coordinated by a controlling computer program, so that changes in the content or orientation of the images on the sphere result in corresponding changes in the images on the dome and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Old Dominion University Research Foundation
    Inventor: Declan G. De Paor
  • Patent number: 8641195
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes: a projector configured to be capable of projecting light to thereby display an image on a rendering region formed on a display surface set around a guiding point to which a person should be guided and changing a position of the rendering region; a detecting unit that detects whether a person is present in a detection region set near the display surface and detects, when a person is present in the detection region, a moving state of the person; and a control unit that controls, on the basis of a detection result of the detecting unit, driving of the projector to guide the person present in the detection region to the guiding point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Shuichi Wakabayashi, Norio Nakamura, Yasushi Mizoguchi
  • Patent number: 8641196
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes: a light emitting portion emitting light; an optical scanning portion scanning a display surface with the light emitted from the light emitting portion; and a changing portion rotating an image formed on the display surface through the scanning with the light by using a position near the center as a rotation axis to change an orientation of the image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Shuichi Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 8632192
    Abstract: An image projection kit and an imagery content distribution system and method. In one aspect, the invention is a method of distributing projection clip files and/or displaying imagery associated with projection clip files on an architecture comprising: a) storing a plurality of projection clip files on a server that is accessible via a wide area network; b) authenticating a user's identity prior to allowing downloading of projection clip files stored on the server; c) identifying the projection clip files downloaded by the authenticated user; and d) charging the user a fee for the projection clip files downloaded by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Ricardo Rivera
  • Patent number: 8573786
    Abstract: A projector for masking out one or more objects between the projector and a screen. The projector includes an image capture sensor configured to produce a captured screen image. The projector further includes a processing device configured to receive a video-in signal, create a masking image that corresponds to at least a portion of the captured screen image, and produce a video-out signal, wherein the video-out signal comprises a combination of the video-in signal and the masking image. A panel controller in the projector receives the video-out signal and causes at least one or more pixels of at least one panel to be closed based upon the masking image such that any objects positioned between the projector and the screen are masked from any light projected by the projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Guo-Yau Lin, Issac Feldstein Case, James Michael Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20130278900
    Abstract: A display device (30) comprises a reflective display (38) arranged to render a first image viewable through a viewing surface and a projection means (31-37) arranged to render a second image viewable in reflection on the viewing surface, the reflective display (38) and the projection means (31-37) being mounted on a common frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Dirk Hertel, Richard J. Paolini, JR., Benjamin Harris Paletsky, Stephen J. Telfer, Sunil Krishna Sainis, Giovanni Mancini, Colleen Shea, David Paul Biss, Stephen Dennis Fantone
  • Patent number: 8562147
    Abstract: A projector including a lens, an IR emission circuit, an IR reception circuit and a central processing circuit is provided. The projector is controlled by a first infrared ray (IR) signal provided by a remote controller. The IR emission circuit emits a second IR signal to detect whether an obstacle is positioned on an optical path of the projection light. When an obstacle is positioned on the optical path, the second IR signal is reflected to the IR reception circuit via the obstacle. The IR reception circuit provides a first and a second output signal in response to the first and the second IR signal respectively. The central processing circuit determines that an obstacle is positioned on the optical path and accordingly alters an operational mode of the projector in response to the second output signal and controls the operation of the projector in response to the first output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Qisda Corporation
    Inventors: Wei-Chun Chang, Hsien-Chun Tsou, Wei-Chun Huang, Hung-Yen Huang
  • Patent number: 8549418
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems to receive, via at least one sensor device, data related to an area around the at least one sensor device. A target area around the sensor device to project an interactive display space via a projector is determined based, at least in part, on the data received from the at least one sensor device. The target area will include a projected interactive display space wherein interactions and objects within the projected interactive display space are to be processed via a computing device operatively coupled to the at least one sensor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony G. Lamarca, Matthal Philipose, Beverly L. Harrison
  • Patent number: 8540371
    Abstract: A display device includes: a wall defining a viewer-side space; an observed object arranged in an object-side space partitioned off the viewer-side space by a portion of the wall; an imaging optical system of real specular image including a semitransparent substrate with a plane of symmetry for defining the viewer-side space and the object-side space as the portion of the wall to image a real image of the observed object in the viewer-side space with light passing through the substrate; a screen surface having a function of diffuse reflection and provided with the substrate so as to face the viewer-side space; and a projector optical system projecting an image on the screen surface in the viewer-side space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Sugiyama
  • Patent number: 8537227
    Abstract: A method, computer program product, and system are provided for displaying an image device subject command on an imaging device. The imaging device receives an image device subject command from a user. The image device subject command instructs an action to be performed by a subject being recorded by the imaging device. The imaging device identifies a visual representation that correlates to the image device subject command. The imaging device displays the visual representation of the subject command on a display associated with the imaging device. The visual representation directs the subject being recorded to perform the action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Indran Naick, Clifford J. Spinac, Calvin L. Sze
  • Patent number: 8525890
    Abstract: Provided is a photographing apparatus that includes a photographing section that photographs a subject, and a controller that controls a photographing range of the photographing section based on a range specification image that is projected onto the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shoji Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 8511828
    Abstract: A multimedia presentation system a projector to project images toward an audience. A plurality of nozzles are partially submerged in a body of water at locations between the projector and the audience. The plurality of nozzles are located at different distances from the projector. Each of the plurality of nozzles is arranged to produce a fan like water mist onto which the projector projects images. A controller is coupled to the projector and the plurality of nozzles. The controller causes the projector to project images and at least one of the plurality of nozzles to produce a water mist in a synchronized sequence such that the images appear at different distances from the projector at different times. The controller may further control the orientation of each nozzle to vary the distance by inclining the plane of the water mist relative to the surface of the body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Wet Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Fuller, James Doyle
  • Patent number: 8514269
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for de-aliasing depth images. The depth image may have been generated based on phase differences between a transmitted and received modulated light beam. A method may include accessing a depth image that has a depth value for a plurality of locations in the depth image. Each location has one or more neighbor locations. Potential depth values are determined for each of the plurality of locations based on the depth value in the depth image for the location and potential aliasing in the depth image. A cost function is determined based on differences between the potential depth values of each location and its neighboring locations. Determining the cost function includes assigning a higher cost for greater differences in potential depth values between neighboring locations. The cost function is substantially minimized to select one of the potential depth values for each of the locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Avishai Adler, Sagi Katz, Guy Gilboa, John Tardif