Projection Device Patents (Class 348/744)
  • Publication number: 20120281152
    Abstract: A projection system for projecting light such as images or content upon a liquid surface such as a lake or pool surface. The system includes an agitation assembly selectively operable to agitate a portion of the upper surface of liquid to form a projection screen. The system includes a projector assembly projecting or focusing light onto the projection screen on the upper surface of the liquid. The liquid is translucent to light, but the projection screen on the upper surface reflects a portion of the projected light due to the agitation. The agitation assembly may include an aeration system with a distribution manifold and is positioned below the liquid surface and has outlets discharging gas into the liquid such that air bubbles for the screen. The manifold outlets may be provided at two or more depths, whereby two or more portions of the projection screen are generated at differing times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Edward A. Nemeth, David W. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20120274865
    Abstract: With a conventional image-display system, a presenter sometimes has difficulty in providing every viewer with an easy-to-see picture. When projecting an image transmitted from a computer operated by the presenter and enabling the viewer to watch the image projected by the projector, the projector receives image data transmitted through two-way communication from the computer operated by the presenter, projects an image represented by the received image data and transmits the received image data to a client computer operated by the viewer through the two-way communication, and the client computer receives the image data transmitted through the two-way communication and displays the image represented by the received image data on its display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Minoru Sato, Shinji Kubota, Toru Karasawa
  • Patent number: 8300978
    Abstract: A projector adapted to correct a keystone distortion of an image, includes a frame memory adapted to store a pre-correction image, a block data storage memory adapted to store the pre-correction image by block data that composed of M pixels in a first direction and N pixels in a second direction (M, N?2), a correction section adapted to correct the pre-correction image based on the block data stored in the block data storage memory, and a control section adapted to perform control of obtaining the pre-correction image from the frame memory by the block data, and storing the obtained pre-correction image in the block data storage memory, and the control section obtains contiguous n×N (n?2) lines of the image from the frame memory and stores the obtained image in the block data storage memory at the beginning of the correction process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Akihiko Tamura
  • Patent number: 8292439
    Abstract: An image projection system is disclosed. The system comprises a projector, a user input device and a computing device. The micro-mirror based projector projects an image including a cursor on a display plane. The present invention discloses various embodiments for the system and method of adjusting the brightness of the cursor to improve effects of a presentation. According to one embodiment, the brightness of the cursor is adjusted by modifying the on/off time ratio of the mirrors by which the cursor is formed. According to another embodiment, the projector comprises a first and a second micro-mirror array. The second array is dedicated for projecting the cursor image. The brightness of the cursor may be adjusted by changing the number of micro-mirrors by which the cursor is formed from the second array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Yang Pan
  • Patent number: 8294833
    Abstract: An image projection method comprises the steps of a) obtaining an image pixel array for the image to be projected; b) obtaining a plurality of pixel allocation arrays for the image pixel array, whereby each pixel allocation array comprises occupied elements and vacant elements; c) generating a trigger pulse train for a laser light source according to a pixel allocation array, whereby a trigger pulse is generated for each occupied element; d) generating a modulation signal for the laser light source; e) switching the laser light source with the trigger pulse train and modulating the laser light source with the modulation signal to generate a laser light pulse sequence for a sub-frame image; f) and scanning the laser light pulse sequence to traverse the display; thereby, the steps c) to f) are carried out for each pixel allocation array so that the image appears on the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Carsten Deppe
  • Patent number: 8289456
    Abstract: Disclosed is an image correction method of correcting an image including a number of horizontal image scan lines each corresponding to a number of pieces of image data. The method includes the following steps: segmenting each of the horizontal image scan lines into a plurality of segments according to a plurality of nodes, each of the segments having an original segment length; looking up a table to generate at least one correction parameter according to a selection signal; generating a gain value according to a control signal; correcting the original segment length to generate an adjusted segment length according to the gain value and the correction parameter; and altering positions of the plurality of nodes to correct the image according to the adjusted segment length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Mstar Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Ren-Kuan Liang, Meng-Che Tsai, Yu-Chieh Hung
  • Patent number: 8289454
    Abstract: A signal conversion device supplies a video signal to each video projection device of plural video projection devices that display a video image by superimposing the projection image. The device includes a characteristic information transmitting unit that transmits, to at least one video projection device of the plural video projection devices, characteristic information representing a light modulation characteristic of a light modulation element provided in the at least one video projection device, and a signal conversion processing unit that performs signal conversion processing corresponding to each of the video projection devices to an input video signal in accordance with the characteristic information transmitted from the characteristic information transmitting unit, and supplies the video signal after the signal conversion processing to each of the video projection devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hasegawa, Toshiki Fujimori
  • Publication number: 20120257115
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided in which a digital image is transmitted to a presentation projector resource over a wireless transmission medium using a reduced amount of bandwidth by transmitting a subset of the digital image data. The subset of image data may be a delta subset that represents those areas of the image that have changed since the previous transmission. The subset image data may also be a scalable vector graphics representation of the subset of the digital image. A projector discovery logic selects a suitable projector resource based on the order or signal strength of the discovery replies. A wireless image transmission session is established with the selected projector resource during which the projector is unavailable to other devices. The subset image data may be compressed and transmission coordinated with the projector resource so that the data is sent only when it is ready to be received.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: David Elliott Slobodin, Rob Hoeye, Jorell A. Olson, Paul Long, Marques Ronald Girardelli, Joshua Duffy
  • Patent number: 8279358
    Abstract: A complex image display device comprises a light source, an illumination optical module, a micro display module, at least one optical projection module, at least one image-light-path switch module, an image-light-path control unit, and at least one image display screen, wherein the light source provides a light beam, the illumination optical module receives and shapes the light beam, continuously the light beam is projected by the illumination optical module. The micro display module provides an image-to-be-displayed and the light beam is then modulated by the image to become at least an image-modulated light beam for displaying. Then, the optical projection module receives and magnifies the image-modulated light beam. Continuously, the image-light-path switch module receives the magnified image-modulated light beam and switches the light path of the light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: National Tsing Hua University
    Inventors: Cheng-Huan Chen, Po-Hung Yao, Ya-Yu Nieh
  • Publication number: 20120242908
    Abstract: A projector includes: a first source input section; a second source input section; and a mode setting section that sets a projection mode, wherein when a first projection mode is set by the mode setting section, image display or sound output is performed based on an input signal that is input via any one of the first source input section and the second source input section, and when a second projection mode is set by the mode setting section, image display or sound output is performed based on an input signal that is input via the second source input section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Shinichi Tsukagoshi
  • Patent number: 8274613
    Abstract: Methods having corresponding apparatus and computer-readable media comprise: capturing an image of a shape projected upon a display surface; and determining a first rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape, comprising generating a rectangular bounding box containing the shape, dividing the rectangular bounding box vertically into first and second sections, determining a second rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the first section of the bounding box, determining a third rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the second section of the bounding box, dividing the rectangular bounding box horizontally into third and fourth sections, determining a fourth rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in a third section of the bounding box, and determining a fifth rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the fourth section of the bounding box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Steve Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120236212
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an optical multiplexing apparatus and a projector that keep an optical system small, and easily adjust a number of light source units. The optical multiplexing apparatus has: a light source section that uses light source units to emit collimated beams; a first lens portion that converges the collimated beams which enter at different incident angles from each other to define converging positions; and a second lens portion that has focal points that correspond to the converging positions, respectively, wherein the first and second lens portions form an optical reduction system, and an optical axis of the second lens portion, which is directed to the corresponding focal point to one of the converging positions, extends along anther optical axis of the second lens position, which is directed to the corresponding focal point to another of the converging positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Tatsuo Itoh, Tetsuro Mizushima
  • Patent number: 8267526
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods that are related to projection. For example, in at least some embodiments, methods in accordance with the present disclosure include receiving information associated with one or more projection parameters; processing the information associated with the one or more projection parameters to generate one or more projection associated instructions; transmitting the one or more projection associated instructions; and wherein at least one of the receiving information, the processing the information, or the transmitting is performed at least partially using one or more processing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Edward K. Y. Jung, Eric C. Leuthardt, Royce A. Levien, Richard T. Lord, Robert W. Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8269902
    Abstract: System and methods for outputting coordinated audio and video presentations are provided. The system includes a plurality of speakers and a display device capable of providing a plurality of projection images. Sound generated by the plurality of speakers is coordinated with the plurality of projection images. The coordination process may be automatically performed according to position change of the plurality of projection images. Sound generated by the plurality of speakers may be further modulated according to position of a user or motion of a video object being displayed in one or more of the plurality of projected images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Transpacific Image, LLC
    Inventor: William J. Plut
  • Patent number: 8267524
    Abstract: A projection system includes a first projector and a second projector configured to project light on a light receiving surface according to an image signal. The first projector and the second projector direct light to be supplied to the light receiving surface in a direction along the light receiving surface. A part of an image projected by the first projector overlaps with a part of an image projected by the second projector on the light receiving surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Eiji Morikuni
  • Publication number: 20120224109
    Abstract: A screen includes a light diffusion layer in which microcapsules, each having therein a light diffusion liquid that scatters light for displaying a video image, are planarly arranged. The light diffusion layer is fixed to a supporting sheet by a binder material. On a surface of the supporting sheet, a Fresnel lens is formed. A light diffusion plate is made up of the light diffusion layer and the supporting sheet. The screen is made up of the light diffusion plate and a light diffusion plate. Scattering distribution of a scattered wave of light that passes through the light diffusion layer temporally changes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Satoru Okagaki, Eiji Yokoyama, Tomohiro Sasagawa, Jun Kondo, Muneharu Kuwata, Kuniko Kojima, Yuzo Nakano
  • Patent number: 8259094
    Abstract: A projection advertising display system which can withstand the environmental conditions of the projection site, allows for remote operation and monitoring and provides for long-term, legitimate projected advertising in or on third-party structures. The digital projection advertising display system comprises a projection surface, such as the exterior side or interior wall of a building, which is covered by a long-term agreement allowing the projection of advertising images on said projection surface, and a projection unit comprising a projector, an environmental control system, a monitoring camera, and a computer. Each of the components of the projection unit is operatively coupled to a computer which controls and monitors the function of each of the components. The computer is networked to a central computer remote from said projection unit and can remotely control and monitor the functions of the projection unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Wallspace Media, LLC
    Inventors: Jude P. Galligan, Matthew J. Wood
  • Patent number: 8259237
    Abstract: A detection surface of an optical detector is divided into regions C, E, F, G, and H. The optical detector outputs detection signals corresponding to the amounts of light incident on the respective regions. A position detection controller calculates an image projection position based on timing at which a laser beam is incident on region C. A laser control circuit adjusts the intensity of the laser beam emitted by a laser based on laser beam intensities detected in regions E to H arranged around region C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ken Nishioka, Atsuya Hirano, Kenji Nagashima, Manabu Murayama
  • Publication number: 20120212683
    Abstract: The invention involves a sort of curved film projection system, including a rendering surface, a projection screen, a real scene rendering model of image system, a rendering model of projection system that renders the projection the image rendered by the rendering model of image system on the rendering surface, and projecting devices that projects the image finally rendered by the rendering model of projection system onto the projection screen through optical lens. The viewing direction and angle from observer's eyes to the rendering surface is consistent with that to the projection screen: The image system rendering model can be reversible on optical path with the projection system rendering model. The curved film projection system not only reduces the rendering cost, but also produces lifelike experience for audience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Ming Li, Zhigang Rong, Liang Ding, Tao Cui, Caixia Huo
  • Patent number: 8248542
    Abstract: A table type large-size imaging apparatus in which an imaging screen and a reflector are installed in front and rear end positions of a table type case with an inclination angle that extends in directions downwardly away from the upper surface. The reflector and imaging screen are arranged to then reflect an image in a direction parallel to an upper surface of the table type case to allow a viewer to watch an image formed on the screen through a transparent window provided at a top of the table type case. The viewer's watching distance and the image projection distance are overlapped within the table type case, to achieve a maximum screen size with a minimum table size. With this configuration, a viewer who is located close to the imaging apparatus in the form of a table is able to appreciate the vivid large-size image with a downward viewing angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Hae-Yong Choi
  • Patent number: 8248460
    Abstract: The present invention provides a three dimensional image projection systems comprised of the projection of two different portions of the image in light beams of differing spectral properties by automated luminairs which can be remotely positioned and can reverse roles during repositioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Robe Lighting s.r.o.
    Inventor: Martin Farnik
  • Patent number: 8248541
    Abstract: A scanning projector includes a mirror that scans in two dimensions. The scanning mirror oscillates at a resonant frequency on a fast-scan axis, and is phase locked to an incoming frame rate on a slow-scan axis. An interpolation component interpolates pixel intensity data from adjacent pixels based on the position of the mirror when a pixel clock arrives. Incoming video data is stored in a buffer. Less than a complete frame of video data may be stored in the buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Microvision, Inc.
    Inventors: Margaret K. Brown, Robert James Jackson, Mark Champion
  • Patent number: 8248265
    Abstract: Display buttons and vehicle consoles include etched lenses operable to diffract light provided by a light source within a vehicle console such that the light emitted from the display button diverges from the first pathway within the button housing into a secondary pathway outside of the display button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Earnee Yasha Jones
  • Patent number: 8242973
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus receives first and second input image signals and generates first and second projection image signals for projecting images from first and second projectors so as to be superimposed on a screen. A storage unit stores, for each projection position on the screen, intensity ratios between projected light from the first and second projectors when viewing from first and second viewing position. An intensity correcting unit adds the first and second input image signals in proportions set for generating the first projection image signal and in proportions set for generating the second projection image signal, according to the stored intensity ratios. The first projection image signal is supplied to the first projector and the second projection image signal is supplied to the second projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kenji Tanaka, Tetsujiro Kondo, Tetsushi Kokubo, Hitoshi Mukai, Hirofumi Hibi, Kazumasa Tanaka, Hiroyuki Morisaki
  • Patent number: 8241038
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a simulator comprising at least one projector arranged to project an image, and a non-spherical, generally continuous, dome-like projection surface on which the image is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Edward W. Quinn, Randall W. Wallace, Michael R. Vogel, Jason L. Seeliger
  • Patent number: 8243211
    Abstract: A projection system with one or more light sources reduced power consumption and optional scanning capability is disclosed. A controller processes image data to generate light source control signals and pixel screen control signals which are coordinated to generate an image. Reductions in power consumption occur by matching the light output from the light source to the brightest pixel(s) in the pixel screen for a particular frame. By setting the light output level to an intensity or duration matched to only the maximum level corresponding to a image frame, power consumption is reduced as compared to an embodiment which sets the light source output to its maximum level or maximum duration. The pixel screen, which may be an LCD screen, sets pixel areas corresponding to the brightest pixels as transparent and other, less bring pixels on the pixel screen are set to appropriate levels of reduced transparency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mindspeed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Cristiano Bazzani, Daniel Draper
  • Patent number: 8243210
    Abstract: An ambient light adaptive color correction system and method are provided in the present invention. Firstly, a color information sensor measures color information of at least black and white reference images on a projector plane with influence of ambient light. Then a color correction information calculator calculates color correction information for color appearance matching and gamut mapping based on the measured color information and a projector profile. And after pre-calculation, an image data correction unit processes an input image according to the color correction information to produce a corrected-color image to be outputted to the projector. Accordingly, the output image displayed on the projection plane with influence of ambient light will have a close color appearance to that in the dark room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Han Bing, Du-sik Park
  • Patent number: 8237872
    Abstract: A projection type display apparatus is capable of significantly reducing operational noise of a color wheel. The projection type display apparatus includes a color wheel, a color wheel assembly in which the color wheel is installed, and a noise damping section which changes air flow caused by a rotation of the color wheel so as to reduce the noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung Ho Hwang, Jee Hoon Sung, Pil Yong Oh, Jun Seok Park
  • Publication number: 20120194748
    Abstract: A video display device includes a light guide unit for guiding outgoing light from a light source unit to a pixel area of a display device. The light guide unit includes a rod integrator having an input opening through which the outgoing light from the light source unit enters and an output opening provided on a side opposite to the input opening, and a light shielding plate provided between the input opening of the rod integrator and the light source unit. The light shielding plate has a plurality of types of openings for passing the outgoing light from the light source unit to the rod integrator. The light shielding plate is arranged in a state where one of the plurality of types of openings, which has a shape similar to that of the input opening of the rod integrator which is actually mounted, is aligned with the input opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Yoshinori KAKUTA
  • Patent number: 8228443
    Abstract: A video projection device includes: a video display element, a projection lens, a converter lens, and a video processing part. The video display element displays a video by an electrical video signal. The projection lens projects on a screen the video displayed on the video display element. The converter lens is attachably and detachably provided for the projection lens. The video processing part outputs different video signals to the video display element in accordance with whether or not the converter lens is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Opto, Inc.
    Inventor: Yasumasa Sawai
  • Patent number: 8228444
    Abstract: A projector includes: a storage portion that stores set identification name data describing the set identification name of an adjustment value set including an adjustment value for each set type for projecting images, predetermined character string data describing plural kinds of predetermined character strings usable as the set identification name and menu image data; a projecting portion that projects an identification name setting image showing the plural kinds of predetermined character strings as selectable on the basis of the predetermined character string data and the menu image data; an input portion that inputs identification name setting information describing the character string selected on the identification name setting image; and an update portion that updates the set identification name data on the basis of the identification name setting information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Shunji Maruyama
  • Patent number: 8228445
    Abstract: A rear projection imaging system with an image warping distortion correction system using a camera and processing unit to generate a warping map that corrects for image distortion. The warping map is generated in an iterative process by displaying a known pattern on a viewing screen and, through the use of a camera, having a microprocessor determine the location and shape of the pattern on the screen. The microprocessor then compares the displayed image to the original reference image, calculates the distortion effects present in the projection optics, and generates a warping map.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Fakespace Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Ian E. McDowall, Mark T. Bolas
  • Publication number: 20120182484
    Abstract: An illumination device comprises a light source (3a) that includes a solid-state light source whose peak wavelength is set in the red wavelength band, a light source (3b) that includes a solid-state light source whose peak wavelength is set in the green wavelength band, a light source (3c) that includes a solid-state light source whose peak wavelength is set in the blue wavelength band, and a color synthesis optical element (1) that combines P-polarized colored light incident from one light source (3b) and S-polarized colored light incident from the other two light sources (3a and 3c). One light source (3c) includes at least one solid-state light source whose peak wavelength is set in the wavelength band of the color corresponding to one of the other light sources (3b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masao Imai, Goroh Saitoh, Fujio Okumura
  • Patent number: 8220933
    Abstract: A projection system for projecting an output image. The projection system comprises 1) a plurality of laser diodes, each laser diode generating a light beam; 2) combiner optics for combining light beams from the laser diodes to generate an output light beam; and a MEMS mirror module for receiving the output light beam and generating a scanning light beam operable to form the output image on a projection surface. A controller operates the projection system in a first mode in which the projection system projects an output image and operates the projection system in a second mode in which the projection system transmits data to an external device using a light beam from one of the plurality of laser diodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: National Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Michel Cantelobre
  • Patent number: 8223161
    Abstract: An image generation apparatus provides correction for color offsets. Color offsets may be caused by misalignments in laser diodes or optics assemblies in a laser projector. The offsets may be measured during or after manufacture of the laser projector. An image buffer is responsive to the offset data to translate each color plane separately. The image buffer may include separately addressable portions for each color. Further, variable delay elements on the output of the image buffer may provide color offset correction. Interpolation provides further offset correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Microvision, Inc.
    Inventors: Margaret K. Brown, Mark O. Freeman, Mark Champion, Shawn M. Swilley, Maciej A. Jakuc
  • Patent number: 8223208
    Abstract: A device and technique are presented to calibrate an imaging device for generating three-dimensional surface models of moving objects and calculating three-dimensional coordinates of detected features relative to a coordinate system embedded in the device. The internal projector and camera parameters, i.e., zoom, focus, aperture, optical center, logical pixel size, aspect ratio, are determined for all projectors and cameras and all possible focal planes of the device in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Motion Analysis Corporation
    Inventor: Eugene J. Alexander
  • Publication number: 20120176549
    Abstract: The radiance of a laser is a function of drive current. The radiance is also a function of other factors, such as age and temperature. A laser projection device adjusts laser drive parameters using a gradient descent operation. The device parameters may be adjusted iteratively and periodically. The period may be shorter or longer than a scan line in a video image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: MICROVISION, INC.
    Inventors: Margaret K. Brown, Joel D. Hopkins, Jenchao J. Lin, Lifford McLauchlan
  • Patent number: 8218014
    Abstract: Briefly, in accordance with one or more embodiments, a scanner for a scanned beam display may comprise a scanning platform having a mirror disposed thereon to reflect a beam of light impinging on the mirror, a drive coil disposed on the scanning platform to scan the reflected beam of light in response to a drive current applied to the drive coil. The drive coil has coil winding segments having a narrower width in one or more regions of the drive coil, and has coil winding segments having a greater width in one or more other regions of the drive coil to provide a the drive coil with a reduced electrical resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Microvision, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason B. Tauscher, Dean R. Brown, Matthew Ellis, Wyatt O. Davis, Mark P. Helsel
  • Patent number: 8212945
    Abstract: A calibration image including dots and scale points is projected at first and second display surfaces. A location of a scale point may be modified. A location for a registration point is determined and the registration point is added to the calibration image. The projected calibration image is captured. A location of the captured registration point and locations captured scale points are identified. Captured dots that are projected onto the first display surface and their locations are identified. Each of the captured dots identified as being projected onto the first display surface are mapped to a corresponding dot of the calibration image. Dots of the calibration image that are not projected onto the first display surface are identified, locations of each of the identified dots are determined, and a synthetic dot is added to the captured image for each identified dot. The captured image may be provided as input to a process for determining one or more inverse offsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Doug McFadyen, George Lyons, Tatiana Pavlovna Kadantseva
  • Publication number: 20120162544
    Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for combining non-visible data and visible data for a projector enabled to project visible images and non-visible images are provided. Visible bits representative of the visible images to be projected by the projector in a visible light spectrum are received; non-visible bits representative of the non-visible images to be projected by the projector in a non-visible light spectrum are received; a portion of the visible bits are replaced with at least a portion of the non-visible bits in video data such that the visible images and the non-visible images can be co-projected by the projector upon processing the video data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart NICHOLSON, Thomas Patrick Pawelko, Lawrence Stewart Paul
  • Publication number: 20120154694
    Abstract: A projector is provided with a housing including an air inlet and an air filter that covers the air inlet. The air filter is arranged on the housing. A clogging detection sensor detects a clogging degree of the air filter. A projection lens, which serves as a presentation unit displays the clogging degree of the air filter. A control unit displays the clogging degree with the projection lens in three or more stages based on the detection result of the clogging degree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Nishihata, Akira Miyanaga, Shinya Noda, Kei Yasukawa
  • Publication number: 20120154681
    Abstract: A video processing unit has a diaphragm control unit which uses a diaphragm to limit the light quantity emitted in accordance with information indicating the brightness of the supplied video signal. Here, the diaphragm control unit controls the open degree of the diaphragm in accordance with a difference between the open degree of the diaphragm detected by a diaphragm drive unit which detects the open degree of the diaphragm and a target open degree of the diaphragm based on the information indicating the brightness of the supplied video signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Takeshi Morimoto
  • Patent number: 8199153
    Abstract: An image display system includes an information processing apparatus and an image display apparatus. The information processing apparatus includes: a processing unit that acquires image information and executes image processing for the image information; a processed image information acquisition command unit that gives an acquisition command to an image display apparatus; and a transmitting unit that transmits the processed image information and the acquisition command to the image display apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Toshiki Fujimori
  • Patent number: 8194193
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a uniform resolution display screen. In one embodiment, the uniform resolution display screen comprises a surface of the uniform resolution display screen having a curvature configured to display images with a uniform resolution across the display screen. The curvature is based on a projection distance from a projector to the uniform resolution display screen and a viewing distance from an eyepoint of an observer to the uniform resolution display screen. The geometry of the display screen is configured to display images associated with a high definition imaging format.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Harold R. Streid, Carl J. Vorst, Scott Phillip Rothman
  • Publication number: 20120133846
    Abstract: An illumination device includes a light source, which emits light polarized in a single direction, and a beam splitting unit, which splits the polarized light into beams of polarized light at a given ratio. A switching unit switches light converters to convert the polarized light, which is split into a plurality of beams, into beams of colored light. The beams of colored light are combined to change the balance of color purity and light amount of the polarized light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Koji ISHII
  • Patent number: 8189123
    Abstract: A projection apparatus is specified, comprising a light modulator having a light receiving region with a cross-sectional area to be illuminated of the size AM and a maximum acceptance angle ? for incident light, and at least one light source by means of which, during its operation, a light cone is produced for illuminating said cross-sectional area of said light receiving region and which comprises a number N of LED chips having a maximum radiation angle ?. At least one of the LED chips has a radiation decoupling area of the size AD. The relation 0.7·(AM·sin2(?))/(AD·sin2(?)·n2)?N?1.3·(AM·sin2(?))/(AD·sin2(?)·n2) applies, where n is equal to 1 or to the refractive index of a coupling medium with which the LED chips are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Kuhn, Moritz Engl, Patrick Kromotis, Stefan Grötsch, Josef Hüttner, Mario Wanninger, Georg Bogner
  • Publication number: 20120127281
    Abstract: An immersive video system includes a display, a sensor that provides information about a user's location relative to the display, a projector capable of projecting images onto the user, and a processor in communication with the display, the sensor, and the projector. The processor manipulates the images projected onto the user based on user location data from the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Matthew Ward, Jonathan Brill, Brian Chasalow
  • Patent number: 8183977
    Abstract: A control system includes: an input unit through which a signal for a gesture and a background of the gesture is input; a gesture recognition unit which recognizes the gesture on the basis of the input signal; an attribute recognition unit which recognizes an attribute of a background target of the recognized gesture on the basis of the input signal; and a command transmitting unit which generates a control command on the basis of a combination of the recognized gesture and the background target attribute and transmits the control command to a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Shigeyuki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 8184136
    Abstract: An image display device is provided with multiple light sources 101, 102 and 103, and a display element 100. Control is performed on a period in which the display element 100 displays each color and on emission of the light sources 101, 102 and 103 respectively emitting light beams of different colors. A controller 107 is provided to switch a display method to a method more suitable for the type and others of a display image. Thus, the image display device, which performs a color sequential display, can select the display method suitable for the display image when the multiple light sources emitting light of different colors are used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kei Tokui
  • Publication number: 20120113330
    Abstract: A auto-focusing method for projection of a computing device with imaging function is illustrated. The computing device exemplarily includes a projection unit, an image receiving unit, and a processing unit. The method firstly controls the projection unit to project images on plural positions along an optical axis. The method then controls the image receiving unit to receive the images, which are regarded as candidate images, projected on the positions by the projection unit. The candidate images correspond to the projective positions. The method further receives the candidate images captured by the image receiving unit, and compute their definitions. Therefore, the image with a greatest definition may be acquired and regarded as a focus image. The focus image's corresponding position is a focus position. After acquiring the focus position, an image may be projected thereon. The illustrated computing device is enabled to complete the image focusing automatically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicants: LITE-ON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION, SILITEK ELECTRONIC (GUANGZHOU) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yung-Yu HUANG, Hsi-Pin Li