Automatic Projector Display Surface Estimation Using Every-Day Imagery

Projector-based display systems have been used in computer graphics for about as long as the field has existed. While projector-based systems have many advantages, a significant disadvantage is the need to obtain an accurate analytical model of the mechanical setup, including the external parameters of the projectors, and a description of the display surface. We introduce a new method for the latter. Instead of employing some form of imperceptible structured light that requires non-trivial infrastructure, we continually observe images of whatever graphical content is being projected, to refine an ongoing estimate for the display surface geometry. In effect we enjoy the benefits of the high signal-to-noise ratio of “structured” light, but do not get to choose the structure. The approach is robust and accurate, and can be realized with commercial off-the-shelf components. And although we do not demonstrate this, it can be extended to include continual estimation of other system parameters that vary over time. The method can be used with a variety of projector-based displays, for scientific visualization, trade shows, entertainment, or the Office of the Future. CR