U.S. patent application number 11/430244 was filed with the patent office on 2006-09-14 for image projection system and a method of controlling a projected pointer.
This patent application is currently assigned to Seiko Epson Corporation. Invention is credited to Kiyoshi Miyashita.
Application Number | 20060203203 11/430244 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 14473833 |
Filed Date | 2006-09-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060203203 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Miyashita; Kiyoshi |
September 14, 2006 |
Image projection system and a method of controlling a projected
pointer
Abstract
The present invention relates to an image projection system
whereby a display position of a pointer on a projected image can be
easily controlled from a location separated from the main control
means. The system comprises a liquid crystal projector, a personal
computer for controlling the liquid crystal projector to display a
pointer on a projected image in accordance with an operation signal
from a main operating section and a predetermined program, and a
remote controller for the liquid crystal projector. The remote
controller comprises a pointing device and a light emitting portion
for wirelessly transmitting an operation signal. The liquid crystal
projector comprises a light receiving portion for receiving
wirelessly transmitted signals. The personal computer controls the
liquid crystal projector to transfer the received signals to the
personal computer and further controls the display position of the
pointer according to the transferred pointing device operation
signals.
Inventors: |
Miyashita; Kiyoshi;
(Suwa-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OLIFF & BERRIDGE, PLC
P.O. BOX 19928
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22320
US
|
Assignee: |
Seiko Epson Corporation
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
14473833 |
Appl. No.: |
11/430244 |
Filed: |
May 9, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11287222 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
|
|
|
11430244 |
May 9, 2006 |
|
|
|
11076986 |
Mar 11, 2005 |
7059724 |
|
|
11287222 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
|
|
|
10315012 |
Dec 10, 2002 |
|
|
|
11076986 |
Mar 11, 2005 |
|
|
|
09548346 |
Apr 12, 2000 |
6558002 |
|
|
10315012 |
Dec 10, 2002 |
|
|
|
09084399 |
May 27, 1998 |
6186630 |
|
|
09548346 |
Apr 12, 2000 |
|
|
|
08573520 |
Dec 15, 1995 |
5782548 |
|
|
09084399 |
May 27, 1998 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
353/42 ;
348/E5.105; 348/E5.143 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B 1/202 20130101;
G06F 3/041 20130101; H04N 5/74 20130101; G06F 1/3259 20130101; H04N
21/42204 20130101; H04N 21/47 20130101; G03B 21/26 20130101; G09G
5/003 20130101; H04N 9/3141 20130101; H04N 21/42206 20130101; G06F
3/033 20130101; Y02D 30/50 20200801; H04N 5/7441 20130101; G06F
1/3228 20130101; G06F 3/038 20130101; G06F 2203/0384 20130101; Y02D
10/00 20180101; G06F 1/3203 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
353/042 |
International
Class: |
G03B 21/00 20060101
G03B021/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 7, 1995 |
JP |
7-108015 |
Claims
1. A remote controller which transmits operation signals from menu
keys and an operation signal from a pointing device to a projection
section, the projection section projecting a predetermined menu
image and being controlled to be adjustable based on the operation
signals from the menu keys, the projection section being controlled
to select a desired adjustment item from a plurality of operation
items on an adjustment menu displayed on a display screen based on
the operation signal from the pointing device, the remote
controller comprising: an operation section which includes the
pointing device and operation keys that receive operation of an
operator; a signal processing section which converts the operator's
operation of the pointing device and operation keys into operation
signals; and a transmission section which transmits the operation
signals to the projection section, the operation keys including the
menu keys which instruct display of an adjustment menu on the
display screen.
Description
[0001] This is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 11/287,222
filed Nov. 28, 2005, which in turn is a continuation of application
Ser. No. 11/076,986 filed Mar. 11, 2005, which in turn is a
continuation of application Ser. No. 10/315,012 filed Dec. 10,
2002, which in turn is a continuation of application Ser. No.
09/548,346 filed Apr. 12, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,558,002, which
in turn is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/084,399 filed
May 27, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,186,630, which in turn is a
divisional of application Ser. No. 08/573,520 filed Dec. 15, 1995,
now U.S. Pat. No. 5,782,548. The entire disclosure of the prior
applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to an image projection system
and a method of controlling a projected pointer.
[0003] Multimedia presentation systems utilizing personal computers
as the main control means are presently being developed and
commercialized. As one example of such systems, a liquid crystal
projector is controlled by a personal computer and the image from
the personal computer is projected onto a screen using the liquid
crystal projector.
[0004] Since the same image as shown on the computer display is
displayed as an enlarged image using the liquid crystal projector,
this image projection system is highly suitable for conducting
presentations before large audiences.
[0005] In the case of the above mentioned image projection system,
a mouse connected to the computer is operated for controlling the
position of a pointer such as a cursor projected on the screen.
However, during the course of the presentation, the presenter who
is standing off the computer cannot easily change the position of
the cursor. The presenter has to interrupt the presentation and
walk to the computer and mouse in order to change the cursor
position. This is inconvenient.
[0006] Furthermore, a keyboard connected to the computer must be
operated in order to perform functions regarding the liquid crystal
projector display such as, page controlling, and this is also very
inconvenient.
[0007] One conventional approach to solve these problems is to
provide a computer operator in addition to the presenter. However,
this type of system operation is costly, and a smooth presentation
cannot be conducted without close coordination between the
presenter and computer operator.
SUMMARY
[0008] The present invention recognizes these issues and one object
of the invention is to provide an image projection system and a
method of controlling a projected pointer, whereby the position of
the pointer on the projected image can be easily controlled from a
location separated from the main control means.
[0009] Another object of the invention is to provide a projection
system whereby the position of the pointer on the projected image
can be stably controlled from a location separated from the main
control means.
[0010] Another object of the invention is to provide a projection
system whose projecting means can be adjusted from a location
separated from the main control means.
[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide a projection
system whose projecting means can be remotely and stably adjusted
from every direction.
[0012] In order to achieve the above mentioned objectives, the
present invention comprises: [0013] a projecting means for
projecting an image onto a desired display area; [0014] a main
operating section including a main pointing device; [0015] a main
control means for controlling the projecting means to display a
pointer on a projected image in accordance with an operation signal
from the main operating section and a predetermined control
program; and [0016] a remote controller for the projecting means;
and [0017] the remote controller including a pointing device and a
wireless transmitting means for wirelessly transmitting an
operation signal; [0018] the projecting means including a wireless
receiving means for receiving the operation signal from the remote
controller; and [0019] the main control means including: [0020]
means for controlling the projecting means to transfer a received
signal from the projecting means to the main control means; and
[0021] a first detecting means for detecting an operation signal
from the main pointing device of the main operating section and an
operation signal from the pointing device of the remote controller
via the projection means; and [0022] wherein the main control means
gives priority to an operation signal from the main operating
section when operation signals from different portions are received
to control a position of the pointer.
[0023] A method of controlling a projected pointer of an image
projection system which comprises a projecting means for projecting
an image onto a desired display area, a main operating section
including a main pointing device, main control means for
controlling the projecting means to display a pointer on the image
projected by the projecting means in accordance with an operation
signal from the main operating section and a predetermined control
program, and a remote controller for wirelessly transmitting a
remote control signal to the projecting means, comprising the steps
of: [0024] wirelessly transmitting an operating signal from a
pointing device of the remote controller to the projecting means;
[0025] transferring the operating signal from the pointing device
of the remote controller received by the projecting means to the
main control means; [0026] detecting an operation signal from the
main pointing device and an operation signal from the pointing
device of the remote controller; and [0027] giving priority to an
operation signal from the main pointing device when operation
signals from different portions are received to control a position
of the pointer.
[0028] In the case of this invention, the main control means
controls the projecting means on the bases of the operation signals
from the main operating means and a predetermined control program
to project the image in a desired display area.
[0029] Examples of images that can be projected by the projecting
means include an image produced by the main control means itself,
and the playback video signals from a VTR, laser disk player and
other video playback devices.
[0030] During this operation, a position mark such as a cursor
controlled by the main control means can be displayed in the
projected image.
[0031] In the case of this invention, the remote controller
comprises a pointing device and wirelessly transmits the pointing
device operation signals toward the projecting means. The
projecting means transmits the received pointing device operation
signals to the main control means and the main control means the
positioning mark display position in the projected image display on
the basis of the pointing device operation signals.
[0032] As a result of this type of construction, an operator can
freely control the display position of the position mark on the
projected image by merely operating the pointing device of the
hand-held remote controller.
[0033] Consequently, when a system is constructed using a liquid
crystal projector as the projecting means and a personal computer
as the main control means, while using the liquid crystal projector
to display, for example, an enlargement of an image produced by the
personal computer, by operating the pointing device of the
hand-held remote controller, a presenter can change the display
position of the position mark (e.g., cursor) to match the progress
of the presentation.
[0034] Also, in the case of this type system, a main pointing
device is often connected to the main control means for changing
the display position of the cursor type position mark.
Consequently, if a conflict occurs between the operations of the
main and remote controller pointing devices, a problem arises
regarding which of these has priority. According to this invention,
in order to maintain system stability in event the above mentioned
conflict occurs, the system is constructed whereby priority is
assigned to the main pointing device operation signal for
controlling the display position of the position mark.
[0035] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, an application
program for controlling the projecting means is installed, controls
the projecting means in accordance with the application program and
an operation signal from the operating section.
[0036] As a result of this construction, even when a multi-media
presentation system is constructed by using an application program
on the market, a presenter can easily control the display position
of the position mark on the projected image by merely operating the
pointing device of the hand-held remote controller.
[0037] Also, in the preferred embodiment of this invention, the
remote controller further comprises operation keys to which
operations of the main operation section are assigned, and [0038]
wherein the main control means further comprises means for
assigning operations of the main operation section to the operation
keys and controls the projecting means in accordance with a signal
transmitted by operating the operation keys.
[0039] As a result of this construction, the user can input the
same signals produced when operating the main operating stage by
operating the operation keys provided on the hand-held remote
controller. Consequently, the overall system can be used
conveniently.
[0040] Also, in the preferred embodiment of this invention, the
main control means further comprises a second detecting means for
detecting an operation signal from the remote controller and an
operation signal from the main operation section, and gives
priority to an operation signal from the main operating section
when operation signals from different portions are received to
control the projecting means.
[0041] Consequently, in the case of a conflict between the input
signals from the remote controller and keyboard, priority can be
allocated to the input signal from the keyboard, thereby improving
overall stability of the system.
[0042] Also, in the preferred embodiment of this invention, the
main control means further comprises a display and is formed as a
personal computer with an application program; and [0043] wherein
the main operating section further comprises a keyboard and a
pointing device connected to the personal computer; and [0044]
wherein the projecting means is controlled by the personal computer
to project an image transmitted from the personal computer or image
reproducing means.
[0045] As a result of this construction, a commercially available
personal computer and projector can be combined to comprise a
multimedia presentation system using the projector to project a
large picture.
[0046] The present invention comprises: [0047] a projecting means
for projecting an image including a pointer onto a desired display
area; [0048] a remote controller having an operating portion
including a pointing device for controlling a display position of
the pointer, a lighting key and operation keys; and [0049] a main
control means for controlling the projecting means according to an
operation signal from the operating portion and a predetermined
control program, and for controlling a display position of the
pointer in accordance with an operation signal from the pointing
device, and [0050] wherein the remote controller comprises an
illuminating portion for illuminating the operating portion in
accordance with operation of the lighting keys, and a lighting
control portion for forcibly putting the illuminating portion off
during operation of the pointing device.
[0051] In the case of this invention, the lighting means lights to
illuminate the operating means keys of the remote controller on the
basis of lighted key lighting instructions. When the pointing
device of the remote controller is then operated the lighted
lighting means is actively extinguished.
[0052] In order to detect pointing device operation, the power
consumption is temporarily increased and the power supply circuit
voltage declines. As a result, the remote controller internal
circuit can operate unstably and impair stable remote control
operation.
[0053] This type of problem is resolved by forcibly cutting of the
lighting means when the pointing device is operated, thereby
avoiding power supply circuit instability and enabling stable
remote control.
[0054] In the case of the preferred embodiment of this invention,
the lighting means is forcibly extinguished during pointing device
operation, then again lighted after completion of pointing device
operation.
[0055] In this invention, the lighting control portion goes into a
sleep mode to accept no instructions from the lighting key when the
pointing device of the remote controller is not operated for a
predetermined period.
[0056] Thus, when the pointing device of the remote controller is
entirely unused for the predetermined time span, non-operation of
the remote controller itself is interpreted and even if a lighting
instruction is given by the lighted keys, the lighting means is
forcibly maintained at off.
[0057] As a result of this type construction, in event a lighted
key is activated for some reason while the remote controller is not
being used, the remote controller power consumption can be
conserved. Consequently, a video projection system with long term
stable remote control operation can be realized.
[0058] In particular, since this invention utilizes a lighting
means to forcibly cutoff the remote controller lighting function in
conjunction with the pointing device operation, and a sleep
function to conserve remote controller power consumption, stable
circuit operation together with stable remote control can be
realized.
[0059] The present invention comprises: [0060] a projecting means
for projecting an image including a pointer onto a desired display
area; [0061] a remote controller having an operating portion
including a pointing device for controlling a display position of
the pointer and operation keys; and [0062] a main control means for
controlling the projecting means according to an operation signal
from the operating portion and a predetermined control program, and
for controlling a display position of the pointer in accordance
with an operation signal from the pointing device, and [0063]
wherein the remote controller goes into a sleep mode to stop power
supply to the pointing device, when the pointing device is inactive
for a predetermined period.
[0064] When the pointing device of the remote controller is
entirely unused for the predetermined period, non-operation of the
remote controller itself is interpreted, and the electric power
supply to the pointing device of the remote controller, which
consumes a lot of electric power, is forcibly cut off.
[0065] As a result of this type construction, in event the pointing
device is activated for some reason while the remote controller is
not being used, the remote controller power consumption can be
conserved. Consequently, a video projection system with long term
stable remote control operation can be realized.
[0066] Also, this invention comprises: [0067] a projecting means
for projecting an image including a pointer onto a desired display
area; [0068] a remote controller having an operating portion
including a pointing device for controlling a display position of
the pointer and operation keys; and [0069] a main control means for
controlling the projecting means according to an operation signal
from the operating portion and a predetermined control program, and
for controlling a display position of the pointer in accordance
with an operation signal from the pointing device, and [0070]
wherein the remote controller transmits a signal for adjusting the
projecting means by combining operations of the pointing device and
the keys.
[0071] As a result of this invention, adjustment signals are
transmitted from the remote controller by combined operation of the
pointing device and operating keys, thereby enabling the projecting
means to be adjusted from a separated position.
[0072] In particular, this invention is constructed whereby
combined operation of the pointing device and keys transmits
adjustment signals from the remote controller to the projecting
means. Consequently, the projecting means can be effectively
adjusted using a limited number of individual keys disposed on the
remote controller.
[0073] In the case of a preferred embodiment of this invention, the
pointing device and keys for combined operation of the operating
section are disposed as mutually related groups.
[0074] Further, the pointing device and keys for combination
operation disposed on the operation portion have the same
color.
[0075] As results of these combinations, the projecting means
adjustment functions can be easily understood by the user and
convenience is greatly enhanced.
[0076] For example, by using the same color to designate a group of
pointing device and keys, combined operation is easily comprehended
by the user and can be performed easily.
[0077] Also, the present invention comprises a projecting means for
projecting an image onto a desired display area, and a remote
controller for the projecting means; [0078] wherein the remote
controller includes a wireless transmitting means for wirelessly
transmitting an operation signal; and [0079] wherein the projecting
means includes a plurality of wireless receiving means for
receiving the operation signal which may be transmitted from
different directions.
[0080] As a result of this type construction, at any change of
relative position between the remote controller and projecting
means, signals are reliably transmitted from the remote controller
toward the projecting means and stable remote control operation is
enabled.
[0081] Cases often arise during presentations wherein another
person conducts part of the presentation, while the presenter moves
to a different position and controls the projecting means using the
remote controller. In these type of situations, even when the
relative position of the remote controller held by the presenter
and the projecting means changes, the present invention enables
reliable transmission of the remote control signals toward the
projector and stable remote control.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0082] FIG. 1 is a descriptive drawing showing an example of a user
operating a liquid crystal projector by means of a remote
controller;
[0083] FIG. 2 is a descriptive drawing showing the correspondence
between a light emitting means for wireless transmission provided
in the remote controller and light receiving means for wireless
reception provided in the liquid crystal projector;
[0084] FIG. 3 shows an example of a remote controller;
[0085] FIG. 4 is an abbreviated descriptive drawing of an example
of a video projection system according to this invention comprising
a remote controller, liquid crystal projector and personal
computer;
[0086] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the system shown in
FIG. 4;
[0087] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of main components of
the system shown in FIG. 5;
[0088] FIG. 7 is an operation flow chart of the system shown in
FIG. 6;
[0089] FIG. 8 is a descriptive drawing of the assignment setting
screen shown on the display.
[0090] FIG. 9 is a descriptive drawing of the remote controller
internal circuit;
[0091] FIG. 10 is a flow chart of the remote controller lighting
control operation;
[0092] FIG. 11 is a flow chart of the remote controller lighting
control operation;
[0093] FIG. 12 is a flow chart of the projector function adjustment
operation procedure;
[0094] FIG. 13 is a descriptive drawing indicating the projector
function adjustment procedure using the remote controller;
[0095] FIG. 14 is a flow chart of the projector function adjustment
using the remote controller; and
[0096] FIG. 15 is a descriptive drawing illustrating an example of
a function adjustment screen displayed when using the
projector.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0097] Following is a description of the preferred embodiment of
the present invention with reference to the attached drawings.
[0098] FIG. 1 shows an example of a configuration when a projecting
means comprising a liquid crystal projector 10 is used to project a
predetermined image from a projector output 12 to a desired display
area, such as a screen 16. The liquid crystal projector 10 is
constructed so as to enable connecting a plurality of video sources
to the terminals thereof.
[0099] In the case of the present embodiment, two video sources can
be connected. A first video source terminal allows connecting a
video signal supplied from a computer, and a second video source
terminal allows connecting a video playback device such as a video
deck, video camera and video disk player. By selecting the video
source, the video signal from the computer and video playback
device can be selected and projected as a large size picture on the
screen 16.
[0100] Although the basic operations of the liquid crystal
projector 10 can be performed from the various operating facilities
provided in the projector mainframe, in the case of this
embodiment, the liquid crystal projector 10 can also be remotely
operated by using a remote controller 20 for the projector.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 2, an infrared light emitting means 36 is
provided at the end of the remote controller 20 as a wireless
transmitting means for transmitting operation signals to the
projector 10.
[0102] Wireless receiver mean comprising infrared light receiver
means 14a and 14b respectively having receiving ranges of 30
degrees left and right in the horizontal direction for a total of
60 degrees are disposed respectively on the front and rear panels
of the liquid crystal projector 10. Consequently, an operator can
remotely operate the projector 10 from either the front or rear
direction of the projector 10 by using the remote controller
20.
[0103] FIG. 3 shows an abbreviated plan view of the remote
controller 20.
[0104] In order to remotely operate the liquid crystal projector 10
when power is supplied, the remote controller 20 comprises an
operating section 400 having a key group 22 comprising a plurality
of buttons.
[0105] The key group 22 comprises buttons for standby 22a, source
select 22b, audio volume adjustment 22c, audio mute 22d, freeze
22e, brightness adjustment 22f, light level 22g, sync adjustment
22h, and other functions 24a, 24b and 24c.
[0106] When the standby button 22a is pressed, the liquid crystal
projector 10 lamp lights and warmup begins. The display image is
selected for the first or second source by operating the source
select button 22b. The output sound volume from a speaker provided
in the liquid crystal projector 10 can be adjusted by operating the
audio volume adjust button 22c. The sound can be muted by pressing
the audio mute button 22d, and restored by again pressing the audio
mute button 22d. A still picture can be displayed by operating the
freeze button 22e, and the still display mode can be released by
again operating this button. The picture brightness can be adjusted
by operating the brightness adjust button 22f. When the light level
button 22g is pressed, the remote controller 20 operating section
400 lights for approximately 10 seconds, thus enabling easy
operation in dark surroundings. Operating the sync adjust button
22h allows adjusting for flickering or out of focus images for
optimum clarity.
[0107] Construction of the illumination mechanism for lighting the
operating section 400 according to the light level key 22g
operation is described later below.
[0108] Except for the light level button 22g, the same operations
as the key group 22 are also provided in the liquid crystal
projector mainframe.
[0109] The remote controller 20 enables performing the same
operations as provided by the operating means of the liquid crystal
projector 10 from a separated location.
[0110] As indicated in FIG. 4, in the case of this embodiment, the
liquid crystal projector 10, remote controller 20 and a personal
computer 40 functioning as the main control means can be combined
to comprise a video projection system for multimedia presentations
utilizing the personal computer 40 for controlling the liquid
crystal projector 10.
[0111] The personal computer 40 comprises a computer mainframe 42,
a display 44, and a keyboard 46 and a mouse 48 function as main
operating portion connected to the computer mainframe 42. The
liquid crystal projector 10 and personal computer 40 mainframe 42
are connected via a serial transmission line 50 (RS-232C) for
serial transmission of digital data.
[0112] By constructing a system in this manner whereby the liquid
crystal projector 10 is directly operated from the computer 40,
when conducting a presentation using a system according to this
embodiment, for example, not only the projector 10 adjustments such
as picture brightness and sound volume, but also picture display
control functions such as page advance, page reverse, and window
open and close, can be performed without interrupting the
presentation.
[0113] A predetermined operating system 100 and projector 10 driver
software 110 are installed beforehand in the computer mainframe 42
and stored in an internal memory. In addition, various types of
application software are also installed in the computer mainframe
42. In the case of this embodiment, application software for
presentation use is installed.
[0114] The driver software 110 is a type of device driver.
According to commands produced by the operating program 100 and
application software 120, the driver software 110 performs actual
detailed processing and data transfer with respect to the liquid
crystal projector 10 in the computer 40.
[0115] In particular, the driver software 110 is comprised so as to
completely control the liquid crystal projector 10 via the serial
transmission line 50. In practical terms, a completely different
picture from the projector 10 image is displayed for adjustment on
the display 44 of the computer 40, while the liquid crystal
projector 10 brightness, sound volume and other adjustments are
performed by the remote controller 20 and the operation means
provided in the projector 10 mainframe. These types of operations
are performed by the operator using the mouse 48 and keyboard 46 to
apply the required commands to the computer 40.
[0116] As mentioned above, when conducting a presentation or other
program wherein application software 120 for presentations is
installed in the computer mainframe 42 and the projector 10 is used
to display an image for presentation on the screen 16, the personal
computer 40 operator operates predetermined keys of the keyboard 46
and operates the mouse 48 functioning as a pointing device to
control the display position of the cursor or other indicator.
[0117] In particular, when conducting a presentation wherein a
cursor points to a part of the screen, the cursor is shifted to the
required icon display position, and a command is selected, and when
expanding or compressing a certain display area within the picture,
and when opening another window within the picture, the mouse 48 is
normally used for controlling the cursor display position.
[0118] Also, when inputting various commands, characters and other
types of data to the personal computer 40, the operator operates
predetermined keys of the keyboard 46 according to
requirements.
[0119] Consequently, if a projection system combining a personal
computer 40 and projector 10 such as illustrated in FIG. 4 is
adopted, the operator must be located near the personal computer 40
in order to operate the mouse 48 and keyboard 46. As a result, the
presenter conducting a presentation using the projector 10 must
continually convey various instructions to the operator operating
the personal computer 40. In absence of an operator, the presenter
must continually shift to the personal computer 40 position and
operate the mouse 48 and keyboard 46. In either of these cases, a
smooth presentation cannot be conducted.
[0120] In order to resolve this type of difficulty, the remote
controller 20 according to the present embodiment incorporates
pointing device functions of the mouse 48 or other devices
connected to the personal computer 40 mainframe, and input
functions for commands and data sent from the mouse 48 and keyboard
46.
[0121] The remote controller 20 operating section 400 example shown
in FIG. 3 comprises a trackball means 28 functioning as a pointing
device, a key group 22 and a button group 24.
[0122] The trackball means 28 comprises a trackball 28a, a drag
button 28b and an opposing adjust button 28c. The computer
mainframe 42 with installed driver software 110 controlling the
projector 10 was previously described.
[0123] Operation signals transmitted wirelessly using infrared
light 200 from the remote controller 20 directed toward the
projector 10 are first transferred from the projector 10 to the
computer mainframe 42 via the serial transmission line 50. The
computer mainframe 42 then assigns the various functions with
respect to the remote controller 20 trackball means and key group.
When an operation signal is input from the remote controller 20,
various computation processes are performed according to the
functions assigned to the input signal.
[0124] Subsequently, the projector 10 control, image display
control and other required computations and controls are
performed.
[0125] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of a video projection
system according to the present embodiment.
[0126] As mentioned above, the remote controller 20 includes a
trackball means 28 and operation key group 22. A signal processor
34 is used to convert these signals into digital signals sent
wirelessly via infrared light 200 from the infrared transmitter
means 36 to the projector 10.
[0127] The projector 10 comprises a main projector mechanism 64
performing the basic operations as a projector, a computation
controller 62 comprising a CPU and memory for controlling the main
projector mechanism 64, a signal processor 60 for processing the
signals from the remote controller 20 received by an infrared
receiver means 14 and converting these into electrical signals
supplied to the computation controller 62, and an I/O interface 66
for connection to external equipment.
[0128] When the projector 10 is under the control of the personal
computer 40, the computation controller 62 transfers the operation
signals from the remote controller 20 received by the infrared
receiver means 14 to the personal computer 40 via the I/O interface
66 and serial transmission line 50. In addition, the main projector
mechanism 64 and other locations controlled on the bases of various
control signal inputs from the personal computer 40 via the serial
transmission line 50 and I/O interface 66.
[0129] The computer mainframe 42 of the personal computer 40
comprises a main computation control circuit 70 comprising a CPU
and other circuits, a memory 76 comprising RAM, ROM and other
circuits for storing the application software 120, driver software
110, operating system 100 programs and other required data, and I/O
interfaces 72 and 74 for performing external connections.
[0130] The main computation control circuit 70 processes the remote
controller 20 operation signals transferred via the projector 10 in
the same manner as the mouse 48 and keyboard 46 comprising the main
operating portion 52, and performs various computation control
operations.
[0131] In the case of this embodiment, the operation signals of the
trackball means 28 and mouse 48 are processed in the same manner.
Also, the commands and key operations assigned to the operation key
group 22, and the corresponding commands from the mouse 48 and
keyboard 46, and the corresponding key inputs from the keyboard 46
are processed in the same manner.
[0132] In event a conflict occurs between the operation signals
from the remote controller 20 and the operation signals from the
keyboard 46 and mouse 48 comprising the main operating portion 52
(for example, a conflict between the operations of the trackball
means 28 and mouse 48), the signals from the remote controller 20
are disregarded and priority is given to the operation signals from
the main operating portion 52. The reason for this configuration is
because application software for presentations is generally
composed on the concept of operating a main operating means 52
comprising a mouse 48 and keyboard 46 directly connected to the
personal computer 40, and not from the viewpoint of signals from a
remote controller 20. Consequently, overall system stability can be
increased by assigning processing priority to operation signals
from the main operating means 52.
[0133] As a result of this embodiment, personal computer 40
operations which ordinarily needed to be performed by means of a
directly connected mouse 48 and keyboard 46 can be easily performed
by means of a hand-held remote controller 20. Moreover, a
multimedia presentation using a system comprising a projector 10
and personal computer 40 can be efficiently and smoothly
conducted.
[0134] In particular, the pointing device function for controlling
a cursor position is an extremely important factor in various types
of application software. By providing this type of pointing device
function in the remote controller 20, presentations using the
projector 10 can be performed very smoothly.
[0135] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a computer mainframe
42 comprising a memory 76 and main computation control circuit 70.
The computer mainframe 42 according to this embodiment comprises an
assigning means 80, a detector means 86 and a computation control
means 88.
[0136] FIG. 7 shows an abbreviated flow chart of the assignment
setting operation for the remote controller 20 trackball means 28
and operation key group 22.
[0137] The programmable mode for performing assignments can be set
by operating the keyboard 46 and mouse 48 connected to the computer
mainframe 42 (Step S 10).
[0138] When the programmable mode is set, an assignment setting
screen such as indicated in FIG. 8 is displayed on the personal
computer 40 display 44 and projected from the projector 10. Icons
for respective buttons key set 310, key help 312, execute 314 and
button test are displayed at the top of the screen.
[0139] At the bottom of the screen, a program assignment box 330
showing the present assignments for the remote controller operating
means 320 and other operating means is displayed.
[0140] In this state, the assignment enable mode is set by shifting
the cursor at the top of the screen to the key set button 310 icon
and clicking (step S12). By then shifting the cursor to the
required operating button of the operating means display 320 and
clicking, the corresponding button is highlighted and the
corresponding button within the program assignment box 330 is
displayed. In the FIG. 8 example, buttons for page return 24c, page
advance 24d, drag 28b and the pair of adjust buttons 28c are shown
selected for respective assignments.
[0141] After selecting the buttons in this manner, the various
functions are assigned to the selected buttons. In this example,
the mouse 48 functions such as click and drag are assigned to the
five selected buttons.
[0142] Also, according to requirements, page advance, page return
and other commands, macros (maximum 32 keystrokes and mouse command
sequence) and other key inputs can be assigned. By setting in this
manner, a required program can be opened by simply pressing
corresponding buttons of the remote controller 20 during the
presentation.
[0143] The keyboard 46, for example, can be used for assigning
these types of functions.
[0144] After completing assignments, by shifting the cursor to the
execute button 314 position and selecting this button the computer
mainframe 42 is set to the check mode (step S14). As a result, the
various functions using the remote controller 20 assigned in the
assignment enable mode (step S12) can be executed.
[0145] Afterwards, when the test button 316 is selected, a text
screen appears in the display and projector screens indicating the
keystrokes assigned to the remote controller 20 buttons, whereupon
the user can check whether or not the assignments were correctly
performed by observing the screen display.
[0146] If a setting error is noted at this time, it is sufficient
to return to step S110 and change the assignment as required.
Conversely, in order to confirm the assignments were correctly
performed (step S118), again operate the test button 316 to release
the test mode, whereupon the assignment operation with respect to
the remote controller 20 is completed.
[0147] The data assigned to each key are stored in an assigned data
memory means 84. Afterwards, on the basis of the input signal from
the remote controller, the assignment setting means 82 converts the
data into a signal expressing the assignment function corresponding
to the input signal sent to the detector means 86. For example, at
the operation signal inputs from buttons 24b and 24c, the operation
signals are converted into mouse 48 click and drag signals, and
sent to the detector means 86. The assignment functions
corresponding to the mouse 48 operation with respect to the remote
controller 20 trackball means 28a are stored beforehand in the
assigned data memory means 84.
[0148] Consequently, when the trackball means 28a is moved up,
down, left and right, and the corresponding signals are sent from
the remote controller 20 to the assignment setting means 82, the
assignment setting means 82 converts these into mouse 48 operation
signals for supply to the detector means 86. As a result of this
operation, by operating the remote controller 20, the same
operation signals as the mouse 48 and keyboard 46 are sent to the
computer mainframe 42, thereby enabling control of the computer
mainframe 42.
[0149] The function of the detector means 86 indicated in FIG. 6 is
described as follows. A signal input applied from the assignment
setting means 82 is compared with an input signal from the main
operating means 52 comprising the mouse 48 and keyboard 46. The
detector means 86 then detects whether or not there is a conflict
with respect to the input from the remote controller 20. In absence
of a conflict, the present input signal is sent directly to the
computation control means 88. For example, when a signal input is
supplied only from the remote controller 20 while an input signal
from the mouse 48 and keyboard 46 is absent, the input signal is
supplied directly to the computation control means 88. Conversely,
if there is a conflict between the signals from the main operating
portion 52 and remote controller 20, only the input signal from the
main operating portion 52 is sent to the computation control means
88 and recognition of the signal from the remote controller 20 is
denied. As a result, the overall system stability can be increased
as mentioned above.
[0150] The computation control means 88 computes the control signal
in accordance with the selected input signal via the detector means
86 and the above mentioned computation control programs 100, 110
and 120 for supply to the projector 10, and computes each type of
video signal for supply to the display 44 and projector 10. In
addition, the computation control means 88 computes and supplies
the projector control signal output in accordance with the input
signal from the projector 10.
[0151] As a result of this embodiment, by using remote control
signals from a remote controller 20 ordinarily designed for a
projector, a computer mainframe 42 can be operated in the same
manner as from signals from a mouse 48 and keyboard 46, and the
projector 10 can be controlled with respect to the computer
mainframe 42.
[0152] In particular, in the case of the present system, since
various functions are assigned to the remote controller 20 used for
controlling the projector 10 for controlling the personal computer
40, the computer can be directly operated by using the remote
controller 20. As a result, an extremely easy to use video
projection system for multimedia presentations can be comprised
using a projector 10 and personal computer 40.
[0153] Following is a description of the remote controller 20
lighting mechanism according to this embodiment.
[0154] When the light level button 22g is set to on, the operating
section 400 of the remote controller 20 lights for a predetermined
period of time. Therefore, the operating section 400 comprises a
plurality of buttons and a trackball 28a disposed on a
semi-transparent substrate 402, and a plurality of illuminating
LEDs disposed at the rear of the substrate 402 for illuminating the
operating section 400.
[0155] FIG. 9 shows the circuit construction of the remote
controller 20 lighting mechanism.
[0156] The remote controller 20 comprises a replaceable battery
410, an operation detector 420 detecting operation of the trackball
28a, an operation switch matrix 430 detecting operation of
respective button groups 24 and 28, a CPU 440 controlling the
overall remote controller, illuminating LEDs 450 disposed at the
rear of the substrate 402 and illuminating the operating section
400, and a light emitting means 36 comprising a transmitting LED
36a.
[0157] The CPU 400 controls a transistor Q1 to drive the
transmitting LED 36a to wirelessly transmit remote control signals
using infrared light 200 from the light emitting means 36 toward
the projector 10.
[0158] In addition, the CPU 440 detects the light level button 22g
operation on the basis of a signal from the operation switch matrix
430 and switches transistor Q2 on to light the illumination LED
group 450 for a predetermined period of time.
[0159] Also, the operation detector 420 detects trackball 28a
operation and sends a detection signal to the CPU 440. As a result,
the CPU 440 wirelessly transmits the trackball 28a operation signal
toward the projector via the transmitting LED 36a.
[0160] When the operation detector 420 detects the trackball 28a
operation, the power consumption increases. Consequently, the
voltage temporarily declines in the remote controller 20 circuit
due to using a small capacity battery 410, thereby presenting a
risk of overall circuit operating instability. In order to prevent
this occurrence, the CPU 440 forcibly switches off transistor Q2
when the operation detector 420 detects trackball operation in
order to extinguish the illumination LED group 450. As a result,
power supply circuit instability during trackball 28a operation can
be avoided and reliable remote control operation can be
achieved.
[0161] In addition, when a signal input from the operation detector
is absent for a predetermined length of time (15 minutes in the
present example), the CPU 440 shifts to a sleep mode whereby
lighting commands from the light level button 22g are not
recognized. Thus, when the trackball 28a is completely inactive for
15 minutes, non-operation of the remote controller 20 is
interpreted and power consumption of the remote controller 20 is
conserved by operating the lighting function in the sleep mode.
[0162] In addition, when a signal input from the operation detector
420 is absent for a predetermined length of time, the CPU 440
shifts to a sleep mode whereby the electric power supply from the
battery 410 to the operation detector 420 is forcibly cut off in
order to put the trackball into sleep. The electric power is again
supplied to the operation detector 420 when any one of the
operation keys is operated. As a result of this, electric power
consumption of the remote controller 20 is conserved during the
remote controller 20 is not operated even when the trackball 28a is
operated by mistake.
[0163] FIG. 10 indicates a flow chart of the circuit light level
control operation.
[0164] When the remote controller 20 light level button is set to
on (step S30), transistor Q2 is switched on (step S32) and controls
the illumination LED group 450 lighting. As a result, the operating
section 400 is lit from the rear of the semi-transparent substrate
402, thereby enabling easy operation even in darkened
surroundings.
[0165] Simultaneously with control of the illuminating LED group
450 lighting, the CPU 440 internal lighting timer starts (step S34)
and after 10 seconds elapse (step S44), transistor Q2 is controlled
to automatically extinguish the illumination LED group 450 (step
S46).
[0166] Also, pressing either one of the buttons 24 and 28 while the
illumination LED group 450 is lighted (step S36) resets the
lighting timer (step S34). As a result, lighting of the operating
section 400 continues only when either of these buttons is
operated.
[0167] When the trackball 28a is operated during lighting (step
S38), transistor Q2 is automatically switched off, thereby forcibly
extinguishing the illumination LED group 450. Afterwards, when the
trackball 28a operation stops, transistor Q2 switches on to thereby
resume LED group 450 lighting.
[0168] Therefore, during trackball 28a operation, which consumes a
large amount of power, the illumination LED group 450 is forcibly
cutoff, thereby minimizing battery 410 voltage decline and enabling
stable remote control operation.
[0169] FIG. 11 shows a flow chart of the sleep function according
to this embodiment.
[0170] In complete absence of operating section 400 operation, the
CPU 440 assumes a stand-by mode (step S50). When any button is
operated (step S52), transistor Q3 switches on (step S54) and the
CPU 440 timer starts (step S56).
[0171] At a trackball 28a operation signal input during timer
operation, the CPU 440 transmits this signal using transmitting LED
36a (step S60) and restarts the timer (step S56).
[0172] Also, in complete absence of a trackball 28a operating
signal input for 15 minutes after timer start (step S62),
transistor Q3 is forcibly switched off (step S64) and the stand-by
mode is produced (step S66). In the stand-by mode, even if the
light level button is operated, the operation signal is not
recognized by the CPU 440.
[0173] In this manner, if the trackball 28a of the remote
controller 20 is completely inoperative for 15 minutes, absence of
remote controller operation is interpreted and the sleep mode is
produced wherein the illumination LED group 450 light commands are
disregarded, thereby enabling conservation of the remote controller
20 power consumption.
[0174] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the
lighting function of the remote controller 20 illumination LED
group 450 is forcibly cutoff in conjunction with the trackball 28a
operation and sleep operation is produced, thereby both conserving
the remote controller 20 power consumption and enabling stable
circuit operation.
[0175] Also, the remote controller 20 is provided with projector 10
adjustment functions.
[0176] The projector 10 according to this embodiment comprises an
adjustment operating section (not shown in the figures) whereby
operating the facilities such as menu and select buttons of this
adjustment operating section, can select and display predetermined
menu screens such as indicated by the flow chart of FIG. 12. While
a desired menu screen is displayed, adjustment is performed by
operating predetermined adjustment buttons corresponding to
adjustment items displayed on the screen.
[0177] In the case of this example, following are among the
functions adjusted by referring to the respective menu screens,
[0178] Computer menu screen: screen brightness an contrast; [0179]
Video menu screen: red, blue and green; [0180] Display menu screen:
tracking and signal format; [0181] Sound menu screen: volume, and
left and right balance; [0182] Option menu screen: input source
select and language; and [0183] Custom menu screen: program button
function assignment and switching.
[0184] The remote controller 20 operating section 400 also
comprises functions for adjusting the projector 10. In the case of
the present example, projector 10 adjustments using the remote
controller 20 are mainly performed by combined operation of a menu
button 22j, select button 22e and trackball section 28. As
indicated in FIG. 3, in order to enable the user to visually
distinguish the adjustment functions of the buttons 22j and 22e,
and the trackball section 28, uniform colors identify the
respective areas 402j, 402e and 404 of the substrate 402 where the
buttons 22j, 22e and trackball section 28 are disposed.
[0185] Following is a description of projector 10 adjustment using
the remote controller 20 with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.
[0186] Press the remote controller 20 menu button 22j, then operate
the select button 22e to select a desired menu screen from among
four menu screens. The menu button 22j and select button 22e
operation signals are wirelessly transmitted from the remote
controller 20 to the projector 10. On the bases of these received
signals, the projector 10 operates in the same manner as when
operating the adjustment mechanism provided in the projector
itself.
[0187] In order to simplify the description, an example of
selecting the computer menu screen, indicated in FIG. 15, is
described below.
[0188] FIG. 13 illustrates the remote controller operating
procedure for selecting a desired item from the computer menu
screen and adjusting the corresponding function. A flow chart of
the procedure is shown in FIG. 14.
[0189] When the FIG. 15 computer menu is selected, the Bright
adjustment item of the menu is initially highlighted, thereby
indicating this function has been selected for adjustment.
[0190] To select another function item, the user operates the
trackball 28a as indicated in FIG. 13A. The projector 10 receives
the operating signal and sequentially shifts the function items in
response to the trackball operation (steps S70 and S72). When the
desired item has been selected, the user stops trackball operation
and uses the left and right adjust buttons 28c and 28c to adjust
the function as shown in FIG. 13B. Pressing the plus button
increases the adjustment value and pressing the minus button
decreases the adjustment value, as indicated by the graphic display
(steps S74 and S78).
[0191] By repeating this procedure of selecting a desired function
item and adjusting the selected function item, each function item
can be adjusted in sequence.
[0192] After completing the adjustments of the computer menu
screen, the next menu screen can be selected by simply operating
the select button 22e (steps S80 and S82). By repeatedly operating
the select button a desired number of times, the menu screens are
selected and displayed according to the flow chart of FIG. 12. To
then adjust selected function items within a selected menu screen,
merely perform in the same manner as steps S70-S78 indicated in
FIG. 14.
[0193] When all function adjustments have been completed, press the
remote controller 20 menu button 22j (step S84) to thereby end the
menu display (step S86).
[0194] As described above, the system according to the present
embodiment enables adjusting the projector 10 functions by using
the remote controller 20. In particular, the buttons and trackball
section 28 used for combined operation of the remote controller 20
are designated by the same colors on the substrate and since the
relationships are easily identified visually, usage is rendered
highly convenient.
[0195] The foregoing description does not limit the present
invention and numerous variations are possible within the scope of
this invention.
[0196] For example, the above description related to an example of
using this invention for a presentation system. However, this
invention can also be applied to numerous other types of systems as
required, for example, teaching systems conveying lessons from
instructor to students and system for various types of seminars, in
addition to sales demonstration systems and others.
[0197] An example of using infrared light for wireless transmission
between the remote controller 20 and projector 10 was also
described. However, other methods, such as various types of radio
signals, can also be used as required.
[0198] The description also related to an example of using a
projector 10 as the projection stage. However, this invention can
also be applied to numerous other types of projection devices, such
as overhead projectors.
[0199] The description also mentioned an example of using a
trackball as the pointing device for the remote controller 20.
However, various other types of pointing devices can also be used
for the remote controller according to requirements.
* * * * *