Multi-projector system gets diverse

Researchers from Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories have improved their multi-projector system to allow for the use of unlike projectors. The system automatically combines and calibrates the images from multiple networked projectors to create a single large display.

The system makes it possible to move a multi-projector setup from one part of a store to another, for instance, with little more effort than moving the projectors. This will enable large-scale projection in many more settings, including retail stores and outside building displays at night, according to the researchers.

The underlying principle of the system is that each projector is self-contained, but can sense neighboring projectors, determine their geometric location, and cooperate to create a combined display.

Supporting different types of projectors will make it easier to add new projectors to an existing set up, or for two people who each have different portable projectors to share them to create a larger display, according to the researchers.

Practical multi-projector systems could be produced in two to five years, according to the researchers. The researchers presented the work at the Society for Information Display (SIDS) International Symposium 2004 in Seattle, Washington, May 23 to 28.