WO2013006319A1

WO2013006319A1 - Universal interface for 3d glasses

Info

Publication number: WO2013006319A1
Application number: PCT/US2012/044298
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jure Bezgovsek; Rodney W. Kimmell; Boyd Macnaughton; David W. Allen; Ami Dror
Original assignee: X6D Limited
Priority date: 2011-07-05
Filing date: 2012-06-27
Publication date: 2013-01-10

Abstract

A method of transmitting signals for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses including receiving a signal from an emitter of a display device, identifying a protocol of the signal from the emitter, converting data of the signal from the protocol to a universal protocol, and retransmitting the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol.

Description

UNIVERSAL INTERFACE FOR 3D GLASSES

1. CROSS-REFERENCE TO RE LATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/504,352, attorney docket no. 092847.000960, filed on 7/5/20 1 , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

2. BACKGROUND

[0002] This disclosure relates to image processing systems for the presentation of a video image that appears three dimensional to the viewer. The television industry has incorporated various techniques of 3D presentation into modem televisions. For example, 3D televisions may use stereoscopic capture, multi-view capture, a two dimensional (2D) plus depth format, or a 3D display (i.e., a display capable of presenting offset images that are presented separately to the left and right eye).

[0003] In the case of 3D displays, the independent presentation of separate images to each eye may be accomplished with our without eyeglasses. For example, eyeglasses may be used to filter the separate offset images to each eye. In another example, the light source of the television may split the images directiona!ly into each eye, allowing the viewer to experience the 3D presentation without glasses. If active eyeglasses are used, wireless emitters are typically used to synchronize separate images of the 3D displays with, for example, shutter eyeglasses, allowing the shutter eyeglasses to filter the separate images to each eye. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary system for viewing 3D images.

[0005] Fig. 2 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary method of operating the system of Fig. 1.

[0006] Figs. 3a and 3 are schematic illustrations of an exemplary system for viewing 3D images.

[0007] Fig, 4 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of operating the systems of Figs. 1 , 3a and 3b.

[0008] Figs. 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d is a flow chart illustration of an exempiary embodiment of operating 3D shutter glasses.

[0009] Figs. 6a_; 6b and 6c is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating the systems of Figs. 1 , 3a and 3b,

[0010] Figs. 7a and 7b is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating the systems of Figs. 1 , 3a and 3b.

[001 1] Fig. 8 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating 3D shutter glasses.

[0012] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating 3D shutter glasses.

[0013] Fig. 10 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating 3D shutter glasses.

[0014] Figs. 1 1a-11s is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a method of operating 3D shutter glasses. [0015] Fig, 12 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary system for viewing 3D images.

[0016] Fig. 13 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary method of operating the system of Fig. 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In the drawings and description that follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Certain features of the invention may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The present invention is susceptible to embodiments of different forms. Specific embodiments are described in detail and are shown in the drawings, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that illustrated and described herein, it is to be fully recognized that the different teachings of the embodiments discussed below may be employed separatel or in any suitable combination to produce desired results. The various characteristics mentioned above, as well as other features and characteristics described in more detail below, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments, and b referring to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] Referring to Fig. 1 , an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 for viewing 3D images includes a display device 102, having an internal clock 102a, that is operably coupled to a signal transmitter 104.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 102 may, for example, be a television, movie screen, liquid crystal display, computer monitor, or other display device, adapted to display, for example, left and right images intended for viewing by the left and right eyes, respectively, of a user of the system 00. [0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the signal transmitter 104 operabiy coupied to the display device 102 is adapted to transmits signals for contro!iing the operation of one or more pairs of conventional 3D glasses 106.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses 106 include left and right shutters, 108 and 110, and left and right shutter controllers, 112 and 114, for controlling the operation of corresponding left and right shutters. in several exemplary embodiments, the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, may, for example, include liquid crystals such as Pi cells and/or twisted nematic cells, or functional equivalents thereof. A CPU 118, having a clock 118a, is operabiy coupled to the left and right shutter controller, 112 and 114, for controlling and monitoring the operation of the left and right shutter controllers. A signal sensor 120 is also operabiy coupied to the CPU 118 for sensing signals transmitted to the 3D glasses 106. In several exemplary embodiments, the signal sensor 120 may be adapted to sense any number of different types of signals, including, for example, infrared, radio frequency, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, combinations of such signals, and/or other signals. A battery 122 and a battery sensor 124 may also be operabiy coupled to the CPU 118 for providing electrical power and sensing a level of available electrical power, respectively, in several exemplary embodiments, the battery 122 may, for example, be removable, rechargeable, or both. n an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses 106 may also, o in the alternative, be directly powered by an external power source. The general design and operation of the 3D glasses 106 are considered well known to persons having ordinary skill in the art.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the signal transmitter 104 is adapted to transmit signals such as, for example, electromagnetic, infrared, acoustic, and/or radio frequency signals that may or may not be transmitted through an insulated conductor and/or through free space. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the signal transmitter 104 may transmit one or more signals at the same time, which may or may not include the same information.

[0023] Referring to Fig. 2, in an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 implements a method 200 of operation in which, in 202, the system determines if the operation of the 3D glasses 106 with the display device 102 should be initialized. In an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 may determine that the operation of the 3D glasses 106 with the display device 102 should be Initialized if, for example, the power supply for either device is cycled from off to on or if the user of the system selects an initialization of operation of the 3D glasses with the display device 102.

[0024] If the system determines that the operation of the 3D glasses 106 with the display device 102 should be initialized in 202, then, in 204, an information word is transmitted from the display device 102 using the signal transmitter 104 and received by the signal sensor 120, In an exemplary embodiment, the information word may include one or more of the following: 1) the type of display device, 2} the operating frequency of the display device, 3) the opening and closing sequence of the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, and 4) the 3D display format that will be used by the display device 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the information word is then used by the 3D glasses 106 to control the operation of the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, to permit the wearer of the 3D glasses to view 3D images by viewing the display device 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the information word is also used initially to synchronize the clock 102a of the display device 02 with the clock 118a of the CPU 118 of the 3D glasses. In this manner, the opening and closing of the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, may be initially synchronized with the corresponding images intended for viewing through the respective shutters.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 then determines if a time out period has expired in 208. if the time out period has expired, then, in 208, the transmitter 104 then transmits a synchronization signal to the signal sensor 120. in an exemplary embodiment, the synchronization signal includes a synchronization pulse, a time of transmission of the synchronization signal and a time delay of the transmission of the synchronization signal. In this manner, the synchronization signal is used to resynchronize the clock 102a of the display device 102 with the clock 118a of the CPU 118 of the 3D glasses. In this manner, the opening and closing of the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, may be resynchronized with the corresponding images intended for viewing through the respective shutters. [0028] In an exemplary embodiment, if the time deiay of the transmission of the synchronization signal is anything other than a zero value, the non-zero value of the time delay of the transmission of the synchronization signal may then be used by the CPU 118 of the 3D glasses 106 to correctly synchronize the clock 118a of the CPU with the dock 102a of the display device 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the time delay of the transmission of the synchronization signal may be a non-zero value if, for example, there was a time delay within the signal transmitter 104 of the display device 102 that affected the time of transmission of the synchronization signal to the signal sensor 120 of the 3D glasses 108. in this manner, the method 200 may permit effective synchronization of the clock 118a of the CPU 118 of the 3D glasses 106 with the clock 102a of the display device 102 in a radio frequency communication protocol such as Bluetooth®. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc., a privately held, not-for-profit trade association headquartered in irkland, Washington.

(0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 and/or method 200 may include, or omit, one or more aspects of one or more of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

[0028] Referring now to Figs. 3a and 3b, an exemplar embodiment of a system 300 for viewing 3D images Is substaniiaiiy Identical to the system 100, except as noted below. In an exemplary embodiment, the system 300 includes the displa device 102 and one or more pairs of 3D glasses 302.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment the 3D glasses 302 are substantially identical in design and operation to the 3D glasses 100 except that the 3D glasses 302 further include a memory 304 that is operably coupled to the CPU 118. In several exemplary embodiments, the memory 304 may, for example, include a non-voiatiie memory device, digital memory device, analog memory device, volatile memory device, combinations of one or more, and/or functional equivalents thereof.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, the memory 304 operably coupled to the CPU 118 of the 3D glasses 300 may include a look up table 304a thai includes identifiers 304aa for various synchronization protocols and the associated operating ru!es 304ab. In this manner, the 3D glasses 300 may use any number of synchronization protocols during operation thereby permiitsng the 3D glasses to be used with any number of display devices 102.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, referring now to Fig. 4, during the operation of the system 300, the system may implement a method 400 of operating in which the 3D viewing glasses 302 may determine if the 3D display device 102 is operating in 402. The 3D viewing glasses 302 may then determine the presence of a synchronization signal from the 3D display device 102 in 404. In an exemplary embodiment, in 404, the 3D glasses 302 may determine the presence or absence of a synchronization signal using the look up table 304a to determine if a recognizable synchronization signal is being transmitted by the display device 102. The 3D viewing glasses 302 may then specifically identity the synchronization signal being transmitted by the display device 102 in 406. In an exemplary embodiment, in 406, the 3D glasses 302 may determine the identity of the synchronization signal transmitted by the display device 102 using the look up table 304a. The 3D viewing glasses 302 may then, in 408, operate in synchronization with the display of images on the display device 102 using the synchronization protocol for the identified synchronization signal. In an exemplary embodiment, in 408, the 3D glasses 302 may operate in synchronization with the display of images on the display device 102 using the synchronization protocol by using the look up table 304a.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 500 of operation In which, in 502, the 3D glasses are placed in a stand-by mode of operation for a predetermined time period, fn an exemplary embodiment, the stand-by mode of operation may be a mode of operation in which the 3D glasses wait for a command signal.

[0033] If the 3D glasses have been in the stand-by mode of operation for a predetermined time period in 502, then the 3D glasses determine if an incoming signal has been received by the 3D glasses in 504. in an exemplary embodiment, in 504, the incoming signal may, for example, be a radio frequency, acoustic and/or infrared signal, or combination thereof, If the 3D glasses do not receive an incoming signal in 504, then, in 506, the 3D glasses determine the power level of the battery 122.

[0034] If the battery power level is determined to be high in 506, then the 3D glasses return to the stand-by mode of operation in 502, Alternatively, if the battery power level is determined to be low in 506, then the 3D glasses are placed into a stand-by mode of operation in which an indication of a low power condition for the battery is provided by the 3D glasses in 508.

[0035] If the 3D glasses have been in the stand-by mode of operation with an indication of a Sow power condition in 50S for a predetermined time period, then, in 510, the 3D glasses determine if an incoming signal has been received by the 3D glasses. In an exemplary embodiment, in 510, the incoming signal may, for example, be a radio frequency, acoustic and/or infrared signal, or combination thereof. Sf the 3D glasses do not receive an incoming signal in 510, then the 3D giasses return to the stand-by mode of operation with an indication of a low power condition in 508.

[0036] If the 3D glasses do receive an incoming signal in 504 or 510, then the 3D glasses implement a warm; up mode of operation in 512. in an exemplary embodiment, in 512, the 3D glasses operate the shutters, 108 and 110, to ensure proper operation. In an exemplary embodiment, in 512, the 3D glasses operate the shutters, 108 and 110 implement the warm u mode of operation in 512 for a predetermined time period, then, in 514, the 3D glasses determine if a command signal has been received that requests a two-dimensional {"2D") mode of operation or a three-dimensional ("3D") mode of operation.

[0037] If the 3D glasses determine that a command signal has been received that requests 3D mode of operation in 51 , then the 3D giasses measure and set the frame rate of the 3D giasses in 516. In an exemplary embodiment, in 516, the 3D glasses measure and set the frame rate of the 3D glasses based at least in part on information received within an incoming signal that may be transmitted to the 3D glasses from a display device such as, for example, a movie screen, a computer display, a television, or other display device.

[0038] After determining the frame rate in 516, the 3D glasses operate the shutters, 108 and 110 as a function of the frame rate. In an exemplary embodiment, 3D glasses operate the shutters, 108 and 110, in 518 using one or more of the methods and teachings of the present disclosure.

[0039] If ½ of a frame has elapsed during the operation of the 3D glasses, in 520, then the 3D glasses determine if a synchronization signal has been received in 522. If the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signai has been received in 522, then the 3D glasses operate the operate the shutters, 108 and 110, in 518 as a function of the frame rate. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has not been received in 522, then the 3D glasses determine if a 2D command signal has been received or if a predetermined time period has elapsed since the receipt of a synchronization signal in 524.

[0040] If the 3D glasses determine that a 2D command signal has not been received and that a predetermined time period has not elapsed since the receipt of a synchronization signai in 524, then the 3D glasses operate the operate the shutters, 08 and 110, in 518 as a function of the frame rate, in this manner, the 3D glasses may continue to operate even if signals cannot be sent to the 3D glasses such as, for example, if the transmitter 104 of the display device 102 malfunctions, is delayed in operation, or is somehow blocked.

[0041] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a 2D command signal has been received or a predetermined time period has elapsed since the receipt of a synchronization signal in 524, or determine thai a 2D command signal has been received in 514, then the 3D glasses are operated in a clear mode of operation in 526. In an exemplary embodiment, in 526, the 3D glasses are operated in a clear mode of operation such that the left and right shutters, 108 and 110, of the 3D glasses are both optically transparent such that the wearer of the glasses sees a 2D image on a display device. [0042] If the 3D glasses are operated in a clear mode of operation for a predetermined time period in 526, then the 3D glasses determine if a synchronization signal has been received in 528. Sf the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has been received in 528, then the 3D glasses measure and set the frame rate of the 3D glasses in 516, Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine thai a synchronization signal has not been received in 528_; then the 3D glasses determine if the 3D glasses have operated in the clear mode of operation for a predetermined time period without having received a 2D command signal in 530.

[0043] If the 3D glasses determine that the 3D glasses have not operated in the dear mode of operation for a predetermined time period without having received a 2D command signal in 530, then the 3D glasses operate in the dear mode of operation in 8226, Alternative Sy, if the 3D glasses determine thai the 3D glasses have operated in the clear mode of operation for a predetermined time period without having received a 2D command signal in 530, then the 3D glasses operate in the stand by mode of operation in 502.

[0044] Referring now to Figs. 6a, 6b and 6c, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 600 of operation in which, in 602, the 3D glasses are in a sleep mode of operation. If a timeout occurs in 604, the 3D glasses wake up and use a default synchronization protocol in 606. in an exemplary embodiment, the default synchronization protocol may be stored in the memory of the 3D glasses. In an exemplary embodiment, the default synchronization protocol may be the synchronization protocol last used by the 3D glasses and may be stored in the memory of the 3D glasses.

[0045] If a synchronization signal is not received by the 3D glasses within a timeout period in 610, then operation of the 3D glasses continues in 602. Alternatively, if a synchronization signal is received by the 3D glasses within a timeout period in 610, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signai matches the default synchronization protocol in 612. [0048] If the received synchronization signal matches the default synchronization protocol in 612, then the 3D giasses increment a CORRECT FLAG1 in 614 and then determine if the CORRECT FLAG1 is greater than a predetermined value in 616. if the 3D giasses determine that the CORRECT FLAG1 is greater than a predetermined value in 616, then the 3D glasses are placed into a normal run mode of operation in 618, Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the CORRECT FLAG1 is not greater than a predetermined value in 616, then the 3D glasses return to operation in 610.

[0047] Alternative !y, if the received synchronization signal does not match the default synchronization protocol in 612, then the received synchronization signal is compared with the possible synchronization protocols stored within a memory of the 3D giasses in 620. If the received synchronization signal does match one of the possible synchronization protocols in 622, then the 3D glasses increment a CORRECT FLAG2 in 624 and then determine if the CORRECT FLAG2 is greaier than a predetermined value in 626. !f the 3D glasses determine that the CORRECT FLAG2 is greater than a predetermined value in 626, then the 3D glasses are placed into a normal run mode of operation in 628. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the CORRECT FLAG2 is not greater than a predetermined value in 626, then the 3D giasses return to operation in 610.

[0048] Alternatively, if the received synchronization signal does not match one of the possible synchronization protocols in 622, then the 3D glasses increment an ERROR FLAG in 630 and then determine if the ERROR FLAG is greaier than a predetermined value in 632, If the ERROR FLAG is greater than a predetermined value in 632, then the 3D glasses return to operation in 602. Alternatively, if the ERROR FLAG is not greater than a predetermined value in 632, then the 3D glasses return to operation in 610.

[0049] Referring now to Figs. 7a and 7b, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 700 of operation in which, in 702, the 3D giasses are in a sleep mode of operation. If a timeout occurs in 704, the 3D glasses wake up and set a COUNT and a PULSE COUNT both equa! to zero in 706 and /08, respectively, and then determine if a synchronization signal pu!se was received within a timeout period in 710,

[0050] If a synchronization signal puise was received within a timeout period in 710, then the 3D giasses wiil increment the PULSE COUNT in 712, Alternatively, if a synchronization signal pu!se was not received within a timeout period in 710, then the 3D glasses wili store the PULSE COUNT corresponding to the COUNT in a memory of the 3D giasses in 714.

[0051] The 3D glasses will then increment the COUNT in 716 and then determine if the COUNT is greater than a predetermined constant value in 718. If the COUNT is not greater than a predetermined constant value in 718, then the 3D giasses will continue operation in 708,

[0052] Alternatively , if the COUNT is greater than a predetermined constant value in 718, then the 3D glasses wili determine if ail of the stored PULSE COUNT values are equai in 720. if the 3D giasses determine that al! of the stored PULSE COUNT values are not equal in 720, then the 3D giasses wili continue operation in 702,

[0053] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that all of the stored PULSE COUNT values are equal in 720, then the 3D glasses will determine if the stored PULSE COUNT values are al! equal to zero in 722. if the 3D giasses determine that the stored PULSE COUNT values are ail equal to zero in 722, then the 3D glasses wiil select the synchronization protocol for use based upon one or more other parameters in 724 and wili then be placed in a RUN MODE in 726.

[0054] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the stored PULSE COUNT vaiues are not ali equal to zero in 722, then the 3D glasses will select the synchronization protocol for use based upon the average stored PULSE COUNT in 728 and wiil then be placed in a RUN MODE in 730.

[0055] Referring now to Fig. 8, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 800 of operation in which, in 802, the 3D glasses are in a CLEAR MODE of operation. In an exemplary embodiment, in the CLEAR MODE in 802, both of the shutters of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 are optically transmissive.

[0056] In 804, the 3D glasses determine if a timeout has occurred. If a time out has occurred in 804, then the 3D glasses are placed in an OFF MODE of operation in 808. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine if a timeout has not occurred in 804, then, in 808, the 3D glasses determine if an error of a synchronization signal received by the 3D glasses is excessive in 808.

[0057] If the error of the synchronization signal received by the 3D glasses is excessive in 808, then the 3D glasses are placed in an OFF MODE of operation in 806. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the error of the synchronization signal received by the 3D glasses is not excessive in 808, then the 3D glasses determine if the synchronization signal received by the 3D glasses is correct in 810.

[0058] If the 3D glasses determine that the synchronization signal received b the 3D glasses is correct in 810, then the 3D glasses are placed in an ON MODE of operation in 812. in an exemplary embodiment in the ON MODE of operation in 812, the 3D glasses may implement one or more of the methods of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Aiternaiively, if the 3D glasses determine that the synchronization signal received by the 3D glasses is not correct in 810, then the 3D glasses are placed in a CLEAR MODE of operation in 802,

[0059] Referring now to Fig. 9, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 900 of operation in which, in 902, the 3D glasses operate in a FLYWHEEL MODE of operation. In an exemplary embodiment, in the FLYWHEEL MODE in 902, the left and right shutters of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 are operated to open and close including the following operating states;

OPERATING STATE LEFT SHUTTER RIGHT SHUTTER OPERATING STATE LEFT SHUTTER RIGHT SHUTTER I

1 OPEN CLOSED

2 CLOSED OPEN I

[0060] in this manner, in the FLYWHEEL MODE in 902_; the left and right shutters of the 3D glasses are alternatel opened and closed by repeating the operational states 1- 2-1-2-1-2-1 -2 ... !n an exemplary embodiment, in the FLYWHEEL MODE in 902, the operation of the left and right shutters of the 3D glasses are controlled in accordance with the following operational parameters:

[0061] in an exemplary embodiment, the LOT refers to the amount of time the left shutter is open within a dispiay frame that includes a left eye image and a right eye image to permit a user of the 3D glasses to view a left eye image, the ROT refers to the amount of time the right shutter is open within a display frame thai includes a left eye image and a right eye image to permit a user of the 3D glasses to view a right eye image, the LCT refers to the amount of time the left shutter is closed within a display frame that includes a left eye image and a right eye image, the RCT refers to the amount of time the right shutter Is closed within a dispiay frame that includes a left eye image and a right eye image, the LOD refers to the amount of elapsed time within a display frame that includes a Seft eye image and a right eye image before the left shutter is opened, the ROD refers to the amount of elapsed time within a display frame that includes a !eft eye image and a right eye image before the right shutter is opened, the LCD refers to the amount of elapsed time within a display frame thai includes a left eye image and a right eye image before the left shutter is closed, the RCD refers to the amount of elapsed time within a display frame that includes a left eye image and a right eye image before the right shutter is closed.

[0062] In 904, the 3D glasses determine if a synchronization signal has been received, if the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has not been received in 904, then the 3D glasses return to the FLYWHEEL MODE in 902. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has been received in 904, then the 3D glasses determine if the synchronization signal has errors in 906.

[0063] If the 3D glasses determine that the synchronization signal has errors in 906, then the 3D glasses will increment a synchronization signal error counter in 908 and then determine, in 910, if the synchronization signal error counter exceeds a predetermined value in 910,

[0064] If the 3D glasses determine that the synchronization signal error counter exceeds a predetermined value in 910, then the 3D glasses will then determine if the 3D glasses are operating in a RUN MODE or a CLEAR MODE of operation in 912. If the 3D glasses determine that the 3D glasses are operating in a RUN MODE of operation in 912, then the 3D glasses will then operate in a CLEAR MODE of operation in 914. In an exemplary embodiment, in the CLEAR MODE in 914, both of the shutters of the 3D glasses are optically transmissive. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the 3D glasses are operating in a CLEAR MODE of operation in 912, then the 3D glasses will then operate in a OFF MODE of operation in 916.

[0065] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the synchronization signal does not have errors in 906, then the 3D glasses will reset the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 906. In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses will reset the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 906 by modifying one or more of the operating parameters of the FLYWHEEL MODE using information contained within the synchronization signals. After resetting the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 906, the 3D glasses will then return to the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 902.

[0066] Referring now to Fig, 10, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 1000 of operation in which, in 1002, the 3D glasses operate in a FLYWHEEL MODE of operation. In an exemplary embodiment, in the FLYWHEEL MODE in 1002, the left and right shutters of the 3D glasses are operated to open and close as described above with regard to the methods 800 and/or 900.

[0067] in 1004, the 3D glasses determine if a synchronization signal has been received, if the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has been received in 1004, then the 3D glasses will reset the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 1006. !n an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses will reset the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 1006 by modifying one or more of the operating parameters of the FLYWHEEL MODE using information contained within the synchronization signals. After resetting the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 1006, the 3D glasses will then return to the FLYWHEEL MODE of operation in 1002,

[0068] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a synchronization signal has not been received in 1004, then the 3D glasses will determine if FLYWHEEL MODE timeout has occurred in 1008. If the 3D glasses will determine that a FLYWHEEL MODE timeout has occurred in 1008, then the 3D glasses will then operate in a CLEAR MODE of operation in 1010. !n an exemplary embodiment, in the CLEAR MODE in 1010, both of the shutters of the 3D glasses are optically transmissive.

[0069] Referring now to Figs. 11a-11s, in an exemplar embodiment, one or more of the 3D glasses 106 and/or 302 of one or more of the systems 100 and/or 300 may implement a method 1100 of operation in which, in 1102, the 3D glasses determine if a received synchronization signal is a default signal DEFAULT! [0070] If the 3D glasses determine thai the received synchronization signai is a default signal DEFAULT1 in 1 102, then the 3D glasses determine if no signal has been received within a predetermined timeout period in 1104 and 1106. in an exemplary embodiment_: once the timeout period in 1 106 has expired, the 3D glasses determine if a pulse has been received in 1108. if the 3D glasses determine thai a pulse has been received in 1108, then the 3D giasses increment a bit count in 1 1 10.

|0071] in an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses then determine if the bit count is greater than two in 1 112. if the 3D glasses then determine that the bit count is not greater than two in 1 12, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined time delay in 1114 and return to operation in 1 108. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the bit count is greater than two in 1 112, then the 3D glasses wait to see if no signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1 1 18.

[0072] if a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1 1 18, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1 1 18 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1 1 18, then the 3D glasses translate the received signai to the corresponding synchronization protocol for the corresponding mode! of TV in 120 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1122.

[0073] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signai Is not the default signai DEFAULT1 in 1 02, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signai is for a first television model TV1 in 1 124.

[0074] if the 3D giasses determine that the received synchronization signal is for a first television model TVi In 1 124, then the 3D glasses determine if no signal has been received within a predetermined timeout period in 1126 and 1 128. In an exemplary embodiment once the timeout period in 128 has expired, the 3D glasses determine if a pulse has been received in 1 130. if the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has been received in 1130, then the 3D giasses increment a bit count in 1 132.

[0075] in an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses then determine if the bit count is greater than two in 1134, If the 3D glasses then determine that the bit count is not greater than two in 1134, then the 3D giasses wait during a predetermined time delay in 6936 and return to operation in 1130. Alternatively, if the 3D giasses determine that the bit count is greater than two in 1134, then the 3D giasses wait to see if no signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1138.

[0076] If a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1138, then the 3D giasses set a synchronization error condition in 1140 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1138, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to the corresponding synchronization protocol for the corresponding model of TV in 1 42 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1 44.

[0077] ASternativeiy, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the first television model TV1 in 124, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signal is for a second television model TV2 in 1146.

[0078] If the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signa! is for a second television model TV2 in 1146, then the 3D giasses determine if no signal has been received within a predetermined timeout period in 1148 and 1150. in an exemplary embodiment, once the timeout period in 1150 has expired, the 3D glasses determine if a pulse has been received in 1152. If the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has been received in 1152, then the 3D glasses increment a bit count in 1154,

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses then determine if the bit count is greater than four in 1156. if the 3D glasses then determine that the bit count is not greater than four in 1156, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined time delay in 1158 and return to operation in 1152. ASternativeiy, if the 3D glasses determine that the bit count is greater than four in 1156, then the 3D giasses wait to see if no signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1 60.

[0080] if a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1160, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1162 and exit. Alternatively, if no signa! is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1160, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to the corresponding synchronization protocol for the corresponding model of TV in 1164 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1166.

[0081] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the second television model TV2 in 1146, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signal is for a third television model TVS in 1168,

[0082] ff the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is for a third television mode! TVS in 1168, then the 3D glasses determine if no signal has been received within a predetermined timeout period in 1170 and 1172. in an exemplary embodiment, once the timeout period in 1172 has expired, the 3D glasses determine if a pulse has been received in 1174, if the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has been received in 1174, then the 3D glasses increment a bit count in 11 6.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D glasses then determine if the bit count is greater than one in 1178. If the 3D glasses then determine that the bit count is not greater than one in 1178, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined time delay in 1180 and return to operation in 1174. Alternatively, if the 3D glasses deteroiine that the bit count is greater than one in 1178, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined timeout period in 1182. The 3D glasses then determine if a signal has been received during a predetermined timeout period in 1184.

[0084] If a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1184, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined timeout period in 1186. The 3D glasses then determine if no signal has been received during a predetermined timeout period in 1188. if a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1188, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1190 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1188, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to a corresponding command to close the left shutter of the 3D glasses in 1192 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1194. [0085] Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1 184, then the 3D glasses determine if a signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1196. If a signal is received by the 3D glasses during the predetermined timeout period in 1196, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined timeout period in 1198, The 3D glasses then determine if no signal has been received during a predetermined timeout period in 1200. if a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1188, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1202 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1200, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to a corresponding command to open the left shutter of the 3D glasses in 1204 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1206,

[0088] Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1 196, then the 3D glasses determine if a signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1208. If a signal is received by the 3D glasses during the predetermined timeout period in 1208, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined timeout period in 1210. The 3D glasses then determine if no signal has been received during a predetermined timeout period in 1212. If a signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1212, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1214 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1212, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to a corresponding command to close the right shutter of the 3D glasses in 1216 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1218,

[0087] Alternatively, if no signal Is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1208, then the 3D glasses wait during a predetermined timeout period in 1222. The 3D glasses then determine if a signal is received during a predetermined timeout period in 1224. If a signal is received b the 3D glasses during the predetermined timeout period in 1224, then the 3D glasses set a synchronization error condition in 1226 and exit. Alternatively, if no signal is received during the predetermined timeout period in 1224, then the 3D glasses translate the received signal to a corresponding command to open the right shutter of the 3D glasses in 1228 and then enter a RUN MODE in 1230. [0088] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the third television mode! TV3 in 1168, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signal is for a fourth television model TV4 in 1232.

[0089] If the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is for a fourth television mode! TV4 in 1232, then the 3D glasses determine if a signal has been received in 1234. If the 3D glasses determine that a signal has been received in 1234, then the 3D glasses determine if a pulse has been received in 1236. If the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has not been received In 1238, then the 3D glasses determine if a predetermined timeout has expired in 1238. if the 3D glasses determine that the predetermined timeout has not expired in 238, then operation continues in 1238.

[0090] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has been received in 1236, then the 3D glasses measure the height and width of the pulse in 1240. The 3D glasses then determine if the pulse is ok in 1242. if the 3D glasses determine that the pulse is not ok in 1242, then the 3D glasses increment a bad pulse count in 1244 and then determine if the bad puise count equals a predetermined target value in 1246. If the 3D glasses determine that the bad pulse count is not equal to the predetermined target value in 1246, then operation continues in 1236.

[0091] Alternatively, If the 3D glasses determine that the pulse is ok in 1242, then the 3D glasses increment a good pulse count in 1248 and then determine if the good pulse count equals a predetermined target value in 1250. If th 3D glasses determine that the good pulse count is not equal to the predetermined target value in 1250, then operation continues in 1236.

[0092] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the good pulse count is equal to the predetermined target value in 1250, then the 3D glasses determine if more pulses are received within a predetermined timeout period in 1252. If the 3D glasses determine that more pulses were not received within a predetermined timeout period in 1252, then the 3D glasses operate the left and right shutters as a function of the pulses received in 1254, [0093] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signa! is not for the fourth television model TV4 in 1232, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signa! is for a fifth television mode! TVS in 1256.

[0094] If the 3D g!asses determine that the received synchronization signal is for a fifth television mode! TV4 in 1256, then the 3D glasses determine if a signa! has been received in 1258. !f the 3D glasses determine that a signal has been received in 1258, then the 3D glasses determine if a pu!se has been received in 1260. !f the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has not been received In 1260, then the 3D glasses determine if a predetermined timeout has expired in 1262. if the 3D glasses determine that the predetermined timeout has not expired in 262, then operation continues in 1260.

[0095] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that a pulse has been received in 1260, then the 3D glasses measure the height and width of the pulse in 1264. The 3D glasses then determine if the pulse is ok in 1266. if the 3D glasses determine that the pulse is not ok in 1266, then the 3D glasses increment a bad pulse count in 1268 and then determine if the bad pulse count equals a predetermined target value in 1270. !f the 3D g!asses determine that the bad pulse count is not equal to the predetermined target value in 1270, then operation continues in 1260.

[0096] Alternatively, If the 3D glasses determine that the pu!se is ok in 1266, then the 3D glasses increment a good pulse count in 1272 and then determine if the good pulse count equals a predetermined target value in 1274, If the 3D glasses determine that the good pulse count is not equal to the predetermined target value in 1274, then operation continues in 1260.

[0097] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the good pulse count is equal to the predetermined target value in 1274, then the 3D glasses determine if more pulses are received within a predetermined timeout period in 1276. If the 3D glasses determine that more pulses were not received within a predetermined timeout period in 1276, then the 3D glasses operate the left and right shutters as a function of the pulses received in 1278, [0098] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the fifth television rrsodei TVS in 1256, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signal is for a sixth television model TV6 in 1280.

[0099] If the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the sixth television mode! TVS in 1280, then the 3D glasses operate the left and right shutters using an associated protocol in 1282.

[00100] Alternatively, if the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is not for the sixth television model TVS in 280, then the 3D glasses determine if the received synchronization signal is for a default synchronization protoco! DEFAULT2 in 1284.

[00101] If the 3D glasses determine that the received synchronization signal is for a default synchronization protocol DEFAULT2 in 1284, then the 3D glasses operate the left and right shutters using an associated protocol in 1286.

[00102] Referring to Fig. 12, an exemplary embodiment of a system 1300 for viewing 3D images is substantially identical to the system 100, except as noted below. In an exemplary embodiment, the system 1300 includes display device(s) (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302a etc.), having an internal clock (e.g., clock a 1303a, clock n 1303n, etc.), that is operably coupled to signal transmitters) {e.g., signal transmitter a 1304a, signal transmitter n 1304n, etc.).

[00103] In an exemplary embodiment, the display device {e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.) may, for example, be a television, movie screen, liquid crystal display, computer monitor, or other display device, adapted to display, for example, left and right images intended for viewing by the left and right eyes, respectively, of a user of the system 1300. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of display device(s) ma b included in the system 1300; however, at any particular time, one display device (e.g., dispiay device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.) is operatively connected to the universal retransmitter, where the current display device being used may be modified or changed based on the needs of the user. For example, the user may replace a display device using an infrared protocol with a new dispiay device that uses a Bluetooth© protoco!. tn this example, the universal retransmitter 1308 may automatically detect the new dispiay device and begin accepting data via the Bluetooth® protocol for retransmission. Sn an exemplary embodiment, each signal transmitter (e.g. , signal transmitter a 1304a, signai transmitter n 1304η, etc) is operably coupled to a displa device (e.g. , display device a 1302a, dispiay device n 1302n, etc.) for transmitting signais to a signal sensor (e.g. , signal sensor a 1310a, signal sensor b 1310b, etc.) of a universal retransmitter 1308.

[00104] In an exemplary embodiment, the signal transmitter of the display device (e.g. , display device a 1302a, display device n 1302η, etc.) transmits signals (depicted as dashed Sines such as signal a 1306a, signal n 1306n, etc.)) to a corresponding signal sensor of the universal retransmitter 1308. Each signai sensor (e.g. , signal sensor a 1310a, signal sensor b 1310b, etc.) is configured to support one of various protocols for transmitting synchronization characteristics for viewing 3D images. Examples of protocols include, but are not limited to, an infrared protocol, a digital light processing ("DLP") protocol a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, a Zigbee€> protocol, etc. The universal retransmitter 1308 is configured to convert data received via a signal of the display device (e.g. , display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n. etc.) from a protocol of the display device to a universal protocol of the universal retransmitter 1308. Zigbee® is a registered trademark of the Zigbee Alliance, an association of companies headquartered in San Ramon, CA.

[00105] As will be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art, a DLP projector operates by dividing a projector's 120 Hz output between the left and right eye, 60 Hz each, with synchronization data coming through during ultra-brief dark times between active data transmission. In this manner, images for the left and right eyes of the viewer are presented and interleaved with synchronization signals {i.e., the DLP protocol) for directing the 3D glasses 106 to open the left or right viewing shutters.

[00106] In an exemplary embodiment, the universal retransmitter 1308 may be configured to identify the protocol of the signal (e.g. , signal a 1306a, signal n 130δα etc.) based on the signal sensor (e.g., signal sensor a 310a, signai sensor b 1310b, etc ) used to receive the signai. After identifying the protocol the universal retransmitter 1308 may be configured to determine synchronization characteristics of the signal. The synchronization characteristics of the signai include, for exampie, synchronization pulse(s), a type of the display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.), an opening and dosing sequence of shutters, an operating frequency of images displayed on the display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302a etc.), a time of transmission of the signal, and a time delay of the transmission of the signal.

[00107] In an exemplary embodiment, the universal retransmitter 1308 is configured to convert data received via the signal (e.g. , signal a 1306a, signai n 1306n, etc.) from the protocol of the signal to a universal protocol of the universal retransmitter 1308. For example, the universal retransmitter 7108 may use a conversion module 1309 to convert the data received via! the signal to the universal protocol. Once the data is converted, the universal transmitter 1311 of the universal retransmitter 1308 is configured to transmit the converted data (i.e., universal signai 1312) to a glasses signai sensor 120 of the 3D glasses 106 for controlling the operation of the 3D glasses. In an exemplary embodiment, the universal transmitter 1311 is adapted to transmit signals such as, but not limited to, electromagnetic, infrared, acoustic, and/or radio frequency signals that may or may not be transmitted through an insulated conductor and/or through free space. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the universal transmitter 131 1 may transmit one or more signals at the same time, which may or may not include the same information.

(00108] Referring to Fig. 13, in an exemplary embodiment, the system 1300 implements a method 1400 of operation in which the system 1300 synchronizes the operation of a display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc) and 3D glasses 106 using a universal retransmitter 1308. In an exemplary embodiment, the display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.) of the system 1300 may initiate a signal for transmitting synchronization information to the universal retransmitter 1308 as images are displayed on the display device.

[00109] in 1402, the universal retransmitter 1308 receives a signal from an emitter { .e._f signal transmitter) of the display device, in an exemplary embodiment, the signai may include various synchronization characteristics, as discussed above with respect to the exemplary embodiments, for synchronizing the operation of the 3D glasses 106 and the display device. Further, the signal may be transmitted using a protocol such as, but not limited to, an infrared protocol a radio frequency protocol a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

[001 10] In 1404, the protocol of the signal is identified by the universal retransmitter 1308. Specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, the universal retransmitter 1308 may identify the protocol based on the signal sensor used to receive the signal As discussed above with respect to FIG. 12, the universal retransmitter 1308 may include multiple signal sensors for receiving various protocols of different display devices. In this case, the universal retransmitter 1308 may maintain a database of protocols and associated display devices, where the database may be used to determine synchronization characteristics of the signal based on the identified protocol. The database may be updated manually by a user or technician and/or automatically updated via a network connection of the universal retransmitter 1308.

[001 1 1] In 1406, the synchronization characteristics of the signal are determined. For example, the synchronization characteristics may be determined based on the protoco! identified in 1404. Further, the received data of the signal may also identify the display device generating the signal, allowing additional or more refined synchronization characteristics to be determined. The synchronization characteristics may specify parameters such as, but not limited to, synchronization puSse(s), a type of the display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.), an opening and closing sequence of shutters, an operating frequency of images displayed on the display device (e.g., display device a 1302a, display device n 1302n, etc.), a time of transmission of the signal, and a time delay of the transmission of the signai. [00112] In 1408, data received from the signal at the universal retransmitter 1308 Is converted to a universal protocol using the synchronization characteristics. For example, the synchronization pulses of the display device may be converted to universal synchronization pulses of the universal retransmitter 1308, allowing the universal retransmitter 1308 to initiate synchronization with compatible 3D glasses 106, Because the universal protocol is independent of the various protocols of the display devices, the universal retransmitter 1308 allows a set of 3D glasses 106 supporting only the universal protocol to be synchronized with a variety of display devices supporting different protocols.

[00113] In 1410, the converted data of 1408 is transmitted to the 3D glasses 108 using the universal protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the converted data includes the synchronization characteristics discussed above, allowing the operation of the 3D glasses 106 and the display device to be synchronized. By converting the protocol of the display device to the universal protocol, th universal retransmitter 1308 abstracts the protocol of the display device from the 3D glasses 106 (i.e., the 3D glasses are able to synchronize their operation with the display device without any knowledge of the protocol of the display device), in this case, the display device may be changed by the user without affecting the operation of the universal retransmitter 1308 and the 3D glasses 106. For example, if the user replaces a display device using an infrared protocol with a new device using a Bluetooth® protocol, the universal retransmitter 1308 automatically detects the Bluetooth® signal from the new display device and facilitates the synchronization of the new display device and the 3D glasses 106.

[00114] In an exemplary embodiment, the system 1300 and/or method 1400 may include, or omit, one or more aspects of one or more of the exemplary embodiments.

[00115] A computer readable program product stored on a tangible storage media may be used to facilitate any of the preceding embodiments. For example, embodiments of the invention may be stored on a computer readable medium such as an optical disk (e.g., compact disc, digital versatile disc, etc.), a diskette, a tape, a file, a flash memory card, or any other computer readable storage device, in this example, the execution of the computer readable program product may cause a processor to perform the method discussed above with respect to FIG. 13.

[001 16] A method of transmitting signals for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses has been described that includes receiving a signal from an emitter of a disp!ay device, identifying a protocol of the signal from the emitter, converting data of the signal from the protocol to a universal protocol, and retransmitting the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, identifying the protocol of the signal from the emitter includes receiving the signal at one of a number of signal sensors and identifying the protocol based on the one of the number of signal sensors. In an exemplary embodiment each of the number of signal sensors is associated with one of a number of protocols. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of protocols is one of a group selected from an infrared protocol, a radio frequency protoco!, a Bluetooth® protocol, and Zigbee® protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, converting the data of the signal from the protocol to the universal protocol includes determining synchronization characteristics of the signal based on the data, where the synchronization characteristics includes one or more synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the signal, and second information representative of a time delay of the transmission of the signal, and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, where the converted data includes the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information. Sn an exemplary embodiment, the 3D shutter glasses use the time deiay of the transmission of the signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device, in an exemplary embodiment, the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

[001 17] A universal retransmitter that includes a number of signal sensors each supporting one of a number of dispiay protocols, where a signal sensor of the number of signal sensors is configured to receive a display signal transmitted using a display protocol of the number of display protocols; a conversion module configured to identify the display protocol of the display signal and convert data of the display signal from the display protocol to a universal protocol; and a universal transmitter configured to retransmit the data to three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses using the universal protocol In an exemplary embodiment, the conversion module is configured to identify the protoco! of the dispiay signal by receiving the dispiay signal at one of a number of signal sensors and identifying the protocol based on the one of the number of signal sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of signal sensors is associated with one of a numbe of protocols, !n an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of protocols is one of a group selected from an infrared protocol, a radio frequency protoco!, a Bluetooth® protoco!, and Zigbee® protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the conversion module is configured to convert the data of the display signa! from the protocol to the universal protocol by determining synchronization characteristics of the displa signal based on the data, where the synchronization characteristics includes one or more synchronization pu!ses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the display signal, and second information representative of a time de!ay of the transmission of the dispiay signal, and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, where the converted data includes the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information. In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the display signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device. In an exemplary embodiment, the universal protoco! is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protoco!, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

[00118] A system for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses that includes a display device including a signa! transmitter configured to transmit a display signa! using a display protocol; a universal retransmitter that includes a number of signal sensors each supporting one of a number of display protocols, where a signa! sensor of the number of signal sensors is configured to receive the display signal transmitted using the display protocol, where the dispiay protocol is one of the number of dispiay protocols, a conversion module configured to identify the dispiay protocol of the display signa! and convert data of the display signa! from the display protocol to a universal protoco!, and a universal transmitter configured to retransmit the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocoi; and the 3D shutter glasses configured to be synchronized with images displayed on the display device, in an exemp!ary embodiment, the conversion moduie is configured to identify the protocol of the display signal by receiving the display signal at one of a number of signal sensors and identifying the protocol based on the one of the number of signal sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of signal sensors is associated with one of a number of protocols, in an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of protocols is one of a group selected from an infrared protocoi, a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and Zigbee® protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the conversion module is configured to convert the data of the display signal from the protocol to the universal protocol by determining synchronization characteristics of the display signal based on the data, where the synchronization characteristics includes one or more synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the display signal, and second information representative of a time delay of the transmission of the display signal, and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, where the converted data includes the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information. In an exemplary embodiment, the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the display signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device, tn an exemplary embodiment, the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

[00119] A computer readable program product stored on a tangible storage media for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses, the program product when executed causing a computer processor to receive a signal from an emitter of a display device, identify a protocol of the signal from the emitter, convert data of the signal from the protocol to a universal protocol, and retransmit the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the program product causes the computer processor to identify the protocol of the signal from the emitter by receiving the signal at one of a number of signal sensors and identifying the protocol based on the one of the number of signal sensors, in an exempiary embodiment, each of the number of signal sensors is associated with one of a number of protocols, in an exemplary embodiment, each of the number of protocols is one of a group selected from an infrared protocol a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and Zlgbee® protocol, in an exemplary embodiment, the program product causes the computer processor to convert the data of the signal from the protocol to the universal protocol by determining synchronization characteristics of the signal based on the data, where the synchronization characteristics includes one or more synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the signal, and second information representative of a time delay of the transmission of the signal, and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, where the converted data includes the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information, in an exemplary embodiment, the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device. In an exemplary embodiment, the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol,

[00120] it is understood that variations may be made in the above without departing from the scope of the invention. While specific embodiments have been shown and described, modifications can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or teaching of this invention. The embodiments as described are exemplary only and are not limiting. Many variations and modifications are possible and are within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, one or more elements of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted, combined with, or substituted for, in whole or in part, one or more elements of one or more of the other exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited to the embodiments described, but is only limited by the claims that follow, the scope of which shall include ail equivalents of the subject matter of the ciaims.

Claims

1. A method of transmitting signals for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses, comprising:

receiving a signal from an emitter of a display device;

identifying a protocol of the signal from the emitter;

converting data of the signal from the protocol to a universal protocol; and retransmitting the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein identifying the protocol of the signai from the emitter com rises:

receiving the signai at one of a plurality of signal sensors; and

identifying the protocol based on the one of the plurality of signal sensors,

3. The method of claim 2, where each of the plurality of signal sensors is associated with one of a plurality of protocols.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of protocols is one selected from a group consisting of an infrared protocol, a digital light processing protocoi, a radio frequency protocol a Bluetooth® protocol, and Zigbee® protocol.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein converting the data of the signal from the protocol to the universal protocoi comprises:

determining synchronization characteristics of the signal based on the data, wherein the synchronization characteristics comprises one or more synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the signal and second information representative of a time delay of the transmission of the signal and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, wherein the converted data comprises the one or more synchronizaiion pulses, the first information, and the second information.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device,

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

8. A universa! retransmitter comprising:

a plurality of signal sensors each supporting one of a plurality of display protocols, wherein a signal sensor of the plurality of signal sensors is configured to receive a display signal transmitted using a display protocol of the plurality of display protocols;

a conversion module configured to:

identify the display protocol of the display signai; and

convert data of the display signai from the display protocol to a universal protocol; and

a universal transmitter configured to retransmit the data to three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses using the universal protocol.

9. The universal retransmitter of claim 8, wherein the conversion module is configured to identify the protocol of the display signal by:

receiving the display signal at one of a plurality of signal sensors; and

identifying the protocol based on the one of the plurality of signal sensors.

10. The universal retransmitter of claim 9, where each of the plurality of signal sensors is associated with one of a plurality of protocols.

11. The universal retransmitter of claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of protocols is one selected from a group consisting of an infrared protocol a digital light processing protocol, a radio frequency protocol a Bluetooth® protocol, and Zigbee® protocol.

12. The universal retransmitter of claim 8, wherein the conversion moduie is configured to convert the data of the display signal from the protocol to the universal protocol by:

determining synchronization characteristics of the display signal based on the data, wherein the synchronization characteristics comprises one or more

synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the display signal, and second information representative of a time delay of the

transmission of the display signal; and

converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, wherein the converted data comprises the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information.

13. The universal retransmitter of claim 12, wherein the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the display signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device.

14. The universal retransmitter of claim 8, wherein the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

15. A system for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses, comprising: a display device comprising a signal transmitter configured to transmit a display signal using a display protocol;

a universal retransmitter comprising:

a plurality of signal sensors each supporting one of a plurality of display protocols, wherein a signal sensor of the plurality of signal sensors is configured to receive the display signal transmitted using the display protocol, wherein the display protocol is one of the plurality of display protocols;

a conversion module configured to:

identify the displa protocol of the display signal; and convert data of the display signal from the display protocol to a universal protocol; and

a universal transmitter configured to retransmit the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol; and

the 3D shutter glasses configured to be synchronized with images displayed on the display device.

16. The system of c!aim 15, wherein the conversion module is configured to identify the protocol of the display signal by:

receiving the display signal at one of a plurality of signal sensors; and

identifying the protocol based on the one of the plurality of signal sensors.

17. The system of claim 16, where each of the plurality of signal sensors is associated with one of a plurality of protocols.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein each of the plurality of protocols is one selected from a group consisting of an infrared protocol, a digital light processing protocol, a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and Ztgbee® protocol.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein the conversion module is configured to convert the data of the display signal from the protocol to the universal protocol by:

transmission of the display signal; and

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the display signal to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device.

21. The system of claim 15, wherein the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocoi, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee® protocol.

22. A computer readable program product stored on a tangible storage media for operating three dimensional (3D) shutter glasses, the program product when executed causing a computer processor to;

receive a signal from an emitter of a display device;

identify a protocol of the signal from the emitter;

convert data of the signal from th protocol to a universal protocol; and retransmit the data to the 3D shutter glasses using the universal protocol.

23. The program product of claim 22, wherein the program product causes the computer processor to identify the protocol of the signai from the emitter by:

receiving the signal at one of a plurality of signal sensors; and

identifying the protocol based on the one of the plurality of signai sensors.

24. The program product of ciaim 23, where each of the plurality of signal sensors is associated with one of a plurality of protocols.

25. The program product of claim 24, wherein each of the plurality of protocols is one selected from a group consisting of an infrared protocol, a digital Sight processing protocol, a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth© protocol, and Zigbee® protocol.

26. The program product of claim 22, wherein the program product causes the computer processor to convert the data of the signal from the protocol to the universal protocol by; determining synchronization characteristics of the signal based on the data, wherein the synchronization characteristics comprises one or more synchronization pulses, first information representative of a time of transmission of the signai, and second information representative of a time delay of the transmission of the signai; and converting the data using the universal protocol to obtain converted data, wherein the converted data comprises the one or more synchronization pulses, the first information, and the second information.

27. The program product of claim 26, wherein the 3D shutter glasses use the time delay of the transmission of the signai to resynchronize the operation of the 3D glasses with the operation of the display device,

28. The program product of claim 22, wherein the universal protocol is a wireless protocol selected from a group consisting of a radio frequency protocol, a Bluetooth® protocol, and a Zigbee © protocol