Absolute accuracy in automated alignment systems – a 3D solution to a 3D problem
ABSTRACT Over the past several years, many techniques have been applied to the task of automating alignment of multi-channel immersive visual display systems. Such methods work to achieve the appearance of a single image source, presented in the proper perspective to the viewer. End results of these techniques can be graded using various criteria from as simple as; ʻDoes the resultant image appear seamless and in the correct perspectiveʼ to; ʻIs the result consistent to a high degree of accuracy and repeatabilityʼ. In many instances, the former is reasonable for the systems objectives. In other cases, there can be a critical need for accuracy and repeatability within the limits of the display system components. Cases which require precise correlation between optical elements such as helmet mounted display (HMD) or head up display (HUD) symbology, for example, can greatly benefit from an image that is accurately aligned and applied in 3D space with the same result every time. Other total system benefits can also be realized, such as reduced processing requirements for image generation systems as the scene overlap requirements are consistent, allowing for minimization of field of view parameters. This paper will discuss the goals, attributes, and advantages of automated alignment systems that are designed to provide highly accurate, repeatable results when utilized.

VITA Mr. Rick Pray it the President – RPA Electronic Solutions, Inc. He received his BSEE degree from Pennsylvania State University and MSEE at Syracuse University. He has over 30 years industry experience in real-time system design, circuit design, and project / corporate management.
Major projects include:
· Automated Alignment Systems for Immersive Displays
· Predictive Algorithm Development for HMD Head Motion
· Portable, Man wearable Wireless HD Video Transmission
· Low Noise Scientific Camera / Controller Design
· Simulation Display System Design
· Analog & Digital Audio Processing hardware
· Control Systems Analysis
· Parallel Processing systems & circuits
· Multi Sensor Image Fusion and Display Systems
· Real Time Graphics systems / circuit design
· RADAR Systems Simulation
· Video Format Scan Conversion design

In addition to the general projects listed above, Rick was a lead design engineer for Link Flight Simulation in their Visual Systems group for over 14 years. In that capacity he was involved in Image Generator Hardware design and debug, Display Systems development, and Sensor Systems Simulation (FLIR and RADAR). He also worked for CID Technologies, Liverpool NY as a project engineer responsible for development of a Slow Scan – Low Light Scientific Imaging Camera. In 1995, Rick co-founded RPA with Barry Williams, VP of Engineering. RPA has focused on providing real-time signal processing solutions since its inception.