3D Object Alignment in 2D Environments via Ray Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional interior design tools face challenges in precisely aligning three-dimensional (3D) objects within a two-dimensional (2D) environment, making it time-consuming and imprecise to position objects relative to each other.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the reception of 2D environment images, calculation of object positions, and use of mobile device sensors to capture perspective and scale, allowing for accurate placement of 3D objects based on calculated positions and angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual positioning methods are used to place 3D objects in 2D environment, then ease of operation is maintained, but alignment precision and time efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated image processing system. The system captures images of the 2D environment, detects existing objects and their positions, calculates appropriate placement locations, and automatically positions 3D objects based on calculated coordinates and scale factors, eliminating the need for manual dragging and dropping operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the 2D environment, identifying existing objects, calculating optimal placement positions, and positioning new 3D objects without requiring continuous manual intervention. The automated detection and calculation processes enable the system to service itself in the design process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional 2D environment tools are used, then device complexity remains low, but manufacturing precision of object alignment deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject positioning precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system that acts as a mediator between the user and the 2D environment. This intermediary captures images, detects objects, calculates positions, and facilitates precise placement, thereby improving positioning precision without requiring the user to directly manipulate complex alignment operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces simple manual manipulation with an automated computational approach. By using image processing algorithms and automated calculation of positions and scale factors, the system achieves high positioning precision while the user only needs to provide basic inputs such as image capture and object selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If manual alignment is performed, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity and alignment accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign speedVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the 2D environment, identifying existing objects and their positions, and pre-calculating optimal placement locations before the user needs to place new objects. This preliminary processing enables rapid and accurate positioning without requiring complex manual alignment operations during the design process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces time-consuming manual alignment operations with automated image processing and calculation systems. The automated detection and calculation processes significantly improve productivity by reducing the time required for positioning, while the user interface remains simple and intuitive for basic operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11869157B2Method for providing scale to align 3D objects in 2D environment
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 WEST TEXAS TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS LLC
  • US11869157B2 patent drawing
  • US11869157B2 patent drawing
  • US11869157B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Example systems and methods for virtual visualization of a three-dimensional (3D) model of an object in a two-dimensional (2D) environment. The method may include projecting a ray from a user device to a ground plane and determining an angle at which the projected ray touches the ground plane. The method further helps determine a level for the ground plane for positioning the 3D model of the object in the 2D environment.