3D Scene Object Switching via Layered Lineups

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D visualization software lacks an efficient mechanism for managing and switching between different configurations of 3D models, requiring multiple scene constructions and manual handling of design alternatives, which is time-consuming and tedious.

Innovation Solution

A system that allows users to create and manage 'lineups' of alternatives within a graphical user interface (GUI), enabling easy switching between different designs, materials, and positions of 3D scene objects, using thumbnail image controls and visibility indicators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple 3D scenes are constructed to display different configurations, then design alternatives can be viewed, but the process becomes time-consuming and tedious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to view different configurationsVSAvoidtime to construct and switch scenes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the 3D scene into multiple layers, where each layer can independently display different configurations or alternatives of the same object. This allows users to view multiple design options simultaneously within a single scene without constructing separate scenes for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A single 3D scene is made multi-functional by enabling it to display multiple configuration alternatives through layered objects. The scene can simultaneously present different wheel designs, materials, or positions of the same automobile model, eliminating the need to create separate scenes for each alternative.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple scenes are created to show all arrangements, then all alternatives are available, but the number of scenes grows quickly and management becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of alternativesVSAvoidnumber of scenes to manage
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of creating multiple complete scenes, the system segments each scene into layered components. Each layer represents a different configuration alternative, allowing comprehensive presentation of all arrangements within a single scene while simplifying management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple configuration alternatives that would traditionally require separate scenes are merged into a single scene through the layering mechanism. Different wheel designs, materials, and positions are combined in one scene, reducing the total number of scenes from many to one.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If layers are used to control visibility, then groups of objects can be turned on and off, but there is no mechanism for mutually excluding alternatives or managing independent switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility controlVSAvoidindependent switching of alternatives
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The layering system applies local quality control to each layer, allowing independent visibility management of individual configuration alternatives. Each layer can be independently activated or deactivated, enabling precise control over which specific alternative is displayed while maintaining the ability to switch between any combinations of alternatives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9349219B23D scene object switching system
Publication Date: 2016.05.24 AUTODESK INC
  • US9349219B2 patent drawing
  • US9349219B2 patent drawing
  • US9349219B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system that allows a user to create a lineup of alternatives as controls for a part of a 3D scene by selecting scene contents and designating a lineup alternative control to contain or receive the contents. Once the alternatives are created, the lineups are provided in a graphical user interface (GUI) that displays each alternative as a compressed image of the scene containing the corresponding alternative. The user can click between the alternatives by selecting a desired button so that only the alternative selected in that lineup is shown in the scene. The user can create multiple lineups, each for a different part or overlapping parts of the scene, for changing the materials in a scene, and/or for positioning objects in a scene.