3D Shooting Device Using Laser Centering for Vehicle Positioning

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D shooting devices for motor vehicles are inefficient in minimizing vehicle downtime and optimizing the capture of comprehensive views for virtual reality applications, particularly when dealing with collections of relatively homogeneous vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles, which require precise positioning and lighting for high-quality photographs.

Innovation Solution

A device with a rotating plate and multiple cameras, assisted by a line laser for centering and length measuring diodes for precise positioning, along with an automaton that controls camera fields and automates the shooting process, including interior views, to efficiently create a library of 3D images compatible with virtual reality software.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If manual positioning of the vehicle on the rotating plate is used, then the positioning process is simple, but the vehicle downtime is excessive and positioning precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle downtimeVSAvoidpositioning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated system using optical measurement means (laser diodes) and electronic processing. The measurement means automatically detect vehicle position and provide feedback to positioning means, eliminating manual intervention and significantly reducing positioning time while maintaining simplicity through automated control.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The vehicle positioning system performs self-measurement and self-adjustment. The optical measurement means automatically detect the vehicle's position on the rotating plate, and the positioning means automatically adjust the vehicle position based on measured data, without requiring external manual intervention, thereby reducing downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple cameras are used to capture comprehensive vehicle views, then the quality of 3D images is improved, but the device complexity and setup time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcamera system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rotating plate serves multiple functions: it positions the vehicle for capture by multiple cameras, provides reference markings for positioning, and enables sequential positioning for different camera angles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate positioning mechanisms for each camera, simplifying the overall system while maintaining high image quality.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses dynamic positioning where the rotating plate can be rotated to different angular positions to accommodate multiple cameras. The plate's rotational capability allows a single positioning mechanism to serve multiple camera positions, reducing system complexity while enabling comprehensive vehicle capture from multiple angles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If precise positioning measurement means are added to the device, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle positioning precisionVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with optical measurement means using laser diodes. The optical system provides precise measurement of vehicle position and dimensions without requiring complex mechanical linkages or contact-based measurement devices, achieving high precision with simpler technology.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces reference markings on the rotating plate as an intermediary element. These markings serve as a common reference for both the optical measurement means and the positioning system, simplifying the measurement process by providing a standardized reference framework that reduces the complexity of direct measurement between multiple components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution significantly reduces vehicle downtime and improves the quality and efficiency of capturing 3D images, allowing for rapid creation of a library of homogeneous photographs while ensuring precise positioning and optimal lighting conditions, enhancing working conditions and compatibility with various vehicle types.

Implementation Method 1

The line laser 9 is positioned facing the direction of entry of the vehicle into the installation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

The distance measuring laser 11 comprises a transmitter laser, producing an advantageously red beam and a receiver receiving the beam emitted after reflection on an object whose distance is to be measured. Conventionally in this type of device, the time shift between the transmitted signal and the received signal makes it possible to access the distance from the reflector.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of Flight: Time of Flight

Implementation Method 3

position measuring diodes 12, 13, flush with the ground

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP2952960B13D shooting device and method
Publication Date: 2016.09.07 UNITE DE PRODION DIMA
  • EP2952960B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2952960B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The device includes means for measuring the position 9, 11, 12, 13 of the object, allowing the positioning of its center at the approximate point of convergence of the rotation axis (6) of the platform (5) and the shooting axes of the cameras (1, 3). The process comprises the following steps: - Placement of the subject on the platform - Creation of a computer file - File identification - Masking of license plates - Taking a generic photograph - "Eye bee" shots - Recording for/and organized archiving