3D Text Projection onto Non-Planar Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current projection systems, particularly laser-based systems, are inefficient and costly for projecting three-dimensional text and images onto complex three-dimensional objects, suffering from distortion, flickering, and high operational costs, which hinders their use in manufacturing and assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A computerized optical system that uses optical projectors connected with computers to project calibrated three-dimensional text, images, and symbols onto complex surfaces without distortion, allowing for efficient and accurate assembly guidance by projecting instructions directly onto the objects in a step-by-step manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If laser-based projection systems are used to project three-dimensional text and images onto complex three-dimensional objects, then projection capability is achieved, but distortion and flickering occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces laser-based mechanical projection systems with a camera-based optical system. The camera captures images of the three-dimensional object and associated text/images, then projects them onto the object's surface using a projector. This substitution eliminates the distortion and flickering problems inherent in laser-based systems while maintaining the ability to project three-dimensional content onto complex surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy of the target scene by capturing images with a camera and re-projecting them. The camera records the actual three-dimensional object and associated text/images, then the projector displays this captured image onto the object surface. This copying approach ensures accurate representation without the distortion and flickering issues of direct laser projection.
2Ease of manufacture
If laser-based projection systems are used, then projection function is provided, but operational costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive laser-based projection systems with more affordable camera and projector components. Instead of using costly laser equipment, the system employs standard imaging devices that are less expensive to acquire and operate. This substitution maintains the core projection functionality while significantly reducing operational costs and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system substitutes expensive laser-based mechanical projection with affordable camera-based optical projection. By using standard cameras and projectors instead of specialized laser equipment, the system achieves the same projection function at lower operational cost and energy consumption.
3Productivity
If traditional projection systems are used, then basic projection is achieved, but assembly time and labor are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing images of the three-dimensional object and associated text/images before the assembly process begins. These pre-captured images are then rapidly projected onto the object surface, providing immediate visual guidance to assembly workers. This eliminates the need for workers to search through paper manuals or wait for projections to be generated, significantly reducing assembly time and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional paper-based or slow projection systems with a rapid camera-capture and projector-display system. This substitution enables immediate projection of assembly instructions directly onto the workpiece, allowing workers to quickly access information without leaving their position, thereby reducing assembly time and increasing productivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If laser-based systems are used, then projection capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex laser-based projection systems with simpler camera and projector components. The camera-based system captures images and the projector displays them, eliminating the need for complex laser generation and modulation mechanisms. This substitution maintains projection versatility while significantly reducing system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses image copying rather than direct laser generation. By capturing images with a camera and re-projecting them, the system achieves versatile projection capability without the complexity of generating laser beams directly. This copying approach simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining adaptability to project various three-dimensional content.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method whereby the spatial relationship and orientations of one or more three-dimensional objects being illuminated by an optical projector, and the optical projector itself, can be very accurately defined both quickly and easily. The present invention also provides a novel computerized optical projection system whereby three-dimensional data when viewed by the human eye projected onto three-dimensional objects is not deformed as a result of the non-planar projection surface. In one embodiment, the invention provides computerized optical assembly or manufacturing guidance systems, and related methods, that provide step-by-step assembly or manufacturing instructions for instructing technicians how to assemble or manufacture three-dimensional objects or systems. The assembly instructions are in the form of calibrated three-dimensional text, images and/or symbols, and are projected by one or a plurality of optical projectors that are in operable communication with one or a plurality of computers onto the three-dimensional objects or systems, or component parts or skins thereof.