BIM Projector Layout on Construction Ceilings

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for laying out construction points on building ceilings during construction projects are time-consuming, error-prone, and require significant effort, as they often rely on manual measurement and marking, which can lead to inaccuracies and increased costs.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a projector mounted on a moveable support, such as a scissor lift, which projects layout information onto the ceiling based on Building Information Modeling (BIM) data, using distance measuring systems like laser distance measuring devices or video cameras to determine the projector's position and orientation, ensuring precise placement of connectors, anchors, and holes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual measurement and marking methods are used to locate construction points, then the process is simple to perform, but the time required and effort needed increase significantly while precision decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of construction point locationVSAvoidtime required for layout process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, chalk lines, etc.) with an automated optical measurement system consisting of a projector, distance measuring device, and processor that automatically calculates and marks construction point locations based on BIM data, eliminating manual measurement operations

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service automation where the projector automatically determines its own position using the distance measuring device, calculates construction point locations using the processor, and projects marker images without requiring manual intervention or teams of workers to perform measurements and markings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If teams of workers perform manual measurement and marking, then the task can be completed, but the cost and effort increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of construction point placementVSAvoidcomplexity of layout system
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector serves multiple functions: it acts as both the measurement reference device and the marking device, while the distance measuring device and processor work together to perform both positioning and calculation functions, reducing the need for multiple specialized tools and workers

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a processor as an intermediary that receives BIM data, processes it along with distance measurement data, and generates marker image data for projection, serving as a bridge between the measurement system and the marking system to coordinate their operations automatically

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If automated laser total station devices are used, then measurement precision improves, but the system complexity and difficulty of operation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of distance and position measurementVSAvoidease of using layout device
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projector automatically determines its own position and orientation using the distance measuring device and processor, eliminating the need for operators to manually set up and calibrate complex measurement equipment or perform complex calculations, making the system as easy to operate as simply positioning the projector and activating it

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 system significantly reduces the time and effort required for layout, enhances precision, and minimizes errors, allowing workers to accurately locate construction points with reduced manual measurement, thereby improving productivity and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

A distance measuring system for determining a distance from the projector to the surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

The projector projects an image on the surface above the moveable support

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Data Source

PatentEP2972085B1Method and apparatus for projection of BIM information
Publication Date: 2018.04.25 TRIMBLE INC
  • EP2972085B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2972085B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2972085B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A system for projecting an image, including layout information, on a surface in a building under construction has a projector mounted on a moveable support for supporting a worker at a work position in the building. The projector projects an image on a surface above the moveable support in response to an image signal defining the image to be projected. The image indicates the location of connectors, anchors, and holes to be affixed to, or cut through, the surface. A system determines the two dimensional position of the projector in the building, and a distance measuring system for determines the distance from the projector to said surface. A processor, responsive to a memory having stored building plan images, provides an image signal to the projector adjusted for the two dimensional location of the projector and for the distance from the projector to the surface.