CGI Fault Clearance Instructions for Imaging Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging device fault clearance instructions, such as text messages and live-action videos, are inadequate for complex faults like paper jams, as they fail to convey necessary movement information and are costly and inefficient to produce and update.
Innovation Solution
The use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) instructions, which include three-dimensional models and virtual viewpoints, to guide users through fault clearance actions on an imaging device, providing clear and specific steps without the need for extensive production or editing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If live-action videos are used to provide fault clearance instructions, then the instructions can effectively assist operators in interacting with the imaging device, but the production cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses computer-generated imagery (CGI) to create virtual copies of the imaging device and its components, replacing the need for physical live-action video production. These digital models can be rendered from multiple angles and perspectives without requiring actual filming, actors, or physical prototypes, thereby maintaining instructional effectiveness while dramatically reducing production complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical production process of live-action videos (filming, editing, post-production) with a computational rendering system. By using software to generate and animate 3D models of the device, the system eliminates the need for physical production activities while achieving the same instructional purpose through digital visualization.
2Device complexity
If still images are used to depict fault clearance steps, then the instructions can be provided in a simple format, but they fail to convey movement information required for complex faults
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static still images into dynamic computer-generated animations that depict movement and transformation of device components during fault clearance procedures. The CGI system can show parts moving, opening, closing, or changing state, providing the necessary motion information while maintaining the simplicity and clarity of structured instructional formatting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds temporal and motion dimensions to the instructional content by rendering sequences of CGI frames that illustrate movement. This transforms 2D still images into animated sequences that convey dynamic information about component movement, lever rotation, and mechanism operation without abandoning the structured presentation format.
3Reliability
If live-action videos are used for fault clearance instructions, then realistic depictions can be achieved, but significant editing is required to add graphical overlays and enhance clarity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates idealized digital copies of the imaging device components in a virtual environment, allowing for perfect visualization without the limitations of physical filming. These CGI models can be rendered with any desired level of detail, lighting, and clarity without requiring post-production editing to enhance realism, as the realism is achieved during the rendering process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates all necessary visual elements, graphical overlays, and instructional annotations directly into the CGI rendering process before final output. Rather than capturing raw footage and adding overlays in post-production, the system pre-computes and integrates all visual information during the rendering phase, eliminating the need for subsequent editing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing instructions to a user of an imaging device includes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of the imaging device in a 3D computer generated environment. At least one computer generated imagery (CGI) instruction sequence is then rendered from the 3D model. The CGI instruction sequence depicts at least one action being performed on the imaging device and is rendered from a virtual viewpoint corresponding to a viewpoint of a user physically performing the at least one action. The rendered CGI instructions are stored in memory of the imaging device and selectively displayed on a user interface display screen of the imaging device.