Seamless Cockpit Simulation via Optical Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation systems for heavy equipment, such as aircraft, use multiple LCD monitors that result in a segmented and discontinuous representation of cockpit panels, lack ergonomic and tactile experiences, and are difficult to maintain due to the rapid obsolescence of LCD monitors.
Innovation Solution
A projected simulation system that uses one or more projectors to display a seamless and continuous graphical representation of a cockpit on a large, clear pane, with tactile features that simulate control enclosures, and wireless tactile aspects powered by optical power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple LCD monitors are used to display cockpit panels, then the display coverage area is increased, but the visual continuity and ergonomic experience deteriorate due to segmented displays with black seams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate LCD monitor displays into a single unified projection display system. By using a projector to display images on a large clear pane, the system combines what would otherwise be multiple segmented displays into one continuous visual field, eliminating the black seams and discontinuities inherent in multi-monitor configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a large clear pane as an intermediary medium between the projector and the user. This pane serves as a seamless display surface that receives the projected image, providing a continuous visual field without the segmentation issues of direct LCD monitor arrays. The clear pane acts as a mediator that transforms the projected light into a cohesive, seam-free display.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple LCD monitors are used to simulate cockpit panels, then the display area is increased, but the tactile experience deteriorates due to lack of ergonomic feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates curved tactile control elements that mimic the ergonomic contours of actual aircraft cockpit controls. The curved geometry provides natural hand placement and tactile feedback, enhancing the realism and ease of operation compared to flat LCD touchscreen interfaces. This curvature principle applies to control knobs, switches, and other interactive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different tactile qualities to different regions of the control interface. Physical control elements with distinct textures, temperatures, and resistance characteristics are provided in specific locations to match the original aircraft cockpit layout. This localized variation in tactile properties enhances operational realism and user comfort.
3Reliability
If LCD monitors are used in simulation systems, then the display functionality is achieved, but the maintenance cost and complexity increase due to rapid obsolescence and failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical LCD monitor system with an optical projection system. Instead of using multiple electronic display panels that are prone to failure and obsolescence, the system uses a projector to create images on a clear pane. This substitution eliminates the need for complex electronic display hardware, reducing maintenance requirements and extending system longevity.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection system provides universal display functionality that can accommodate different cockpit layouts and configurations without requiring specialized hardware. The same projector and clear pane combination can display various simulation scenarios, making the system adaptable and reducing the need for specialized replacement components.
4Reliability
If traditional simulation systems are located at remote dedicated facilities, then the simulation quality is maintained, but the accessibility and training flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the aircraft cockpit simulation that can be deployed in various locations. By using a projector and clear pane instead of complex dedicated simulation hardware, the system can be replicated and distributed to multiple sites, including home environments. This copying approach maintains essential simulation quality while enabling widespread accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic training system that can be deployed and relocated flexibly. The projection-based simulation can be set up in different locations as needed, allowing training programs to adapt to varying schedules and locations. This dynamic deployment capability enables both high-quality simulation and flexible accessibility.
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
The system provides an improved simulation and training experience for heavy equipment operators by offering a seamless and ergonomic interface, reducing maintenance costs, and enabling training in remote or home-use contexts.
Implementation Method 1
A projected simulation system that uses one or more projectors to display a seamless and continuous graphical representation of a cockpit on a large, clear pane
Implementation Method 2
wireless tactile aspects powered by optical power transfer
Data Source
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AI summary
A heavy equipment cockpit training apparatus, device, system, and method is disclosed. The disclosed features include at least one substantially clear, substantially seamless pane to at least partially present an approximation of physical portions of the cockpit, at least one projector capable of backprojecting a simulation of the cockpit onto the at least one substantially seamless pane, at least one tactile aspect, discrete from the at least one seamless pane, interactively provided in association with the simulation, and at least one processor having communicatively associated therewith non-transitory computing code for at least partially providing the simulation and the interaction with the at least one tactile aspect.