Computer Vision Bridle Calibration for Live Rigging Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current rigging systems in the entertainment industry require expensive and time-consuming calibration processes, especially in temporary environments where locally-hired staff may not be familiar with the setup, necessitating a simpler and more efficient method to determine the initial positions of rigging elements for live performances.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of computer vision cameras to capture images of the rigging system, process this information into base position data, and transmit it to a control system for precise calibration and setup of the rigging elements before each performance, replacing traditional position sensors and length measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional calibration equipment and methods are used to determine base positions of rigging systems, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebase position measurement precisionVSAvoidcalibration equipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical calibration equipment (such as laser scanners, total stations, and specialized measurement devices) with a computer vision-based optical system. The CV camera captures images of the rigging system, and software algorithms automatically determine base positions of winches and other components, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement tools while maintaining measurement precision.

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

2Measurement precision

If traditional calibration methods are used to determine rigging system positions, then measurement accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebase position measurement precisionVSAvoidcalibration setup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically capturing images of the rigging system and using computer vision algorithms to determine base positions without requiring manual measurement or complex setup procedures. The CV camera and processing software work together to autonomously complete the calibration task, significantly reducing the time required compared to traditional methods that require manual operation of specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If simple and inexpensive calibration methods are used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration process simplicityVSAvoidbase position measurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a simple computer vision-based approach using standard CV cameras and image processing software. This substitution maintains measurement precision through sophisticated algorithms while dramatically simplifying the operation, allowing locally-hired staff to perform calibration without extensive training or specialized knowledge.

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

4Ease of operation

If multiple staff members are deployed for calibration, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of substance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration operation capabilityVSAvoidlabor cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration system is designed to be easily operable by a single person or even automated with minimal human intervention. The CV camera automatically captures images and the software processes them to determine base positions, reducing the need for multiple staff members and thereby reducing labor costs while maintaining operational capability.

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 approach reduces labor costs and setup time, enabling rapid and accurate calibration of complex staging systems, even in international touring scenarios where language barriers may exist, by using low-cost cameras to determine the initial positions of winches and other rigging components.

Implementation Method 1

capturing images of the rigging system during the movement using at least one computer vision camera to determine a base position of the movement mechanisms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectComputer vision: Photography

Data Source

PatentUS20240201636A1CV auto-calibrated bridle method and system
Publication Date: 2024.06.20 TAIT TOWERS MANUFACTURING LLC
  • US20240201636A1 patent drawing
  • US20240201636A1 patent drawing
  • US20240201636A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods use a computer vision camera to determine where bridles and other rigging items are positioned and provide that information to a control system. This information is used to place the elements of the rigging system before each live performance.