Dynamic Laser Sign Generation for Vehicle Operations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current luminous signs used in vehicle operations are static and limited to fixed positions, making it impossible to create signs in dynamic environments like in-flight refuelling or during isolated vehicle maneuvers without diverting the driver's attention.

Innovation Solution

A device that generates high-power, high-frequency laser light using a subsystem for orienting and focusing the light on specific points in space, combined with visual and analytical systems to determine target locations and communicate sign generation orders, allowing for dynamic creation of luminous signs in front of vehicles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static luminous signs are used in fixed positions, then the signs provide stable and reliable information, but they cannot adapt to dynamic environments or moving vehicles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to dynamic environmentsVSAvoidstability of sign position
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static luminous signs to a dynamic laser-based system that can change position and orientation in real-time. The laser device mounted on the vehicle moves with the vehicle and can dynamically adjust the position of luminous signs in space according to the vehicle's movement and operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the spatial coordinates (x, y, z) where laser beams create luminous points. The system can dynamically change the position, intensity, and distribution of luminous signs in three-dimensional space, allowing adaptation to different operational scenarios while maintaining reliable visual information for drivers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If static luminous panels are used, then the signs can notify of different actions or content, but they remain limited to relatively precise spatial locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of sign contentVSAvoidspatial coverage area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by creating luminous signs in three-dimensional space rather than limiting them to two-dimensional panels. The laser system can project luminous points at various heights, distances, and lateral positions, expanding the spatial coverage area from a fixed panel location to a volumetric space around the vehicle, thereby increasing both flexibility and spatial coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If high-power lasers are used to create luminous signs in space, then dynamic and flexible signs can be created, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic sign creation capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of laser control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the laser control system into independent modules: laser beam generation, galvanometric mirror orientation control, and focal point coordinate calculation. Each module operates semi-independently, allowing the complex function of creating dynamic luminous signs to be achieved through coordinated simple actions of separate components, thereby managing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If luminous signs are created directly in front of the vehicle, then the driver can see them within their field of vision, but the system requires precise positioning and control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver visibility of signsVSAvoidprecision of sign positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with an optical-mathematical approach. Instead of physically moving heavy sign structures to precise locations, the system uses laser beams directed by galvanometric mirrors, whose position is controlled through electrical signals and mathematical calculations of coordinates. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while achieving precise positioning required for driver visibility.

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

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

Enables the creation of flexible, dynamic luminous signs that can be generated at specific points in space, enhancing driver awareness and safety during complex maneuvers without requiring the driver to divert their attention.

Implementation Method 1

Means for generating a high-power, high frequency laser light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

The laser light is concentrated on defined points in space... creating luminous points at distinct locations in the space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight ionization: Ionisation

Implementation Method 3

A set of lenses for concentrating the laser light on defined points in space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight focusing: Focusing

Implementation Method 4

A set of lenses for concentrating the laser light on defined points in space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight refraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 5

Two mirrors in order to concentrate the laser light on two distinct points

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10669041B2Device for creating luminous signs in the space surrounding one or more vehicles
Publication Date: 2020.06.02 DEFENSYA ING INT SL
  • US10669041B2 patent drawing
  • US10669041B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention details a group of focussed means to create points of light of different sizes and colours, that together form figures whose function is to create a sign in front of the eyes of a driver or operator, to provide them with certain information from a remote point. The points of light are created by the ionization of the air in different points in the space where it is desirable to create the sign in question.