Hitch-Mounted Projector Screen for Terrain Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projector screens are not portable and adaptable for outdoor use on varying terrain, limiting large-scale digital media viewing for larger audiences.
Innovation Solution
A portable projector screen system supported by a vehicle's hitch receiver and adjustable stands, allowing for flexible setup on any vehicle, including ground or rooftop attachments, with a collapsible frame and adjustable components for optimal viewing angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large viewing screen is used for outdoor digital media viewing, then the viewing area is improved, but the portability and adaptability to varying terrain deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The screen system is divided into separate components: a hitch-mounted support structure that attaches to the vehicle, and a screen that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the screen to be large for viewing while the support structure remains portable and adaptable to different terrains through the vehicle's hitch system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from ground-based screen support to vehicle-based support, adding the dimension of mobile platform attachment. The hitch receiver mounting system allows the screen to be positioned in three-dimensional space above the ground, enabling adaptability to uneven terrain while maintaining a large viewing area.
2Area of stationary object
If a large viewing screen is used for outdoor digital media viewing, then the viewing area is improved, but the portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is extracted from the screen itself and transferred to a separate hitch-mounted structure. This allows the screen to be lightweight and portable while the support burden is carried by the vehicle's hitch system, enabling large viewing area without proportionally increasing the weight that must be manually handled.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch receiver mounting system serves multiple functions: it supports the screen structure, provides adjustable positioning, and leverages the vehicle's existing hitch infrastructure. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve large viewing area while maintaining portability through a single universal mounting interface.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional projector screens are used, then the viewing area is improved, but the ease of operation and setup on varying terrain deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch-mounted support structure is pre-assembled and attached to the vehicle before the screen is installed. This preliminary action simplifies the setup process, as the support framework is already in place to receive and support the screen, making deployment on varying terrain straightforward and efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic positioning and adaptation to different terrain conditions. The hitch arm and screen mounting mechanisms can be adjusted in real-time during setup, enabling easy operation across varying terrains while maintaining a large viewing area.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for the display of images on a screen is described. The device includes a frame assembly configured to hold a screen. The frame assembly includes a hitch for attachment to a receiver hitch of a vehicle. The screen can be adjusted to face either a forward or rearward direction. The device further includes a stand. The stand may be configured to rest on the vehicle for projection onto the screen or rest on the ground. The stand supports a displaying device and is configured to adjust the elevation of the displaying device to affect the displayed image.