Interactive Projection System Using Sunlight for Outdoor Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interactive media systems are limited to indoor use due to incompatibility with daylight, restricting outdoor applications and requiring wearable technology, which obstructs engagement with the physical environment.
Innovation Solution
An interactive projection system that uses sunlight and/or artificial light to project images on surfaces, allowing players to interact without screens or controllers by detecting body and shadow movements, with a self-powered system capable of operating in both natural and artificial light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional video projection systems are used, then indoor interactive media experience is achieved, but outdoor usability is compromised due to sunlight interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts sunlight from a harmful interfering factor into a beneficial light source. The reflective device redirects sunlight to project illuminated indicia onto the projection surface, transforming the problem of sunlight interference into a solution where sunlight powers the display system itself, enabling outdoor usability without additional artificial lighting
Solution Approach 2:
The projection system is designed to work with both natural sunlight and artificial light sources. The detection system can operate with either light source, and the reflective device can redirect whichever light source is available, making the system universally applicable across different lighting conditions and environments
2Ease of operation
If wearable technology is used for outdoor interactive games, then player interaction is enabled, but engagement with the physical environment is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the interaction capability from wearable devices and transfers it to the projection system itself. The detection system uses sensors and imaging to detect player movements and shadows directly, eliminating the need for wearable technology while maintaining full interaction capabilities. Players engage with the physical environment using their natural bodies without any obstructive devices
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective device acts as an intermediary between the light source and the projection surface, creating illuminated indicia that serve as the interaction target. This intermediary element enables player interaction through shadow and body movement detection without requiring players to wear any technology, bridging the gap between physical movement and digital interaction
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar-powered operation is implemented, then energy sustainability is improved, but power generation consistency varies with lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to varying lighting conditions by detecting the available light source (sunlight or artificial) and adjusting operation accordingly. The control system monitors power generation from solar panels and modifies system operation to match available power, enabling reliable function across different times of day and weather conditions while maintaining energy sustainability
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors power generation from solar panels and uses this feedback to adjust system operation. When power generation is sufficient, the system operates at full capability; when power is limited, the system automatically scales back operations to match available power, ensuring reliable and sustainable operation without external power sources
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 immersive, location-based interactive experiences in outdoor environments, leveraging natural sunlight for high-intensity displays and self-sustainability, enhancing engagement and accessibility without the need for wearable technology.
Implementation Method 1
A reflective device reflects light from a light source (natural and/or artificial) upon the projection surface as the illuminated indicia
Implementation Method 2
A detection system is provided that is operable to detect both stationary and movable features. A control system is operable to determine the position of the stationary and movable features from sensors such as, but not limited to, imaging sensors
Data Source
AI summary
An interactive projection system for outputting illuminated indicia upon a projection surface. A detection system is operable to detect both stationary and movable features. A control system is operable to determine the position of the stationary and movable features. A reflective device reflects light from a light source (natural and/or artificial) upon the projection surface as the illuminated indicia. A drive system moves the reflective device, thereby moving the illuminated indicia across the projection surface in response to control system thereby simulating the stationary feature on the projection surface as a physical boundary to the illuminated indicia and simulating the movable feature contacting the illuminated indicia.