Laser Point Projection for Accurate Midpoint Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement devices struggle to accurately determine and indicate points of interest, such as midpoints, between two features with unclear or obstructed endpoints, particularly in construction and space planning applications.
Innovation Solution
A point determination and projection device that uses remote distance measurement devices and a digital protractor to calculate and project the location of points of interest, such as midpoints, on surfaces with uneven edges, by measuring distances and angles between two points and projecting light or images onto these points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional straight-line measurement devices are used to measure distances between features, then the measurement process becomes difficult and time-consuming, but the device complexity remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement devices (tape measures, rulers) with an optical-laser-based system. The laser distance meter uses laser beams to measure distances optically, eliminating the need for physical contact and manual measurement operations. This substitution enables automated distance capture and point calculation, significantly improving ease of operation and reducing measurement time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically calculates intermediate points (midpoints, one-third points, etc.) based on the measured distances between endpoints. The processor autonomously performs the mathematical calculations and determines the coordinates of intermediate points without requiring manual computation or re-measurement by the user. This self-service capability eliminates time-consuming manual operations and enables rapid determination of multiple points of interest.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement and calculation methods are used to determine intermediate points, then the process becomes complex and error-prone, but the device complexity remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated system: laser distance measurement, angle measurement (digital protractor), automated calculation of intermediate points, and visual projection display. By combining these previously separate tools and operations into one device, the system achieves high measurement precision for point determination while managing device complexity through functional integration. The processor automatically synthesizes distance and angle data to calculate precise intermediate point locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light projection device as an intermediary to visually indicate the calculated intermediate points on the target surface. This projection intermediary translates the abstract calculated coordinates into a visible, easily identifiable visual marker, enhancing measurement precision and ease of verification. The projection serves as a mediator between the calculation system and the physical measurement target, making precise point location intuitive and error-free.
3Ease of operation
If multiple measurement devices are used to determine intermediate points, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser distance measurement, angle measurement, calculation processing, and light projection functions into a single portable device. This merging eliminates the need to carry and coordinate multiple separate measurement tools (laser distance meter, digital protractor, calculator, projection device). The integrated system maintains operational convenience by providing all necessary functions in one unit while improving portability by reducing the total weight and complexity of multiple separate devices.
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 precise determination and indication of points of interest, even on surfaces with abnormal edges, without requiring manual movement, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in measurement tasks.
Implementation Method 1
laser distance measurement devices, such as laser distance meters
Implementation Method 2
projects a light or other image toward the location of such midpoint to indicate such location to a user
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a point determination and projection device configured to automatically detect the location of a point of interest, such as a midpoint or other intermediate point on a surface, and to project light or another image onto such point of interest to indicate its location to a user. In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, the device includes remote distance measurement devices, such as laser distance measurement devices, that measure the distance to, for example, corners of a wall surface, and a digital protractor that measures the angle between the two remote distance measurement devices. Based on those measurements, a processor calculates the location of a predesignated point of interest, such as a midpoint or other intermediate point between the two wall corners, and projects a light or other image toward the location of such midpoint or other intermediate point to indicate such location to a user.