Laser Projector Field Marking with Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for marking playing fields, such as using foam spray, are time-consuming and prone to manual errors, disrupting game flow and introducing tolerances in distance measurements.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing laser projectors with an analysis device to determine distortion functions for accurate geometric projections, allowing for rapid and precise marking of playing fields by calculating target markings that account for field distortions, and optionally using tracking devices for automated control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If foam spray is used for marking, then the marking can be applied, but the process is time-consuming and disrupts game flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical foam spray application system with an optical projection system using laser projectors. This substitution eliminates the manual spraying process and enables rapid digital projection of markings, directly resolving the time loss issue while maintaining marking precision through calculated geometric projections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations of the distortion function and target markings before the actual marking is needed. By pre-computing the corrected geometric projections based on the projector's position and orientation, the system eliminates on-field adjustment time and enables immediate accurate marking when required.
2Ease of operation
If manual determination of minimum distance is used, then the process is simple, but tolerances in distance measurements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual distance measurement with an automated optical measurement and calculation system. The control device computes the target marking position based on the distortion function and desired minimum distance, eliminating manual measurement errors while the system remains easy to operate through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the distortion function as a feedback mechanism that automatically adjusts the projected marking position based on the projector's actual position and orientation. This closed-loop approach ensures accurate distance measurements without manual intervention, as the calculation automatically compensates for any positioning variations.
3Productivity
If laser projectors are used for rapid marking, then marking speed improves, but distortion of geometric shapes occurs due to projection angle
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates the distortion function based on the projector's position and orientation relative to the playing field. This preliminary computation allows the rapid projection of accurately corrected geometric shapes without requiring real-time adjustment, maintaining both speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the marking coordinates using the distortion function, which adjusts the geometric parameters based on the projection angle and position. This parameter transformation enables the projector to rapidly output corrected shapes that appear accurate on the field despite the angled projection.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple marking devices are used for coverage, then the field can be fully covered, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the playing field into multiple zones, each covered by a dedicated laser projector positioned at appropriate locations. This segmentation allows comprehensive field coverage while keeping each projector's control independent and relatively simple, managing overall system complexity through modular decomposition.
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 rapid, accurate, and low-tolerance marking of playing fields, minimizing disruptions and ensuring precise distance measurements, while preventing irradiation outside the field to protect spectators.
Implementation Method 1
The system utilizes laser projectors with an analysis device to determine distortion functions for accurate geometric projections
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for variable marking of a playing field (1), comprising at least two marking devices (2) designed as laser projectors, an analysis device designed to analyse a calibration pattern (3) projected onto the playing field (1) by means of a marking device (2), as well as designed to determine a distortion function from the calibration pattern (3), a control device designed to determine the position of a marking pattern (4) on the playing field (1), and a transformation device designed to apply the distortion function to the marking pattern (4) in order to obtain a target marking (5). The invention further relates to a method for variable marking of a playing field (1).