Laser Rangefinder Animated Mode Visualization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser rangefinder control methods lack language-independent and intuitive ways to visualize measurement modes, making it difficult for users to understand and select the appropriate measurement functions regardless of language.

Innovation Solution

A method for controlling a laser rangefinder that includes acquiring an actuation of a setting element, providing an animated measurement mode visualization, and displaying this visualization on a display unit, allowing users to intuitively select measurement modes in a language-independent manner.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If text-based measurement mode labels are used, then language-specific information is provided, but usability becomes language-dependent and less intuitive

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveusabilityVSAvoidlanguage independence

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces animated visualizations as an intermediary between the measurement modes and the user. These animations depict the actual measurement process (e.g., laser beam paths, measurement sequences) rather than using text labels, thereby mediating the communication in a language-independent manner while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional text-based information delivery system with an animated visualization system. This substitution transforms static text labels into dynamic visual representations that show measurement processes, eliminating language barriers while preserving intuitive understandability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of information

If static measurement mode labels are used, then information is conveyed, but intuitive understanding of measurement functions is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinformation deliveryVSAvoidintuitive understanding

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms static measurement mode labels into dynamic animated visualizations. The animations show the actual measurement processes in motion (e.g., laser beams moving, measurement sequences progressing), which conveys more information about the measurement functions while simultaneously improving intuitive understanding through visual demonstration rather than static text

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs visual characteristics including color changes in the animated visualizations to convey different measurement modes and their functions. The color variations help distinguish between different measurement types and provide intuitive visual cues about the measurement processes, enhancing both information delivery and user comprehension

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250110223A1Method for Controlling a Laser Rangefinder

Publication Date: 2025.04.03 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH

AI summary

A method for controlling a laser rangefinder having a control unit for carrying out the method is disclosed. The method includes (i) acquiring an actuation of a setting element of the laser rangefinder, (ii) providing an animated measurement mode visualization, and (iii) displaying the animated measurement mode visualization on a display unit of the laser rangefinder.