Multi-Color Surface Marking System Using Pixel Data Maps
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Solution Overview
Problem
The labor-intensive and time-consuming process of applying complex surface markings, such as logos and designs, on roads, parking lots, and sports fields using pre-manufactured templates is inefficient, as templates cannot be reused until the paint dries, requiring significant time and resources for repetitive markings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a manifold with valves and spray nozzles controlled by a controller, which uses a pixel data map to accurately apply marking fluid in a desired pattern across a surface, allowing for automatic and efficient creation of surface markings without the need for template reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pre-manufactured templates are used to apply complex surface markings, then the markings can be applied with consistent quality, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming due to the inability to reuse templates until paint dries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pixel data maps as digital copies of the desired surface markings. Instead of physical templates that must be reused, the system creates a digital representation of the marking design and uses this copy to control multiple spray nozzles, allowing rapid reproduction of identical markings without physical template reuse constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical template system with a digital control system. The pixel data map serves as a digital blueprint that controls electronic valves and spray nozzles, substituting the manual placement and reuse of physical templates with automated digital guidance, thereby eliminating the drying time constraint on template reuse
2Productivity
If templates are reused after paint drying to create multiple markings, then productivity can be improved, but significant time is lost waiting for paint to dry between uses
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates digital copies of the marking design in pixel data map format. These digital copies can be instantly reproduced and sent to multiple spray nozzles simultaneously, eliminating the need to wait for paint to dry before reusing the template design for additional markings
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous operation by allowing the pixel data map to control spray nozzles without interruption. While one marking is being applied, the digital design is already prepared and queued for subsequent markings, eliminating idle drying time and maintaining continuous productive action
3Ease of manufacture
If manual painting or spray painting through templates is used, then complex markings can be applied, but the process requires significant labor input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual painting operations with an automated spray nozzle system controlled by pixel data maps. The digital design automatically guides multiple nozzles to apply complex markings without manual intervention, substituting labor-intensive hand painting or template spraying with automated mechanical application
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the complex marking task into multiple independent spray nozzles, each controlled by its own set of valves. This segmentation allows parallel application of different portions of the marking, reducing overall labor requirements and enabling simultaneous multi-point application rather than sequential manual painting
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 and precise application of surface markings, reducing labor and time required for repetitive tasks by allowing continuous operation and precise control over the painting process, improving efficiency and productivity.
Implementation Method 1
The spray nozzle may be in fluid communication with the mixing passage such that, when one of the valves is moved to an opened position, marking fluid from the valve cavity associated with the valve flows through the mixing passage and into the spray nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a system for applying painted surface markings to roads, parking lots, fields and/or any other suitable surfaces is disclosed. The system may include a plurality of valves and associated spray nozzles mounted onto and/or within a manifold, with each valve being individually controllable in order to regulate the flow of paint being dispensed from the spray nozzles. For instance, a controller may be coupled to each valve in order to control the opening and closing of such valve, thereby controlling the flow of paint supplied to the corresponding spray nozzle. In addition, information regarding the surface marking to be applied (the design, dimensions, orientation, geographical location, etc.) may be stored within and/or received by the controller. The controller may then control each valve such that paint is applied to the surface to be marked via the spray nozzles in a manner that creates the desired surface marking.