Automated Memorial Design System with 3D Projection Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manual and paper-based systems for memorial order processing are inefficient, prone to human error, and costly, with delays and increased expenses due to the need for multiple data re-entries and lack of graphical image processing at the customer site.
Innovation Solution
A memorial design and collaboration system (MDCS) that allows customers to configure and preview memorial designs online, with a host computer routing the design for three-dimensional projection and manufacturing, enabling direct order processing and reducing reliance on traditional mail or fax systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual paper-based order processing is used, then customers can place orders traditionally, but the process becomes expensive and time-consuming with multiple data re-entries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of paper-based order processing with an automated computer-based system. The host computer automatically receives customer orders, retrieves graphical images from storage, processes the orders, and generates confirmations without requiring manual data re-entry, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with manual processing while maintaining ease of operation.
2Productivity
If manual data entry is required, then orders can be processed, but human error increases and delays the order
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates manual data entry by implementing an automated computer-based system that directly receives customer orders and retrieves corresponding graphical images from storage. This substitution of manual mechanical entry with automated electronic processing eliminates human error, thereby improving both productivity and reliability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses stored graphical images (copies) of memorial designs that are automatically retrieved and associated with customer orders. This copying approach eliminates the need for manual re-creation or re-entry of design data, ensuring data accuracy while improving processing efficiency.
3Device complexity
If graphical images are not processed at customer site, then manufacturing can be simplified, but additional processing steps are required at manufacturer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a computer-based system that automatically retrieves stored graphical images and processes them alongside customer orders. This automation of image processing at the manufacturer's system eliminates the need for manual graphical work, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining ease of manufacture through automated integration.
4Reliability
If multiple systems require data entry, then comprehensive processing is achieved, but the process becomes expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate processing functions into a single integrated computer-based system. The host computer simultaneously handles order reception, graphical image retrieval, order processing, and confirmation generation, eliminating the need for multiple separate systems and the associated costs while maintaining comprehensive and reliable processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for manufacturing a memorial. The method providing a blank pattern in a memorial design and collaboration system having a specified shape and size and building a memorial preview thereon, then sending the memorial preview to a host computer. The host computer routes the memorial preview as a stored file to a manufacturer for projecting, onto a three-dimensional solid in the shape of said blank pattern, an image of said memorial preview. The method further includes creating a pattern by placing objects in the form of letters, emblems or numbers on the three-dimensional solid in connection with the projection, and creating a mold in connection with the pattern, and filling said mold and baking the filled mold.