Modular Tunnel Projectors for Immersive Sim Racing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional simulated environments for racing, such as go-kart tracks, are complex and costly, requiring numerous cameras and position-determining equipment, and are limited by visibility and applicability only in dark environments, failing to provide an immersive experience.
Innovation Solution
A modular tunnel system is positioned above the road surface, featuring tunnel segments with integrated projectors and position detection systems, allowing seamless projection of virtual elements along the track while compensating for slopes and angles, and using awnings to manage light intensity, enabling immersive experiences in various conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional simulated environments use numerous cameras and position-determining equipment, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical camera systems and position-determining equipment with a projection-based optical system. Projectors display virtual elements directly on the road surface, and driver position is determined through interaction with these projections rather than through multiple cameras and sensors, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses projection to create virtual copies of racing elements (checkers, flags, track markings) on the road surface. These virtual elements serve as both the display medium and the reference for position detection, eliminating the need for separate physical cameras and position-determining equipment while maintaining accurate position measurement
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems use projection in dark environments only, then immersion is improved, but adaptability to different lighting conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of projection parameters based on ambient lighting conditions. The system adjusts projection intensity, contrast, and timing in real-time to maintain optimal visibility and driver interaction across varying lighting environments, transforming the system from static dark-environment-only operation to dynamic multi-condition adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key projection parameters (intensity, duration, timing) based on environmental lighting conditions. In brighter conditions, projections are intensified and timed to maximize contrast; in darker conditions, standard projection parameters are used, enabling the system to maintain immersion and functionality across diverse lighting environments
3Illumination intensity
If projectors are mounted close to the road surface, then projection visibility is improved, but the risk of damage from vehicles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions projectors in the vertical dimension above the road surface rather than at ground level. This vertical placement maintains effective projection visibility while creating protective distance from vehicles, solving the contradiction between visibility and protection by utilizing three-dimensional spatial arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the tunnel structure as an intermediary between the projectors and the road surface. The tunnel provides physical protection for the projectors while maintaining their projection capability, acting as a mediator that preserves both projector safety and projection effectiveness
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
The solution reduces complexity and cost by using a modular tunnel system with integrated projectors and position detection, enhancing the immersive experience for drivers by providing seamless and controllable virtual elements on the track, regardless of lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Projectors may be mounted in the tunnel segments for projecting images, for example virtual elements
Data Source
AI summary
A tunnel for mounting above a road surface (3) comprises a plurality of tunnel segments (1). Each tunnel segment is adapted for mounting at least one projector (6) therein, above a respective opening formed by the tunnel segment in a ceiling of the tunnel. The openings (5) of the plurality of tunnel segments are spaced apart in succession in a direction of travel of vehicles in the tunnel. The tunnel segments are disposed such that projection surfaces (8) of the projectors are seamlessly contiguous or overlapping on the road surface in the direction of travel. The tunnel may comprise awnings positioned at its entrance and its exit, the ceiling being formed at least in part by the awnings. A first awning (10A) may be mounted to a first tunnel segment, in the direction of travel, and a second awning (10B) may be mounted to a last tunnel segment, in the direction of travel.