Cutting Plotter Ultrasonic Positioning and Projection Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cutting plotters face difficulties in accurately editing cutting or printing patterns due to limitations in display size and the complexity of operation switches, making it hard for users to understand and adjust cutting positions effectively.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus equipped with a moving device, detection device for ultrasonic waves, and a projection device that allows for the specification of a designated position on a holding member, enabling the determination of cutting or printing positions and editing patterns based on detected ultrasonic waves, with a control device generating data for precise cutting or printing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the pattern is displayed in a reduced size on the display to accommodate the limited display area, then the display can show the pattern, but the user cannot correctly understand the changed cutting position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a projector as an intermediary device that projects the pattern and menu images directly onto the sheet or holding sheet. This allows users to see full-size visual feedback of the cutting position and pattern without being constrained by the small display area, thereby maintaining position understanding accuracy while working within limited display space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional display viewing to three-dimensional spatial projection by projecting images directly onto the work material. This dimensional change allows users to view the pattern at its actual size and position context, eliminating the need to interpret reduced-size representations on a small display screen.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation switches are provided on the cutting plotter to enable editing of patterns and processing positions, then the functionality is sufficient, but the operation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of multiple physical operation switches with an ultrasonic input device (such as a stylus or pen) that detects position and gesture information. This substitution simplifies the user interface by eliminating the need for users to locate and manipulate multiple switches, while still providing comprehensive pattern editing functionality through intuitive positional input.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic input device acts as an intermediary between the user and the system, translating physical gestures and positions into digital commands. This intermediary approach allows users to interact with the system through natural movements rather than complex switch combinations, reducing operational complexity while maintaining full editing capability.
3Loss of information
If the user operates the cutting plotter while viewing the display to change cutting positions, then the system provides visual feedback, but the limited display size prevents correct understanding of the cutting position
Solution Approach 1:
The projector serves as an intermediary that delivers visual information directly to the work area, bypassing the limitation of the small display. By projecting the pattern and cutting position information onto the sheet itself, the system preserves all visual information while providing accurate spatial context that helps users understand the exact cutting position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system moves visual information from the two-dimensional display plane to the three-dimensional work plane by projecting images onto the sheet. This dimensional transition allows users to see the cutting position in its actual spatial context at full scale, eliminating the information loss and positioning ambiguity caused by reduced-size display representations.
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
Facilitates easy and accurate editing of patterns by projecting information onto the object, simplifying the operation process and improving user interaction with the cutting plotter, allowing for precise cutting or printing positions to be determined and applied.
Implementation Method 1
a detection device configured to detect ultrasonic waves
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a moving device moving a holding member and a cutting or printing head relative to each other. The apparatus specifies, as a designated position, a position of an ultrasonic source located within a projection range on the holding member. The apparatus determines an edit pattern to be applied to an object based on the designated position to be specified and also determines a cutting or printing position on the object based on the designated position to be specified. The edit pattern is projected onto a holding region of the holding member and a menu image is projected onto an edge region of the holding member. The apparatus edits the edit pattern according to editing contents and generates data to perform cutting or printing on the object. The apparatus controls the moving device based on the generated data.