Projection Apparatus Mode Detection via LED Indicators

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in recognizing the current operational function of projection apparatuses with both projection and lighting capabilities, leading to potential malfunctions when attempting to connect information processing devices, as the distinction between these functions is not easily discernible.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus is developed with communication, acquiring, and presenting units to determine and display the operational mode of the projection apparatus, allowing users to identify whether it is in projection or lighting mode, thereby preventing unintended connections and malfunctions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projection apparatus integrates both projection function and lighting function, then the versatility and space utilization are improved, but the user's ability to recognize the current operating function deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction integrationVSAvoidfunction recognition
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses different LED indicator colors to represent different operating functions. When the projection apparatus is in projection mode, the LED indicator displays one color, and when in lighting mode, it displays another color. This allows users to immediately recognize the current function through color changes, resolving the contradiction between integrated functionality and function recognizability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an LED indicator as an intermediary element that mediates between the complex internal state of the projection apparatus and the user's perception. The LED indicator translates the internal operating mode into visible color signals, making the current function easily identifiable without requiring users to understand complex internal states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the projection apparatus operates in lighting mode without clear indication, then the lighting function can be performed, but the risk of erroneous connection with information processing apparatus increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting function executionVSAvoidconnection safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary indication through LED color changes before any connection operation can occur. The system proactively displays the current operating mode via LED color, allowing users to recognize the lighting mode before attempting connection. This preliminary visual warning prevents erroneous connections by providing advance notice of the apparatus's operational state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the LED indicator continuously provides information about the current operating mode. This real-time feedback loop ensures that users are always aware of whether the apparatus is in projection or lighting mode, enabling them to make informed decisions about connection operations and avoid unreliable connections during lighting mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10560972B2Information processing apparatus, and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2020.02.11 CANON KK
  • US10560972B2 patent drawing
  • US10560972B2 patent drawing
  • US10560972B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus that is capable of externally controlling a projection apparatus, the information processing apparatus comprises a communication unit configured to perform communication with the projection apparatus, an acquiring unit configured to acquire function information of the projection apparatus from the projection apparatus via the communication unit, a presenting unit configured to present the function information of the projection apparatus acquired by the acquiring unit, and a control unit configured to control the presenting unit so as to present an indication of whether the projection apparatus is operating with a projection function or with a lighting function based on the function information of the projection apparatus acquired by the acquiring unit.