Projection System Obstacle Detection for Automatic Playback Pausing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projection systems require manual intervention to pause playback when an obstacle obstructs the projection path, which is inconvenient for users.

Innovation Solution

A projection system equipped with a distance sensor and processor that automatically pauses playback when an obstacle is detected on the projection path, using calculated distance values to determine when to pause and resume playback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual pause operation is used when obstacle appears, then playback can be paused, but user convenience deteriorates due to requiring manual intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplayback control reliabilityVSAvoiduser operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projection apparatus automatically detects obstacles using a distance sensor and autonomously pauses playback without requiring user intervention. The system serves itself by monitoring the projection path and controlling playback based on detected obstacle presence, eliminating the need for manual pause operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The distance sensor continuously monitors the projection path and provides feedback to the processor. When the sensor detects an obstacle (distance value below threshold), the processor receives this feedback and automatically pauses playback. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures reliable automatic playback control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Extent of automation

If distance sensor is added to detect obstacles, then automatic pause function is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic pause functionalityVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distance sensor serves multiple functions: it detects obstacles on the projection path, provides distance information for playback control, and enables automatic pause/resume operations. By making the sensor multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The obstacle detection function is merged with the existing playback control system. The distance sensor is integrated with the processor that already controls playback, combining detection and control functions into a unified system rather than adding a separate standalone obstacle detection system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Automated playback control enhances user experience by seamlessly pausing and resuming projection without user intervention when obstacles appear and disappear.

Implementation Method 1

receiving a plurality of first distance values within a first time through a distance sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12432325B2Projection system and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US12432325B2 patent drawing
  • US12432325B2 patent drawing
  • US12432325B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projection system and control method thereof are provided. A player apparatus generates and transmits an image signal to a projection apparatus, and a plurality of first distance values within a first time are received through a distance sensor. An average value of the plurality of first distance values is calculated and set as a reference value. During a playback of the image signal, an average value of a plurality of second distance values received from the distance sensor is calculated every second time to serve as a first-stage detection value. When the first-stage detection value is less than the reference value, the image signal is paused.