Short Throw Projectors for Multi-Window Video Projection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for creating artificial windows are limited to simulating a single window with a limited view and purpose, failing to provide an expansive scene across multiple windows, which is inadequate for large or secluded rooms where varied moods and views are desired.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that defines an array of window areas on a wall, using short throw video projectors mounted from the ceiling to project sequentially mapped video segments, creating a simulated expansive scene across multiple windows, enhancing the sense of reality with adjustable views.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single artificial window is used to simulate a limited view, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility of the system are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the expansive scene into multiple discrete video segments, each assigned to a separate projector positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows each projector to display a specific portion of the overall scene, enabling the system to simulate multiple windows simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through modular deployment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional system where multiple projectors can display different video segments simultaneously, allowing the same physical space to represent multiple windows with different views. This enables the system to serve various purposes such as creating expansive panoramic views, simulating multiple separate windows, or adapting to different spatial configurations based on room layout and intended use

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple projectors are used to create an expansive scene across multiple windows, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the overall video image into multiple discrete segments, each corresponding to a specific window position and view. This segmentation strategy allows the system to manage complexity by processing and displaying smaller, more manageable video portions through individually positioned projectors, while still achieving the comprehensive expansive scene effect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-window two-dimensional representation to a multi-window three-dimensional spatial arrangement. By positioning multiple projectors at different locations and angles, the system creates a spatial distribution of visual information that enhances adaptability to various room configurations and viewing perspectives while managing complexity through systematic spatial organization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If real windows are used to provide actual views, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to create varied moods and scenes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates virtual copies of window views through video projection rather than relying on actual physical windows. By capturing and displaying scenes from various locations and perspectives through multiple projectors, the system can replicate real window views while also creating imaginary or transformed scenes that real windows cannot provide, such as expansive panoramic views or mood-specific atmospheres

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic control over the displayed scenes, allowing the system to change views, moods, and perspectives in real-time based on user preferences or environmental conditions. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different operational requirements without physical reconfiguration, maintaining ease of operation while significantly enhancing adaptability through software-controlled scene variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables the creation of an immersive, mood-altering experience by simulating multiple window views with varying scenes, effectively replacing real views with desired environments, such as sunny days or peaceful landscapes, in rooms like meeting rooms or funeral homes.

Implementation Method 1

providing short throw video projector in the ceiling of the room proximate to each of the simulated windows, mapping a video of the chosen image to be viewed through the window to create discrete segments of the video to be assigned to separate ones of the array of simulated windows and directing the mapped video segments to the projectors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVideo projection:

Data Source

PatentUS10218950B2Method and apparatus for projecting images on artificial windows
Publication Date: 2019.02.26 ARWAV INC
  • US10218950B2 patent drawing
  • US10218950B2 patent drawing
  • US10218950B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of creating a plurality of simulated window views on an interior surface of a building including defining the area on the surface that will be shown as window views and with a plurality of short throw video projectors hung from the ceiling provide a mapped video recording of an image to be viewed in the window areas where the mapped video recording creates discrete segments of the total view assigned to separate ones of the window areas and projecting the discrete segments on the window areas to create a total view of the selected image, such as a landscape.