Stage Mapping Using Structured Infrared Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for mapping a stage in three dimensions and detecting objects on it are inefficient, requiring manual measurements and being hindered by varying lighting conditions, which complicates the creation of digital 3D models and real-time lighting control.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a lighting fixture with both visible and infrared light sources, a scanner, and a controller that uses structured infrared light to gather data points, allowing for rapid mapping and object detection regardless of lighting conditions, and imports data into 3D modeling software for interactive control of lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement tools are used to map the stage, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but the time required and effort needed increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools with an automated optical scanning system. The scanner captures multiple images of the stage from different angles, and image processing algorithms automatically extract dimension data, eliminating the need for manual measurement while maintaining accuracy and dramatically reducing time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement approach from single-point manual measurements to multi-point automated optical capture. By capturing numerous images simultaneously and processing them computationally, the system gathers comprehensive stage dimension data much faster than sequential manual measurements while improving precision through multiple data points.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If visible light cameras are used to detect objects on stage, then object detection is possible under normal lighting, but detection fails in dark scenes or becomes interfered with by bright light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces infrared light as an intermediary for object detection. Instead of relying on visible light that is affected by stage lighting conditions, the system uses infrared illumination and infrared-sensitive cameras to detect objects. The infrared wavelength acts as a mediator that bypasses the limitations of visible light, enabling consistent detection regardless of stage lighting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the detection wavelength from visible light to infrared. This parameter change allows object detection to occur independently of visible stage lighting conditions, as infrared illumination can be controlled separately and detected by specialized sensors that are insensitive to visible light variations.
3Productivity
If multiple data points are gathered quickly using automated systems, then productivity increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the lighting fixtures multi-functional by equipping them with both visible light sources for stage illumination and infrared light sources for object detection. The same physical infrastructure serves dual purposes, reducing the need for separate dedicated detection equipment and thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the lighting function and detection function into a unified setup. By integrating infrared illumination and scanning capabilities with existing stage lighting infrastructure, the patent achieves rapid data gathering without requiring completely separate complex detection systems, thus balancing productivity gains with manageable system complexity.
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 quick and accurate gathering of stage data for creating interactive 3D models, allowing for intuitive and real-time control of lighting during performances, regardless of lighting conditions, significantly reducing the time and effort required for manual measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The infrared light source illuminates at least a portion of the stage with the structured infrared light
Implementation Method 2
The scanner detects the structured infrared light on the stage
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mapping a stage includes a lighting fixture, a scanner, and a controller. The lighting fixture includes a visible light source and an infrared light source. The lighting fixture at least partially illuminates the stage with structured infrared light. The scanner detects the structured infrared light on the stage. The controller is connected to the lighting fixture and the scanner. The controller turns on the visible light source in a visible light mode and turns on the infrared light source in an infrared light mode. The infrared light source illuminates at least a portion of the stage with the structured infrared light. The controller also directs the scanner to scan the structured infrared light on the portion of the stage, receives signals from the scanner as scan data, and translates the scan data into three-dimensional location data.