Transparent Sheet 3D Structure Rendering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for creating a realistic 3D effect are limited by cost and practical considerations, such as density and number of projection barriers, in systems that attempt to electronically replicate the effect of multi-layer artistic works.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that uses a computer to determine and render two-dimensional layers of a digital model onto transparent sheets, which are then assembled to produce a three-dimensional structure, with pixel colors modified based on view direction, saliency, occlusion, and optical properties to create a realistic 3D image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple projection barriers are used to create a realistic 3D effect, then the depth perception and visual fidelity improve, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth perception accuracyVSAvoidnumber of projection barriers
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses printed images on transparent sheets as copies of the 3D scene rather than using multiple physical projection barriers. Each sheet contains a 2D representation of the scene from a specific viewpoint, and stacking multiple such copies creates the illusion of depth without requiring complex optical systems. This replaces expensive optical components with simple printed materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of multiple projectors and beamsplitters with a static arrangement of printed transparent sheets. Instead of using active optical components that require precise alignment and control, the system uses passive printed images that can be simply stacked and viewed, dramatically reducing device complexity while maintaining the 3D effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If the number of transparent sheets is increased to improve 3D realism, then the visual fidelity improves, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual fidelityVSAvoidassembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the 3D scene into multiple discrete 2D layers, each printed on a separate transparent sheet. This segmentation allows each layer to be manufactured independently using standard printing processes, and the final 3D effect is achieved by simply stacking these pre-manufactured layers together, making the overall system easier to manufacture and assemble.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the optical parameters of the transparent sheets by incorporating printed patterns with specific opacity and color values calculated to account for the transparency of the material. This allows the images to be correctly rendered when viewed through multiple layers, achieving high visual fidelity without requiring complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If pixel colors are adjusted to account for transparency and view direction, then the realism of the 3D effect improves, but the computational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor accuracyVSAvoidrendering computation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs all necessary color and opacity calculations during the image rendering phase, before the physical sheets are manufactured. The software pre-computes the correct pixel values for each layer, taking into account the transparency of the material and the desired 3D effect. This preliminary computational action eliminates the need for complex real-time processing or adjustment mechanisms in the final device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8903534B2System and method for producing three-dimensional multi-layer objects from digital models
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 DISNEY ENTERPRISES INC
  • US8903534B2 patent drawing
  • US8903534B2 patent drawing
  • US8903534B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A set of two-dimensional layers is determined based on a digital three-dimensional model. An image corresponding to each of the layers is rendered on each of a corresponding number of sheets of at least partially transparent material. The sheets of material are assembled together to produce a three-dimensional structure corresponding to the digital model.