Tangible Object Virtualization Station with Segmented Camera and Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tangible object virtualization stations are bulky, difficult to position, and limited in use, requiring large stands for capturing physical information and being designed for specific activities, which hinders user experience and space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact tangible object virtualization station with a base, adjustable head component, camera, lighting array, and display interface that allows stable positioning and versatile use, enabling the capture and manipulation of digital information through a user-friendly interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large bulky stands are used to position the capture device directly over the surface, then the capture quality is improved, but the device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the capture function into two parts: a compact overhead camera for high-quality top-down viewing and a separate display device (such as a smartphone or tablet) that can be positioned at various angles. This segmentation allows the capture device to remain small while still achieving direct overhead positioning, resolving the contradiction between capture quality and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit serves as an intermediary that houses the camera and connects to the display device via wireless or wired communication. This intermediary structure enables the camera to be positioned directly overhead for optimal capture quality while the display device can be placed conveniently for the user, eliminating the need for bulky integrated stands
2Measurement precision
If large bulky stands are used to position the capture device directly over the surface, then the capture quality is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the capture function (compact camera on base) from the display function (separate mobile device), the system makes the capture device easy to position and operate. The compact base can be easily placed on any surface, and the display device can be independently positioned at comfortable viewing angles, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining capture quality
3Reliability
If existing tangible object virtualization stations are designed for specific activities, then the reliability for those activities is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit with overhead camera is designed as a universal platform that can work with any display device (smartphone, tablet, computer) and support various applications including education, gaming, design, and collaboration. The system maintains reliability for specific activities through optimized camera positioning while achieving versatility through device-agnostic architecture and software flexibility
4Ease of manufacture
If existing tangible object virtualization stations are designed to be set up temporarily, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic positioning where the display device can be adjusted to various angles and positions while the camera remains fixed overhead. This dynamic design allows the structure to be simple and easy to manufacture, yet provides stable capture quality through the fixed overhead camera position that eliminates parallax and maintains consistent perspective
Data Source
AI summary
A tangible object virtualization station including a base capable of stably resting on a surface and a head component unit connected to the base. The head component unit extends upwardly from the base. At an end of the head component opposite the base, the head component comprises a camera situated to capture a downward view of the surface proximate the base, a lighting array that directs light downward toward the surface proximate the base. The tangible object virtualization station further comprises a display interface included in the base. The display interface is configured to hold a display device in an upright position and connect the display device to the camera and the lighting array.