Wearable Projection Mapping System for Accurate Surface Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tape measures are bulky and difficult to use, requiring users to physically hold and align them while measuring surfaces, which can lead to frustration and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A projection mapping system that attaches to a user or wearable device, using a processor, networking device, and input/output components to project a customizable tape measure image onto a surface, allowing for accurate measurement without physically holding a device, and includes features like laser marking and image calibration for imperial or metric systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional tape measure is used, then measurement function is provided, but the device is bulky and difficult to use requiring physical holding and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tape measure system with an optical projection system. Instead of physically extending and aligning a mechanical tape, the system uses a projector to display a virtual tape measure image on the surface, eliminating the need for manual holding and alignment while providing measurement functionality through light projection and image display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of a traditional tape measure by projecting an image of a tape measure onto the surface being measured. This optical copy replicates the measurement scale and markings without the physical constraints of a real tape measure, allowing users to see measurements projected directly on the surface while eliminating the need to physically manipulate the measuring device.
2Reliability
If a tape measure is laid out on a surface, then measurement is possible, but the tape measure may become dislodged or twist causing frustration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the mechanical tape measure that can dislodge or twist by substituting it with a projected optical image. The projection system maintains a stable virtual tape measure on the surface without physical contact, preventing dislodgement and twisting issues while ensuring measurement reliability through consistent image projection.
3Productivity
If a user must hold and mark the surface simultaneously, then measurement marking is achieved, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement display function and the marking function into a single integrated system. The projection device simultaneously provides the measurement scale and can project marking indicators directly onto the surface, eliminating the need for separate holding and marking actions. This combination allows users to see measurements and mark surfaces through a unified projection interface, improving both ease of operation and productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A projection system includes a projection apparatus embodied in a housing secured to a user. The projection apparatus has a processor in data communication with a networking device, at least one input/output device, and computer memory. The computer memory includes a program with machine readable instructions that, when effected by processor, perform the following steps: (a) determine an edge of a surface to be measured; (b) project an initial image onto the surface, the initial image being based on a predetermined set of conditions; (c) determine a substantially perpendicular distance D1 between the projection apparatus and the surface; (d) determine a distance D2 between the projection apparatus and the edge of the surface; (e)calibrate the initial image based on the distances D1 and D2 determined in steps (c) and (d); and (f) project an updated image onto the surface.