Welding Simulation Observation for Multi-Perspective Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional welding simulation systems lack the ability to allow third-party observers to view the welding simulation from their own perspective, preventing traditional instructor-student interactions and group observations typical in live weld training.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating observation devices that synchronize with welding simulators to capture and output simulation stimuli from different perspectives, enabling observers to view the welding process from unique angles and positions, and allowing for real-time feedback and interaction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If conventional welding simulation systems are used, then weld training can be conducted with minimized material waste, but third-party observers cannot view the welding simulation from their own perspective

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobservation capabilityVSAvoidperspective viewing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the observation experience into multiple independent perspectives by providing separate observation devices (head-mounted displays, mobile devices, or stationary screens) to different observers. Each device captures and processes sensor data from its own unique position, allowing simultaneous first-person and third-person views without interfering with each other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces sensor data as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the welding simulation and observers. Sensors mounted on the welding simulator capture spatial and visual information, which is then processed and rendered into simulation stimuli that can be viewed from multiple perspectives simultaneously, enabling both the welder and observers to experience the simulation from their respective viewpoints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If observation devices are added to provide multiple perspectives, then observer experience is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobservation qualityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The observation system is designed to be universally compatible with multiple device types. The same sensor data processing pipeline supports head-mounted displays, mobile devices, and stationary screens, allowing the system to adapt to different observation needs without requiring separate complex subsystems for each device type.

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

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of creating multiple independent simulation instances, the system creates virtual copies of the welding simulation from different perspectives by processing the same sensor data through different rendering pipelines. This allows multiple observers to view the simulation simultaneously from their respective viewpoints while sharing the same underlying simulation engine and data source.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP4064247A1Welding simulation systems with observation devices
Publication Date: 2022.09.28 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • EP4064247A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4064247A1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP4064247A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Described herein are examples of welding simulation systems with observation devices that facilitate the types of group interactions that occur in conventional weld training. In some examples, third party observers may use the observation devices to observe the welding simulation from their own perspectives. In some examples, this may allow for traditional "over the shoulder" observation, and/or group/classroom observation and interaction.