Patent Description:
Conventional projection devices that can project images onto screens, for example, have been known. As a technique related to such projection devices, Patent Literature (<CIT>) discloses a method for displaying objects of a design plan on a boundary surface of a room.

<CIT> describes a laser scanner for acquiring three-dimensional measuring points, having a body mounted on a base, wherein the body is rotatable relative to the base about an azimuth axis and comprises an emitting unit for providing a transmission beam, a receiving unit for detecting a reception beam, a directing unit, in particular a prism, rotatable about an elevation axis configured to direct the transmission beam from the emitting unit towards a scene, direct the reception beam from the scene to the beam receiving unit, and a control unit. The scanner comprises a projector as a self-contained module arranged in or on the body, configured to direct a light pattern at the scene, wherein position and shape of the pattern are controllable by the control unit based at least in part on projection data linked to the measuring points acquired with the laser scanner at the scene.

<CIT> describes an augmented reality system that includes a remote computing environment and an augmented reality device, where the remote computing environment is employed to identify tasks for an operator to perform to complete a project. The tasks may be sequentially displayed in an augmented reality session and the environment may be augmented to facilitate performance of the tasks by an operator. <CIT> describes a device that projects an image onto any surface in a room and distorts the image before projection so that a projected version of the image will not be distorted. [Summary of Invention].

However, with the aforementioned conventional technique, work cannot be performed efficiently when there are many work spots.

In view of the above, the present invention aims to provide a projection system, a projection device, and a projection method that allow workers to perform their work efficiently, and makes it possible to shorten a construction period and reduce burdens on the workers.

In order to achieve the above, the present invention relates to a projection system according to claim <NUM> and a projection method according to claim <NUM>. Claims <NUM> to <NUM> refer to specifically advantageous realizations of the projection system according to claim <NUM>. Claims <NUM> to <NUM> refer to specifically advantageous realizations of the projection method according to claim <NUM>.

The projection device and so on according to the present invention can allow workers to perform their work efficiently, and makes it possible to shorten a construction period and reduce burdens on the workers.

Hereinafter, a projection system, a projection device, and a projection method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below shows a specific example of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, structural components, the arrangement and connection of the structural components, steps and the order of the steps, or the like mentioned in the following embodiment are mere examples and not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, among the structural components in the following embodiment, structural components not recited in any one of the independent claims representing broadest concepts of the present invention are described as optional structural components.

In addition, each diagram is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a precise illustration. Therefore, for example, the scales etc. of the drawings are not necessarily precise. Moreover, throughout the figures, structural components that are essentially the same share like reference signs, and duplicate description is omitted or simplified.

An overview of a projection system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> is a diagram for illustrating the overview of the projection system according to the present embodiment. <FIG> is an external view of devices included in the projection system according to the present embodiment.

Projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes projection device <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, projection device <NUM> is placed in work site <NUM> in a building under construction. Projection device <NUM> projects drawings <NUM> onto a structure that is included in work site <NUM>. Specifically, this structure may be a floor, a wall, a pillar, or a ceiling, for example. Drawing <NUM> is, for example, a drawing to be projected onto work spot <NUM> in work site <NUM>. Worker <NUM> can perform work easily and precisely by following drawing <NUM>.

Examples of the work include marking. For example, drawing <NUM> to be projected with a length specified in a design is a line or a shape of light projected at a position where worker <NUM> should mark. Worker <NUM> can easily draw a marking line by simply tracing the line or shape of light shown in drawing <NUM>. Note that, such a line or shape of light need not necessarily be used as a guide for drawing a marking line. A line or shape of light itself may be used as a marking line. Moreover, the work need not be marking. The work may be drilling, and may be any other work without limitation.

There are multiple work spots at which worker <NUM> should perform work in work site <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, there are two work spots <NUM> and <NUM> in work site <NUM>. Worker <NUM> is to perform work at work spot <NUM> and work spot <NUM> in stated sequence.

Projection device <NUM> projects drawing <NUM> onto work spot <NUM>. At this time, the next work spot <NUM> is not included within projection angle <NUM> of projection device <NUM>. In projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment, the orientation of projection device <NUM> is automatically changed after the work at work spot <NUM> has finished and then drawing <NUM> is projected onto work spot <NUM>. This allows worker <NUM> to work efficiently.

Next, a specific functional configuration of projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG> is a block diagram of the functional configuration of the projection system according to the present embodiment.

Projection device <NUM> is mounted on a tripod and placed on the floor of work site <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example. Alternatively, projection device <NUM> may be placed on a wall or the ceiling of work site <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, projection device <NUM> includes communicator <NUM>, distance measurer <NUM>, projector <NUM>, controller <NUM>, storage <NUM>, and driver <NUM>.

Communicator <NUM> is a communication interface that allows projection device <NUM> to communicate with data processing device <NUM> and terminal device <NUM>. Communicator <NUM> communicates wirelessly with each of data processing device <NUM> and terminal device <NUM>, but may also communicate with those devices through wired communication. The standard of the communication to be performed by communicator <NUM> may be any standard without limitation.

Distance measurer <NUM> is an example of a detector and measures a distance from projection device <NUM> to a structure that is included in work site <NUM>. Distance measurer <NUM> is a range image sensor, such as a time of flight (TOF) sensor, for example. The range image sensor produces a distance image as a result of distance measurement. Each of the pixel values of pixels that constitute the distance image indicates a distance from distance measurer <NUM>. Note that distance measurer <NUM> may be any other distance measuring sensors. For example, distance measurer <NUM> may be a distance measuring sensor using a phase difference detection method, or a distance measuring sensor using a triangulation method. As illustrated in <FIG>, distance measurer <NUM> includes distance measuring light source 22a and sensing unit 22b.

Distance measuring light source 22a is a light source that emits light to a structure. Distance measuring light source 22a is a light-emitting element that emits infrared light, for example. Alternatively, distance measuring light source 22a may be a light-emitting element that emits visible light. Note that distance measuring light source 22a need not be a different light source from light source 23a included in projector <NUM>. Light source 23a included in projector <NUM> may be used as distance measuring light source 22a. In other words, distance measurer <NUM> need not have distance measuring light source 22a, and may be a sensor including only sensing unit 22b.

Sensing unit 22b is a light receiving element that detects reflected light, which is light emitted by distance measuring light source 22a and reflected off the structure. Sensing unit 22b is an image sensor including a photodiode array, for example.

Projector <NUM> is a projection module for projecting drawing <NUM> onto a projection plane. Projector <NUM> includes light source 23a and scanner 23b. Although not illustrated, projector <NUM> may include optical components, such as a lens and a mirror.

Light source 23a is a semiconductor laser element that emits visible light, for example. Alternatively, light source 23a may be a light emitting diode (LED). Light source 23a may have a configuration that makes it possible to change the emission color. For example, light source 23a may include multiple light-emitting elements that emit light in different colors. Examples of the light emitting elements include blue light emitting element, green light emitting element, and red light emitting element.

Scanner 23b scans the light emitted by light source 23a on a structure. Scanner 23b is a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) mirror or a Galvano scanner, for example.

In the present embodiment, projector <NUM> projects a target drawing, which is a drawing to be projected onto a target spot. This target spot is a work spot determined by data processing device <NUM> among work spots <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, in the example illustrated in <FIG>, projector <NUM> projects drawing <NUM> onto work spot <NUM>.

Moreover, there is a limit to projection angle <NUM> that can be projected by projector <NUM>. For example, when projection device <NUM> is placed on a horizontal plane, projection angle <NUM> that can be projected is in the range of approximately <NUM>° in the horizontal direction and approximately <NUM>° in the vertical direction. Therefore, in the example shown in <FIG>, drawing <NUM> can be projected onto work spot <NUM>, but drawing <NUM> cannot be projected onto work spot <NUM>. In order to project drawing <NUM> onto work spot <NUM>, it is necessary to change the orientation of projection device <NUM> automatically. In the present embodiment, the direction and the range that can be projected by projector <NUM> are changed by changing the orientation of projection device <NUM> by driver <NUM>.

Controller <NUM> is a control device that controls distance measurer <NUM>, projector <NUM>, and driver <NUM> to project drawing <NUM> onto a projection plane. For example, controller <NUM> is achieved by large scale integration (LSI), which is an integrated circuit (IC). Such an integrated circuit is not limited to LSI, and may be achieved by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. For example, controller <NUM> may be achieved by a microcomputer. Furthermore, controller <NUM> may be a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a reconfigurable processor capable of reconfiguring the connections and settings of circuit cells inside LSI.

Storage <NUM> is a recording device that stores a control program for projecting drawing <NUM>. This control program is to be executed by controller <NUM>. For example, storage <NUM> is non-volatile memory and is achieved by semiconductor memory.

Driver <NUM> is a drive mechanism for changing the orientation of projection device <NUM>. Driver <NUM> changes the projectable direction by changing the orientation of projection device <NUM>. For example, driver <NUM> can change the orientation of projection device <NUM> in directions of pan (horizontal direction), tilt (vertical direction) and roll (rotational direction). Driver <NUM> is achieved, for example, by a stepping motor.

In the present embodiment, a sequence of projection of drawings is determined for a plurality of work spots. For example, in the example shown in <FIG>, it is assumed that drawings are projected onto work spot <NUM> (a first work spot) and work spot <NUM> (a second work spot) in a stated sequence. In this case, when work spot <NUM> is outside projection angle <NUM> that can be projected by projection device <NUM>, driver <NUM> changes the orientation of projection device <NUM> to include work spot <NUM> within projection angle <NUM> after the work at work spot <NUM> is finished. Accordingly, the orientation of projection device <NUM> is changed automatically without worker <NUM> changing the orientation of projection device <NUM>, and drawing <NUM> is projected onto the next work spot <NUM>.

For example, the end of work is determined by controller <NUM> based on a signal transmitted from terminal device <NUM> operated by worker <NUM>. Alternatively, controller <NUM> may determine the end of work based on images captured by a camera, which is not illustrated. This camera captures images of how worker <NUM> performs the work or a result of the work at work spot <NUM>. Note that, when sensing unit 22b produces a visible light image, controller <NUM> may use a detection result of sensing unit 22b instead of images captured by the camera.

Driver <NUM> is controlled by controller <NUM>. Controller <NUM> determines a direction and amount of movement of the orientation of projection device <NUM> to include work spot <NUM> within projection angle <NUM>, based on a current orientation of projection device <NUM> and the position of the next work spot <NUM>. Controller <NUM> controls driver <NUM> with the determined direction and amount of movement, so that driver <NUM> changes the orientation of projection device <NUM>. Note that, when there are one or more work spots at which work is to be performed after work spot <NUM>, controller <NUM> may determine the direction and amount of movement so that work spot <NUM> and a plurality of work spots including one or more consecutive work spots from work spot <NUM> in the sequence of the work are within projection angle <NUM>. This makes it possible to set projection angle <NUM> such that the work spots are within projection angle <NUM> by changing the orientation once, and thus the frequency of changing the orientation can be reduced.

Next, data processing device <NUM> will be described. Data processing device <NUM> is an information processing device that allows a user to input a sequence of work by generating and displaying an image for input. Data processing device <NUM> determines work spots onto which drawings are to be projected and target drawings to be projected onto the work spots in accordance with the sequence of work input by the user. Data processing device <NUM> is, for example, a computer device. As illustrated in <FIG>, data processing device <NUM> includes communicator <NUM>, data processor <NUM>, controller <NUM>, storage <NUM>, receiver <NUM>, and display <NUM>.

Communicator <NUM> is a communication interface that allows data processing device <NUM> to communicate with projection device <NUM> and terminal device <NUM>. Communicator <NUM> communicates wirelessly with projection device <NUM> and terminal device <NUM>, but may also communicate with those devices through wired communication. The standard of the communication to be performed by communicator <NUM> may be any standard without limitation.

Based on design data, data processor <NUM> generates an image for input for allowing a user to input the sequence of work for the work spots and causes display <NUM> to display the image for input. Data processor <NUM> is, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. Moreover, based on the sequence of work that has been input, data processor <NUM> determines the sequence of the work spots onto which drawings are to be projected, and the drawings to be projected in accordance with the determined sequence. Data processor <NUM> transmits sequence information indicating the determined sequence and the drawings to be individually projected onto the work spots to controller <NUM> of projection device <NUM> via communicator <NUM> and communicator <NUM>.

The design data is data that shows work spots. Specifically, the design data is three-dimensional data showing the size and shape of work site <NUM>. For example, the design data is 3D computer-aided design (CAD) data. The design data includes two-dimensional data showing a layout of work site <NUM> and two-dimensional data showing work spots. In the design data, each of the work spots is associated with a corresponding drawing to be projected. When a work spot is determined as a target spot, a target drawing to be projected onto the target spot is determined by referring to the design data.

For example, data processor <NUM> associates the design data with an actual work site <NUM>. Such an actual work site <NUM> is shown, for example, by spatial data obtained by measuring distances to surrounding structures after projection device <NUM> is placed in work site <NUM>. Such association specifies the placing position and orientation of projection device <NUM> in the design data. Note that a user, such as worker <NUM> or a manager of the work, may input a position in the design data of the placed projection device <NUM>. In other words, the distances of work site <NUM> need not be measured.

Controller <NUM> is a control device that controls communicator <NUM>, data processor <NUM>, storage <NUM>, receiver <NUM>, and display <NUM> to generate an image for input and determine drawings and the sequence of work spots. For example, controller <NUM> is achieved by LSI, which is an integrated circuit. Such an integrated circuit is not limited to LSI, and may be achieved by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. For example, controller <NUM> may be achieved by a microcomputer. Furthermore, controller <NUM> may be an FPGA or a reconfigurable processor capable of reconfiguring connection and settings of circuit cells inside LSI.

Storage <NUM> is a recording device that stores a control program for generating an image for input and determining drawings and the sequence of work spots. The control program is to be executed by data processor <NUM> and controller <NUM>. For example, storage <NUM> is non-volatile memory and is achieved by semiconductor memory. Storage <NUM> also stores the design data and drawing data indicating drawings to be projected.

Receiver <NUM> is an example of a first receiver that receives input of a sequence of work. Receiver <NUM> receives input of a sequence of work from worker <NUM> or a manager of the work, for example. For example, receiver <NUM> is an input device, such as a keyboard or a mouse, or may be a touch sensor or a physical button.

Display <NUM> displays an image for input for allowing a user to input the sequence of work. Display <NUM> is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display panel.

Next, terminal device <NUM> will be described. Terminal device <NUM> also functions as a remote controller that allows worker <NUM> to remotely control projection device <NUM>. For example, terminal device <NUM> is a dedicated remote controller for projection device <NUM>. Alternatively, terminal device <NUM> may be a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone or a tablet device on which a dedicated application program is installed. As illustrated in <FIG>, projection device <NUM> includes communicator <NUM>, operation receiver <NUM>, display <NUM>, controller <NUM>, and storage <NUM>.

Communicator <NUM> is a communication interface that allows terminal device <NUM> to communicate with projection device <NUM> and data processing device <NUM>. Communicator <NUM> communicates wirelessly with projection device <NUM> and data processing device <NUM>, but may also communicate with those devices through wired communication. The standard of the communication to be performed by communicator <NUM> may be any standard without limitation.

Operation receiver <NUM> is a user interface device that receives an operation of worker <NUM>. For example, operation receiver <NUM> is achieved by one or more physical buttons, or may be a touch panel, or the like.

Display <NUM> displays an image showing an operating status of projection device <NUM>, for example. Display <NUM> is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel.

Controller <NUM> is a control device that controls communicator <NUM>, operation receiver <NUM>, display <NUM>, and storage <NUM>. Controller <NUM> is achieved by LSI, which is an integrated circuit. Such an integrated circuit is not limited to LSI, and may be achieved by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. For example, controller <NUM> may be achieved by a microcomputer. Furthermore, controller <NUM> may be an FPGA, or a reconfigurable processor capable of reconfiguring the connections and settings of circuit cells inside LSI.

Specifically, controller <NUM> causes communicator <NUM> to transmit a signal to projection device <NUM> to operate projection device <NUM> in response to an operation received by operation receiver <NUM>. For example, when operation receiver <NUM> receives an operation of an instruction indicating an end of work from worker <NUM>, controller <NUM> causes communicator <NUM> to transmit an end signal indicating the end of work to projection device <NUM>.

Storage <NUM> is a recording device that stores a control program that is to be executed by controller <NUM>. For example, storage <NUM> is non-volatile memory and is achieved by semiconductor memory. Storage <NUM> may store unique identification information in terminal device <NUM>.

Next, operations of projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating operations of projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, first, in data processing device <NUM>, display <NUM> displays an image for input (S10). Specifically, data processor <NUM> generates image for input <NUM> shown in <FIG>, based on the design data. Display <NUM> displays the generated image for input <NUM>. Note that <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example of the image for input for inputting a sequence of work in the projection system according to the embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, image for input <NUM> shows work site <NUM> in two or three dimensions and includes work spots <NUM> to <NUM>. Work spots <NUM> to <NUM> in image for input <NUM> can be selected sequentially by a user.

After image for input <NUM> appears on display <NUM>, receiver <NUM> receives input of a sequence of work as illustrated in <FIG> (S11). For example, receiver <NUM> receives, as a sequence of work, the sequence of work spots <NUM> to <NUM> selected by a user.

Note that it is not necessary to select all work spots <NUM> to <NUM>. For example, if multiple workers <NUM> share work, only work responsible for one worker <NUM> may be selected. Image for input <NUM> includes enter button <NUM> and cancel button <NUM>. When receiver <NUM> receives selection of enter button <NUM>, data processor <NUM> determines, as the sequence of work, the sequence of the work spots selected before enter button <NUM> is selected. Moreover, when input <NUM> receives selection of cancel button <NUM>, data processor <NUM> releases the selected work spots and makes it possible to select work spots again.

<FIG> is a table showing an example of sequence information showing a sequence of work input to projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, each of work spots <NUM> to <NUM> is associated with a corresponding drawing to be projected. Data processor <NUM> transmits the sequence information shown in <FIG> to controller <NUM> of projection device <NUM> via communicator <NUM> and communicator <NUM>.

Next, projection device <NUM> is placed (S12). For example, worker <NUM> places projection device <NUM> on the floor of work site <NUM>. Note that projection device <NUM> may be placed before an image for input is displayed. After projection device <NUM> is placed, data processing device <NUM> associates the actual work site <NUM> with the design data.

Next, controller <NUM> determines whether or not a target spot onto which a drawing is to be projected is within projection angle <NUM> based on the sequence information (S13). If the target spot is not within projection angle <NUM> (No in S13), controller <NUM> changes the orientation of projection device <NUM> by controlling driver <NUM> (S14). In this way, the target spot is located within projection angle <NUM> of by projection device <NUM>, making it possible to project drawing <NUM>. If the target spot is within projection angle <NUM> (Yes in S13), driver <NUM> maintains the current state without changing the orientation of projection device <NUM>.

Next, projector <NUM> of projection device <NUM> projects a corresponding drawing onto the target spot that is a determined work spot (S15). Worker <NUM> performs work, such as marking, based on drawing <NUM> that is displayed. After the work is finished, worker <NUM> provides an instruction indicating the end of work by operating terminal device <NUM>. Drawing <NUM> is kept being projected onto the work spot until the end of the work is instructed (No in S16). After the end of the work is instructed (Yes in S16), if there is a next work spot (Yes in S17), the process returns to step S13 and controller <NUM> determines whether or not the next work spot is within projection angle <NUM>. After that, the process of steps S13 to S17 described above will be repeated until the work at all work spots has been finished (No in S17).

<FIG> are diagrams illustrating a situation in which the orientation of projection device <NUM> in projection system <NUM> according to the embodiment is changed. Here, it is assumed that the sequence of work that has been input is in order of work spot <NUM> and work spot <NUM>.

After work at work spot <NUM> is finished, worker <NUM> operates terminal device <NUM> and performs input to provide an instruction indicating the end of the work at work spot <NUM>. With this, an end signal is transmitted from terminal device <NUM> to projection device <NUM> via communicator <NUM> and communicator <NUM>.

At this time, as illustrated in <FIG>, work spot <NUM> is outside projection angle <NUM> of projection device <NUM>. Therefore, as illustrated in <FIG>, work spot <NUM> is included within projection angle <NUM> by changing the orientation of projection device <NUM> by driver <NUM>. Drawing <NUM> is then displayed onto work spot <NUM>. This allows worker <NUM> to perform work at work spot <NUM>.

As described above, projection system <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes projection device <NUM> that projects drawings <NUM> individually onto a plurality of work spots in work site <NUM>. Projection device <NUM> includes driver <NUM> that changes an orientation of projection device <NUM>. When drawings are individually projected onto a first work spot and a second work spot in a stated sequence, and the second work spot is outside projection angle <NUM> that is projectable by projection device <NUM>, driver <NUM> changes the orientation of projection device <NUM> to include the second work spot within projection angle <NUM> after work at the first work spot is finished, the first work spot and the second work spot being included in the plurality of work spots.

This reduces a burden on worker <NUM>, because worker <NUM> does not have to change the orientation of projection device <NUM>. Since drawings <NUM> are projected in sequence, worker <NUM> only needs to work in accordance with the projected drawing <NUM> and can skip checking a design drawing. Accordingly, the present embodiment allows worker <NUM> to work efficiently, and reduces a construction period and burdens on workers.

Moreover, for example, projection system <NUM> further includes: display <NUM>; data processor <NUM> that generates, based on design data showing the plurality of work spots, image for input <NUM> for inputting a sequence of work at the plurality of work spots, and causes display <NUM> to display image for input <NUM>; and receiver <NUM> that receives input of the sequence of the work. Projection device <NUM> projects drawings <NUM> individually onto the plurality of work spots in accordance with the sequence of the work received by receiver <NUM>.

With this, drawings <NUM> are projected in accordance with the sequence input by the user. This allows worker <NUM> to input, as a sequence of work, a sequence that is easy for them to work, thereby improving the work efficiency. The user can input any sequence as the sequence of work. Here, the user can input only a sequence of some of the work spots. Therefore, for example, work spots that are not responsible for worker <NUM> or that are not yet available for work can be omitted from the sequence of work. This makes it is possible to prevent drawing <NUM> from being projected onto these work spots.

Moreover, for example, projection system <NUM> further includes operation receiver <NUM> that receives an instruction indicating an end of work from worker <NUM> performs work at the plurality of work spots. Projection device <NUM> projects one of drawings <NUM> onto the second work spot after the instruction indicating the end of work at the first work spot is received by operation receiver <NUM>.

This allows drawing <NUM> to be projected onto a next work spot at a timing desired by worker <NUM> after the work at the work spot has been finished. Therefore, it is possible to prevent drawing <NUM> from being projected onto the next work spot, when worker <NUM> is not ready to perform next work regardless of before or after the end of work. Accordingly, since worker <NUM> can move on to the next work at a desired timing, the work efficiency can be improved.

Moreover, for example, a projection method according to the present embodiment includes: projecting drawings <NUM> individually onto a plurality of work spots in work site <NUM> by projection device <NUM> including driver <NUM> that changes an orientation of projection device <NUM>. When drawings <NUM> are individually projected onto a first work spot and a second work spot in a stated sequence, and the second work spot is outside projection angle <NUM> that is projectable by projection device <NUM>, the projecting includes changing the orientation of projection device <NUM> by driver <NUM> to include the second work spot within projection angle <NUM> after work at the first work spot is finished. The first work spot and the second work spot are included in the plurality of work spots.

This reduces the burden on worker <NUM>, because worker <NUM> does not have to change the orientation of projection device <NUM>. Since drawings <NUM> are projected in sequence, worker <NUM> only needs to work in accordance with the projected drawing <NUM> and can skip checking the design drawing. Accordingly, the present embodiment allows worker <NUM> to work efficiently, and reduce a construction period and burdens on workers.

Moreover, for example, the projection method further includes: generating image for input <NUM> for inputting a sequence of work at the plurality of work spots based on design data showing the plurality of work spots, and causing display <NUM> to display a generated image; and receiving input of the sequence of work. The projecting includes projecting drawings <NUM> individually onto the plurality of work spots in accordance with the sequence of the work that has been received.

With this, drawings <NUM> are projected in accordance with the sequence input by the user. This allows worker <NUM> to input, as a sequence of work, a sequence that is easy for them to work, thereby improving the work efficiency.

Moreover, for example, the projection method further includes: receiving an instruction indicating an end of work from worker <NUM> who performs work at the plurality of work spots. The projecting includes projecting one of drawings <NUM> onto the second work spot after the instruction indicating the end of the work at the first work spot is received.

With this, since worker <NUM> can move on to the next work at a desired timing, the work efficiency can be improved.

Next, variations of the embodiment will be described. The following will mainly describe differences between the embodiment and variations, and overlapping description will be omitted or simplified.

For example, in the embodiment, when projection device <NUM> projects drawing <NUM> onto a structure of work site <NUM>, a projection plane of the structure might not be facing the front of projection device <NUM>. Therefore, drawing <NUM> might not be projected as designed in a design plan.

In view of this, projection device <NUM> of projection system <NUM> according to this variation corrects drawing <NUM> to project drawing <NUM>. Specifically, distance measurer <NUM> of projection device <NUM> detects a distance to the projection plane. Based on the distance detected by distance measurer <NUM>, controller <NUM> corrects the drawing and causes projector <NUM> to project the corrected drawing <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example of a projection process in projection system <NUM> according to the present variation. Specifically, <FIG> illustrates an example of a specific process of step S15 shown in <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, first, controller <NUM> performs a spatial recognition process. Specifically, controller <NUM> controls distance measurer <NUM> to cause distance measurer <NUM> to measure the distance from projection device <NUM> to a work spot which is a projection plane (S20). Specifically, controller <NUM> controls driver <NUM> to change the orientation of distance measurer <NUM> to pan and tilt directions, and causes distance measurer <NUM> to measure the distance to the projection plane. In this way, distances from projection device <NUM> to walls, a floor, and a ceiling can be measured. Controller <NUM> then transmits distance data indicating the measured distances to data processing device <NUM> via communicator <NUM>.

Data processor <NUM> of data processing device <NUM> generates spatial data showing an actual measurement result of the shape and size of work site <NUM>, based on the distance data received via communicator <NUM> (S21). Next, data processing device <NUM> reads spatial design data showing the designed shape and size of work site <NUM> included in the design data stored in storage <NUM>, and associates the spatial data with the spatial design data (S22).

Note that association between the spatial data and the spatial design data performed in steps S20 to S22 may be performed at the timing when projection device <NUM> is placed. The association between the spatial data and the spatial design data performed in steps S20 to S22 need not be performed every time drawing <NUM> is projected. The association may be performed only once.

Next, data processing device <NUM> specifies the position and orientation of projection device <NUM> in work site <NUM> based on the result of association (S23). Specifically, data processor <NUM> of data processing device <NUM> transmits, to projection device <NUM> via communicator <NUM>, a control signal for projecting a drawing corresponding to a work spot onto the work spot (projection plane). When the control signal is received by projection device <NUM> via communicator <NUM>, controller <NUM> of projection device <NUM> specifies the work point based on the control signal, corrects the target drawing, and projects the corrected target drawing onto the work spot in an actual size (S24). If the projection axis of projector <NUM> (i.e., the central axis of the projected light, i.e., the optical axis) is not orthogonal to the projection plane, distortion correction is performed based on the angle at which the projection axis intersects the projection plane (specifically, pan and tilt angles, for example).

<FIG> is a diagram for illustrating a distortion correction process and a projection magnification correction process. Note that the angle at which the projection axis intersects the projection plane is determined by the position of projection device <NUM> in work site <NUM> specified in step S15 and inclination of projection device <NUM> with respect to the projection plane. When the projection plane is a quadrilateral region, the inclination of projection device <NUM> is calculated based on the distance to each vertex of the quadrilateral region, for example. Alternatively, the inclination of projection device <NUM> may be calculated based on the amount by which projection device <NUM> is moved by driver <NUM> in each of the pan, tilt, and roll directions.

In order to project drawing <NUM> in an actual size, the projection magnification is corrected. The length of a line of light to the projection plane when scanner 23b (MEMS mirror) performs scan at the same angle varies depending on the distance from projection device <NUM> to the projection plane. Therefore, controller <NUM> corrects the projection magnification (i.e., a tilt angle of scanner 23b), for example, based on a distance from projection device <NUM> to the projection plane, which is included in the distance data measured in step S20.

The distortion correction process and the projection magnification correction process described above makes it possible to project a line of light representing a work spot (for example, a position of marking) at an appropriate location and in an appropriate size (length).

As described above, in projection system <NUM> according to the present variation, projection device <NUM> further includes sensing unit 22b that detects a distance to a projection plane. Projection device <NUM> corrects the drawings based on the distance detected and projects corrected drawings. Moreover, for example, in the projection method according to the present variation, the projecting includes detecting a distance to a projection plane to correct the drawings based on the distance detected, and projecting corrected drawings.

With this, an accurate drawing <NUM> is displayed onto a work spot. This makes it easier for worker <NUM> to work according to the projected drawing <NUM>. Therefore, work efficiency can be further improved.

Furthermore, an example in which projection device <NUM>, data processing device <NUM>, and terminal device <NUM> are separate devices has been described in the above embodiment, but these devices may be an integrated device, for example. <FIG> is a block diagram of a function configuration of projection device <NUM> according to the present variation.

Projection device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> additionally includes data processor <NUM>, receiver <NUM>, display <NUM>, and operation receiver <NUM>, compared with projection device <NUM> according to the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>. Data processor <NUM>, receiver <NUM>, display <NUM>, and operation receiver <NUM> each have the same functions as those in the embodiment. Moreover, projection device <NUM> does not have communicator <NUM>. Storage <NUM> of projection device <NUM> stores design data and drawing data.

In this variation, worker <NUM> does not have terminal device <NUM>. In this case, the end of work will be determined, for example, based on a result captured by sensing unit 22b of distance measurer <NUM> or a camera. Specifically, capturing images of worker <NUM> makes it is possible to determine actions of worker <NUM> and the end of work at a work spot. For example, if worker <NUM> performs marking and when finishing of marking at a work spot can be detected, this can be considered as having received an instruction indicating the end of the work. With this, projection device <NUM> can project a drawing onto a next work spot.

As described above, projection device <NUM> according to the present variation is a projection device that projects drawings <NUM> individually onto a plurality of work spots in work site <NUM>. Projection device <NUM> includes driver <NUM> that changes an orientation of projection device <NUM>. When drawings <NUM> are individually projected onto a first work spot and a second work spot in a stated sequence, and the second work spot is outside projection angle <NUM> that is projectable by projection device <NUM>, driver <NUM> changes the orientation of projection device <NUM> to include the second work spot within projection angle <NUM> after work at the first work spot is finished. The first work spot and the second work spot are included in the plurality of work spots.

With this, it is not necessary to perform communication between data processing device <NUM> and terminal device <NUM>. Only placing projection device <NUM> allows worker <NUM> to work efficiently, and reduce a construction period and burdens on workers.

The projection system, projection device, and projection method according to one or more aspects of the present invention have been described on the basis of the embodiment and its variations, but the present invention should not be construed to limit to the embodiment.

For example, a sequence of work may be input via terminal device <NUM>. Specifically, display <NUM> of terminal device <NUM> may display image for input <NUM>, and a sequence of work may be selected via operation receiver <NUM>.

In addition, the method of communication between the devices described in the above embodiment may be any communication method without limitation. When wireless communication is performed between the devices, the wireless communication system (communication standard) is, for example, Near Field Communication, such as ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or a wireless local area network (LAN). Alternatively, the wireless communication system (communication standard) may be communication over Wide Area Network, such as the Internet. In addition, wired communication may be performed between the devices instead of wireless communication. Specifically, wired communication is communication using Power Line Communication (PLC) or wired LAN.

Moreover, in the above embodiment, a process performed by a particular processor may be performed by another processor. Moreover, the sequence of processes may be changed, or processes may be performed in parallel. Moreover, distribution of the structural components included in the projection system to multiple devices is an example. For example, structural components included one device may be included in another device. Moreover, the projection system may also be achieved as a single device.

For example, the processes described in the embodiment may be achieved by centralized processing by a single device (system), or by decentralized processing by multiple devices. Moreover, the processor that executes the above program may be one processor or multiple processors. In other words, centralized processing may be performed, or distributed processing may be performed.

In addition, in the above embodiment, all or part of the structural components, such as the controllers, may include dedicated hardware, or may be achieved by executing an appropriate software program for each structural component. Each structural component may be achieved by a program executor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a processor, reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or semiconductor memory.

In addition, the structural components, such as the controllers may include one or more electronic circuits. One or more electronic circuits may be either general-purpose circuits or dedicated circuits.

One or more electronic circuits may include, for example, a semiconductor device, an integrated circuit (IC) or large scale integration (LSI). An IC or LSI may be integrated into a single chip or multiple chips. Due to a difference in the degree of integration, the electronic circuit referred here to as an IC or LSI may be referred to as a system LSI, very large scale integration (VLSI), or ultra large scale integration (ULSI). Furthermore, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) which is programmable after manufacturing of the LSI can be used for the same purposes.

In addition, the general or specific aspects of the present invention may be achieved by a system, a device, a method, an integrated circuit or a computer program. Alternatively, these may be achieved using a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as an optical disk, HDD, or semiconductor memory storing the computer program. Furthermore, these may be achieved using any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media.

Claim 1:
A projection system (<NUM>), comprising:
a projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>) that is configured to project drawings (<NUM>) individually onto a plurality of work spots (<NUM>-<NUM>) in a construction site (<NUM>) based on design data showing a size and a shape of the construction site (<NUM>), wherein, in the design data, each of the plurality of work spots (<NUM>-<NUM>) is associated with a corresponding drawing to be projected; and
a data processor (<NUM>) that is configured to specify a placing position and an orientation of the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the design data after the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>) is placed in the construction site (<NUM>), wherein
the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>) includes a driver (<NUM>) that is configured to change the orientation of the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>), and
when drawings (<NUM>) are individually projected onto a first work spot and a second work spot in a stated sequence, and the second work spot is outside a projection angle (<NUM>) that is projectable by the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>), the driver (<NUM>) is configured to change the orientation of the projection device (<NUM>, <NUM>) to include the second work spot within the projection angle (<NUM>) after work at the first work spot is finished, the first work spot and the second work spot being included in the plurality of work spots (<NUM>-<NUM>).