Contour Table Instructional Laser Device for Improving Modeling and 3D Visualization Skills of Students of Architectural and Civil Design
Subtitle: Apparatus and method for showing contour lines in modeling
Project Leader: Thad Heckman
Unit: College of Applied Sciences and Arts, School of Architecture
Executive Summary:
The Contour Table Instructional Laser Device is a portable architectural instruction device. When used in a classroom, it has been shown to increase students' understanding of difficult modeling concepts and to increase their capability for visualizing three-dimensional forms. Architecture is a growing and competitive field, and the device has potential for many more advanced applications, including civil engineering, land surveying, cartography, and artistic studies of shades and shadows. [In-depth description and photographs.]
Intellectual Property Status:
U.S. Patent No. 6,930,784, issued August 16, 2005. Technology is available to license.
Potential Commercial Uses:
Applications include instructional devices and materials, and architectural design and modeling use. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Employment of architects is expected to grow by 18% between 2006 and 2016," and "opportunities will be best for those architects who are able to distinguish themselves with their creativity." One hundred fourteen schools of architecture that have degree programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board as well as other non-accredited programs will presumably be competing to offer students the best in training programs. Professional land use studies may also be applicable.
Benefits/Competitive Advantages:
The Contour Table was created to address the sometimes difficult aspects of reading, understanding and ultimately "feeling" the shape descriptions of contour topography. This is particularly important as it relates to architectural and civil design and manipulation of landforms at virtually all student levels, particularly secondary through university. This goes directly to the individual's intellectual model building capabilities.
Brief Description:
This invention utilizes lasers to provide easy and instant two-dimensional representations of complicated three-dimensional shapes and surfaces. The Contour Table allows an instructor and students to interactively model in three dimensions using a variety of mediums, or "stand alone" artifacts, in conjunction with the ability to instantly transform the model into its two dimensional graphic representation. The device also allows for grid and contour plotting within the classroom using actual surveying instruments, or a builder's level with a miniature "scale" surveyor's rod in a tabletop application. [In-depth description and photographs.]
Keywords:
Contour table, contour lines, architectural modeling, architecture instruction, geometric modeling, visualizing three-dimensional forms, architectural design, civil engineering, land surveying, cartography, mathematical instruction, surface topology, artistic studies, shades and shadows
Contact:
Jeff Myers, Senior Technology Transfer Specialist, (618) 453-4543, fax: (618) 453-8038