CA2680777A1 - Apparatus for creating a water formed image - Google Patents
Apparatus for creating a water formed image Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2680777A1 CA2680777A1 CA002680777A CA2680777A CA2680777A1 CA 2680777 A1 CA2680777 A1 CA 2680777A1 CA 002680777 A CA002680777 A CA 002680777A CA 2680777 A CA2680777 A CA 2680777A CA 2680777 A1 CA2680777 A1 CA 2680777A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- water
- falling
- nozzles
- control means
- display head
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims abstract description 195
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000010919 Copernicia prunifera Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 244000180278 Copernicia prunifera Species 0.000 claims 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000001993 wax Substances 0.000 description 2
- 206010034701 Peroneal nerve palsy Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012937 correction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012153 distilled water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008020 evaporation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001360 synchronised effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B17/00—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F19/00—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B17/00—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups
- B05B17/08—Fountains
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B17/00—Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by the preceding groups
- B05B17/08—Fountains
- B05B17/085—Fountains designed to produce sheets or curtains of liquid, e.g. water walls
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D7/00—Control of flow
- G05D7/06—Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
- G05D7/0617—Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means specially adapted for fluid materials
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D7/00—Control of flow
- G05D7/06—Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
- G05D7/0617—Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means specially adapted for fluid materials
- G05D7/0623—Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means specially adapted for fluid materials characterised by the set value given to the control element
Abstract
A apparatus for showcasing falling water images, text and other types of water effects that includes a control means, a pump means that feeds water i nto a elevated water display head having a plurality of nozzles that alterna tes at a high speed from an open position to a closed position controlled by solenoids. The modulation of falling water droplets forms a continuous matr ix of horizontal water dots that produce scrolling water-formed images..
Description
Title: APPARATUS FOR CREATING A WATER FORMED IMAGE
Field of the Invention This invention relates to an apparatus for pixelating water droplets. In particular, this invention relates to an apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image.
Background and Description of the Prior Art It is known to create water screens using a falling sheet of water or closely spaced falling water droplets on to which images are projected. Difficulties have been encountered providing water droplets that hold their shape as they fall.
Consequently, high resolution images on projection water screens are not obtainable as the water droplets do not enable the projection of precise images.
In the entertainment industry, where images are required to be of a sufficient size and resolution for an audience to appreciate the image formed, there is a need for a apparatus that allows for higher installation heights and sharper consistent image quality, as well as a screen that allows viewers to differentiate between the pixilation of droplets to create an image with a high resolution that can be in varying dimensions.
Summary of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to provide a solution to the problem of water droplets losing their optimal shape while being dispensed from nozzles at varying heights.
In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image. The apparatus comprises a water management system for providing, controlling and maintaining a closed-loop pressurized water supply, an elevated water display head having a plurality of spaced apart nozzles in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid for each nozzle and a control means for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the fallinq water droplets through each solenoid and nozzle. The water droplets falling from the plurality of nozzles form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus capable of producing pixelated falling water droplets to create a graphical image or a falling sheet of water onto which an image may be projected.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides nozzles for forming falling water droplets that retain their shape
Field of the Invention This invention relates to an apparatus for pixelating water droplets. In particular, this invention relates to an apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image.
Background and Description of the Prior Art It is known to create water screens using a falling sheet of water or closely spaced falling water droplets on to which images are projected. Difficulties have been encountered providing water droplets that hold their shape as they fall.
Consequently, high resolution images on projection water screens are not obtainable as the water droplets do not enable the projection of precise images.
In the entertainment industry, where images are required to be of a sufficient size and resolution for an audience to appreciate the image formed, there is a need for a apparatus that allows for higher installation heights and sharper consistent image quality, as well as a screen that allows viewers to differentiate between the pixilation of droplets to create an image with a high resolution that can be in varying dimensions.
Summary of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to provide a solution to the problem of water droplets losing their optimal shape while being dispensed from nozzles at varying heights.
In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image. The apparatus comprises a water management system for providing, controlling and maintaining a closed-loop pressurized water supply, an elevated water display head having a plurality of spaced apart nozzles in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid for each nozzle and a control means for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the fallinq water droplets through each solenoid and nozzle. The water droplets falling from the plurality of nozzles form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus capable of producing pixelated falling water droplets to create a graphical image or a falling sheet of water onto which an image may be projected.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides nozzles for forming falling water droplets that retain their shape
2 as they fall. The nozzles have an inlet and a small outlet orifice and a hourglass shaped passageway in cross-section from inlet to outlet orifice. In a preferred embodiment, the hourglass shaped passageway is coated to provide superior flow dynamics.
Brief Description of Drawings In drawings which illustrate by way of example only one embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image according to the present invention having a water management system and a plurality of elevated water display heads.
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown with the inlet into the water reservoir.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown with the solenoids.
Brief Description of Drawings In drawings which illustrate by way of example only one embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image according to the present invention having a water management system and a plurality of elevated water display heads.
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown with the inlet into the water reservoir.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown with the solenoids.
3 FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of a nozzle used in the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown with the hourglass shaped passageway.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart of the control means of Figure 1 shown with the communications to the droplet controllers.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1. shown with the falling sheet of water.
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown creating a three-dimensional image.
Similar references are used in different figures to denote similar components.
Detailed Description In an embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally at 10, the various components of the apparatus are shown, namely the elevated water display head shown generally at 20, the water reservoir 21, the plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22, the row of high speed solenoids for each nozzle shown generally at 23, the water basin 30, the water conduit 40, the pump means 50, and the control means shown generally at 60.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart of the control means of Figure 1 shown with the communications to the droplet controllers.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1. shown with the falling sheet of water.
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the elevated water display head of Figure 1 shown creating a three-dimensional image.
Similar references are used in different figures to denote similar components.
Detailed Description In an embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally at 10, the various components of the apparatus are shown, namely the elevated water display head shown generally at 20, the water reservoir 21, the plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22, the row of high speed solenoids for each nozzle shown generally at 23, the water basin 30, the water conduit 40, the pump means 50, and the control means shown generally at 60.
4 The present invention provides an apparatus for creating a water droplet pixelated image shown generally at 70 comprising a elevated water display head 20 having a water reservoir 21, a plurality of spaced apax-t nozzles 22 set upon a nozzle plate 27 adapted to dispense water from said water reservoir 21 between an on position to an off position.
In the elevated water display head 20, there is also a row of solenoids 23 to control the nozzles 22 between an on position and an off position, as shown more generally in Figure 5, as described below.
The apparatus also has a water basin 30 that is adapted to receive water droplets dispensed from the nozzles 22, as well as a water conduit 40 which has a receiving end 41 and a water inlet 42. The receiving end 41 is attached to the water basin 30 to receive water, and the water inlet 42 has a valve 43 is attached to the water reservoir 21 within the elevated water display head 20. Through the action of the pump means 50, the water can circulate from the water basin 30 into the receiving end 41 of the water conduit 40, up towards the disposing end 42 of the water conduit 40, and out into the water reservoir 21. There ax-e elevated water display head valves 28 present between the water reservoir 21 and the solenoids 23 to control the flow of water on or off towards the nozzles 22. Sufficient horsepower must be present in the pump means 50 so as to recirculate water within the apparatus to maintain adequat.e flow dynamics.
The storage of water must enable a constant supply of water across the solenoids 23 in the elevated water display head 20. There is a 3:1 ratio water between t:he water basin 30 and the water reservoir 21 in the elevated water display head 20. About 3 gallons of water or 4 to 6 inches of column pressure should be present in the water reservoir 21 to ensure that there is a consistent water image formed when the water is dropped from the nozzles 22.
The apparatus 10 enables water to be circulated within the water conduit 40 from the receiving end 41 to the water inlet 42. There is a control means 60 to control the solenoids 23, which sends signals to a sensor 62, so that water dropped from the plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22 in the on position forms a pixelated image 70 of water droplets before reaching the water basin 30.
The size of the water basin 30 will depend on the splashing distance of water at the base of the apparatus.
As shown in Figure 5, each nozzle 22 has an inlet orifice 24, a hourglass shaped passageway 25 and a outlet orifice 26, where the hourglass shaped passageway 25 has a narrower diameter in the mid section as compared to the inlet 24 and outlet orifices 26. When dispensing water through the nozzles, the droplets should be shaped as a tear drop for the greatest period of time in order to provide a consistent pixelated image across the water screen. By shaping the passageway 25 as an hourglass, the water droplets dispensed from the outlet orifice 26 can retain an hourglass shape for as long as possible, including lengths of 10 feet or more, and even to heights of 30 feet. Also, by shaping the passageway 25 as an hourglass, a columnated effect of the water dispensing that is important in forming the water screen is retained for as long as possible as it manually prevents the clumping of water that results from hydrophilic forces that attract water molecules together.
Waxes, such as Teflon and Caranuba wax, can be used on the inner and outer surfaces of the passageway 25 to further prevent the hydrophilic forces of the water. Nozzles 22 that are used in precise medical instrumentation may be used in conjunction with high speed solenoids 23 to produce a high resolution pixelated image on the water screen 70.
The nozzles 22 are individually controlled and are high speed. The nozzles 22 are spaced apart from one another, such as being spaced 0.4 inches apart. A control means 70, such as a computer, controls the operation of the row of solenoids 23 which in turn control the opening and closing of the nozzles 22 in a rapid fashion, thereby producing scrolling water-formed images on the water screen 70 when water is dispensed from the nozzles 22. The nozzles 22 can be opened and closed by the solenoids 23 as fast as 200 times per second. This modulation of dispensing water droplets forms a continuous matrix of hori_zontal water dots that is analogous to the operation of a dot matrix printer.
The path length from each solenoid to the nozzle is the same and the timing is controlled to accommodate different path lengths.
As seen in Figure 8, the high speed solenoids 23 can be oriented in different rows so as to allow for the formation of three-dimensional images. Although the rows of solenoids 23 can be offset, the elevated water display head 20 can be placed in modules, such as two foot modules, which can be interconnected side to side to form lengths up to forty eight feet, and including lerigths of twelve, twenty four, and thirty six feet. In certain embodiments, there is a clearance of 12 feet on both sides of the graphical water screen. In some embodiments, the elevated water display head 20 is designed to be suspended of f a trussing system 80. Hardware may be included with the present invention for hanging water screen structure off any pipe, such as a two inch diameter pipe.
In Figure 6, a flowchart of the operation of the of the apparatus 10 via the control means 60 is shown, namely the main computer 61, the communication means 62, droplet controller 63 and second droplet controller 64.
The control means 60 provides an automated mechanism for translating common graphics files into water displayable droplet images. The control means 60 has a mechanism to allow users, particularly those in the events and/or lighting field, to trigger water graphical effects or program complete water graphical shows through a computer or console applications thereby allowing for wider scale adaptation of the graphical water screen system.
Using the present invention, graphical file images can be translated to a form that is displayable on the water screen 70. A special algorithm which takes common images, including jpg, gif, bmp and png files, may be used in conjunction with the control means 60. For example, a special algorithm may take multi-coloured graphics files with various pixel formats and translate them to homogeneous pixel-formatted monochrome file formats displayable as water graphical images through the control means 60.
Similar to broadcasting technology, there is a requirement to synchronize the pixilated water images to other equipment like video cameras, lighting equipment and other application software. In certain embodiments, such as some commercial applications, the repeatability factor is important and a special apparatus is required to synchronize pressurized water graphical intages with a time source. As part of an algorithm, the height of fall of water and the terminal velocity of water may be two aspects that are taken into account and processed through the control means 60.
In one embodiment of the present invention having a water free fall rate of 1 second for a 30 foot drop and a response time of 5 milliseconds for electronic solenoid values, one can expect 200 cycles from each value per second and would provide a vertical resolution of about 200 pixels.
The resolution of the water screen 70 is dependent on the width of the water screen. A 12ft water screen would, in theory, provide a horizontal resolution of 360 pixels.
As with video graphics technology, the wider or larger the display surface, the more intense the processor power requirements will be needed to maintain visual integrity and functionality. For larger graphical water screens, the challenges are similar. The present inve:ntion provides a parallel processing and parallel control technique applied to the specific technology requirements of a graphical water screen.
Parallel processing and solenoid control are present either separately or individually to provide extra-wide, even and consistent water displays. Multiple central processing units (CPUs) running over an Ethernet from serial to parallel to serial may be used for each row of solenoids 23.
Various effects are possible through the use of the present invention. Practically any image, including those that can be scanned using a flat bed scanner, can be converted for display using the water screen. In certain embodiments, the main computer 61 will convert the color information into a monochrome image. Images can be queued for back to back display.
Text messages are possible with a variety of fonts. The width of the messages may depend on font sizes and required legibility.
Through the control means 60, various water effects may also be possible, including tornado, barber effects and slotted cylinders.
The present invention may be controlled by software, including Windows XP Operating System and the Control program is a user-friendly graphical interface. The user can use the software to design, create and save complete synchronized shows on the system. The present invention is capable of interfacing various codes, including to SMPTE or MIDI time codes, and can also interface to lighting consoles, including DMX-compatible lighting consoles, which allows users to allow lighting designers use the apparatus 10.
This invention further provides a dual--head system, as shown in Figure 7, having a falling sheet of water 110 at the rear and a graphical water screen 70 in the front which can allow users to either superimpose images or have the flexibility of applying one form of projection screen or another in a given show. The falling sheet of water 110 is sourced by a constant flow to the second water reservoir 21a in parallel to the water reservoir 21.
Closed-loop and open loop water systems may be used with the present invention. In certain embodiments, a water supply of 90 gallons is required to fill the closed loop water re-circulation system and about 5 gallons of distilled water per day needs to be injected into the system to account for evaporation.
Certain embodiments of the present system may use a water feed system that controls and maintain a closed-loop pressurized water circulation system across the apparatus that is coupled to an open system (using main city water or similar). By coupling the apparatus to a water feed system, near-instantaneous corrections of the "desired"
conditions of the closed-loop water system can be made.
As shown in Figure 5, an outlet 100 with an overflow valve 101 may also be attached to the water reservoir 21 as a safety feature.
A power source is needed to operate the apparatus. For instance, certain embodiments of the present invention can be powered using a single phase 120-205 VAC power source with the apparatus requiring 2400 Watts of power.
A safety feature of the present invention is the use a vacuum source with the apparatus 10 to apply a negative pressure to prevent water from dripping from nozzles 22 wherein the operating solenoid 23 is intended to be closed.
When the system is not in use and the solenoids 23 are directing the nozzles 22 not to dispense water, the anti-drip negative pressure vacuum system, as shown in the vacuum line 90 in Figure 7 is connected to the elevated water display head 21. The vacuum line 90 can be activated to prevent water from being inadvertently released from the nozzles 22.
The present invention has an operating temperature range of about +10 to +50 degrees Celsius.
The present invention also comprises a method for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image. The water management system provides, controls and maintains a closed-loop pressurized water supply, the elevated water display head 20 has a plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22 in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid 23 for each nozzle 22 and a control means 60 for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the falling water droplets through each solenoid 23 and nozzle 22. The control means 60 controls the formation of water droplets falling from each of said plurality of nozzles to form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
Numerous modifications, variations, and adaptations may be made to the particular embodiments of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.
In the elevated water display head 20, there is also a row of solenoids 23 to control the nozzles 22 between an on position and an off position, as shown more generally in Figure 5, as described below.
The apparatus also has a water basin 30 that is adapted to receive water droplets dispensed from the nozzles 22, as well as a water conduit 40 which has a receiving end 41 and a water inlet 42. The receiving end 41 is attached to the water basin 30 to receive water, and the water inlet 42 has a valve 43 is attached to the water reservoir 21 within the elevated water display head 20. Through the action of the pump means 50, the water can circulate from the water basin 30 into the receiving end 41 of the water conduit 40, up towards the disposing end 42 of the water conduit 40, and out into the water reservoir 21. There ax-e elevated water display head valves 28 present between the water reservoir 21 and the solenoids 23 to control the flow of water on or off towards the nozzles 22. Sufficient horsepower must be present in the pump means 50 so as to recirculate water within the apparatus to maintain adequat.e flow dynamics.
The storage of water must enable a constant supply of water across the solenoids 23 in the elevated water display head 20. There is a 3:1 ratio water between t:he water basin 30 and the water reservoir 21 in the elevated water display head 20. About 3 gallons of water or 4 to 6 inches of column pressure should be present in the water reservoir 21 to ensure that there is a consistent water image formed when the water is dropped from the nozzles 22.
The apparatus 10 enables water to be circulated within the water conduit 40 from the receiving end 41 to the water inlet 42. There is a control means 60 to control the solenoids 23, which sends signals to a sensor 62, so that water dropped from the plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22 in the on position forms a pixelated image 70 of water droplets before reaching the water basin 30.
The size of the water basin 30 will depend on the splashing distance of water at the base of the apparatus.
As shown in Figure 5, each nozzle 22 has an inlet orifice 24, a hourglass shaped passageway 25 and a outlet orifice 26, where the hourglass shaped passageway 25 has a narrower diameter in the mid section as compared to the inlet 24 and outlet orifices 26. When dispensing water through the nozzles, the droplets should be shaped as a tear drop for the greatest period of time in order to provide a consistent pixelated image across the water screen. By shaping the passageway 25 as an hourglass, the water droplets dispensed from the outlet orifice 26 can retain an hourglass shape for as long as possible, including lengths of 10 feet or more, and even to heights of 30 feet. Also, by shaping the passageway 25 as an hourglass, a columnated effect of the water dispensing that is important in forming the water screen is retained for as long as possible as it manually prevents the clumping of water that results from hydrophilic forces that attract water molecules together.
Waxes, such as Teflon and Caranuba wax, can be used on the inner and outer surfaces of the passageway 25 to further prevent the hydrophilic forces of the water. Nozzles 22 that are used in precise medical instrumentation may be used in conjunction with high speed solenoids 23 to produce a high resolution pixelated image on the water screen 70.
The nozzles 22 are individually controlled and are high speed. The nozzles 22 are spaced apart from one another, such as being spaced 0.4 inches apart. A control means 70, such as a computer, controls the operation of the row of solenoids 23 which in turn control the opening and closing of the nozzles 22 in a rapid fashion, thereby producing scrolling water-formed images on the water screen 70 when water is dispensed from the nozzles 22. The nozzles 22 can be opened and closed by the solenoids 23 as fast as 200 times per second. This modulation of dispensing water droplets forms a continuous matrix of hori_zontal water dots that is analogous to the operation of a dot matrix printer.
The path length from each solenoid to the nozzle is the same and the timing is controlled to accommodate different path lengths.
As seen in Figure 8, the high speed solenoids 23 can be oriented in different rows so as to allow for the formation of three-dimensional images. Although the rows of solenoids 23 can be offset, the elevated water display head 20 can be placed in modules, such as two foot modules, which can be interconnected side to side to form lengths up to forty eight feet, and including lerigths of twelve, twenty four, and thirty six feet. In certain embodiments, there is a clearance of 12 feet on both sides of the graphical water screen. In some embodiments, the elevated water display head 20 is designed to be suspended of f a trussing system 80. Hardware may be included with the present invention for hanging water screen structure off any pipe, such as a two inch diameter pipe.
In Figure 6, a flowchart of the operation of the of the apparatus 10 via the control means 60 is shown, namely the main computer 61, the communication means 62, droplet controller 63 and second droplet controller 64.
The control means 60 provides an automated mechanism for translating common graphics files into water displayable droplet images. The control means 60 has a mechanism to allow users, particularly those in the events and/or lighting field, to trigger water graphical effects or program complete water graphical shows through a computer or console applications thereby allowing for wider scale adaptation of the graphical water screen system.
Using the present invention, graphical file images can be translated to a form that is displayable on the water screen 70. A special algorithm which takes common images, including jpg, gif, bmp and png files, may be used in conjunction with the control means 60. For example, a special algorithm may take multi-coloured graphics files with various pixel formats and translate them to homogeneous pixel-formatted monochrome file formats displayable as water graphical images through the control means 60.
Similar to broadcasting technology, there is a requirement to synchronize the pixilated water images to other equipment like video cameras, lighting equipment and other application software. In certain embodiments, such as some commercial applications, the repeatability factor is important and a special apparatus is required to synchronize pressurized water graphical intages with a time source. As part of an algorithm, the height of fall of water and the terminal velocity of water may be two aspects that are taken into account and processed through the control means 60.
In one embodiment of the present invention having a water free fall rate of 1 second for a 30 foot drop and a response time of 5 milliseconds for electronic solenoid values, one can expect 200 cycles from each value per second and would provide a vertical resolution of about 200 pixels.
The resolution of the water screen 70 is dependent on the width of the water screen. A 12ft water screen would, in theory, provide a horizontal resolution of 360 pixels.
As with video graphics technology, the wider or larger the display surface, the more intense the processor power requirements will be needed to maintain visual integrity and functionality. For larger graphical water screens, the challenges are similar. The present inve:ntion provides a parallel processing and parallel control technique applied to the specific technology requirements of a graphical water screen.
Parallel processing and solenoid control are present either separately or individually to provide extra-wide, even and consistent water displays. Multiple central processing units (CPUs) running over an Ethernet from serial to parallel to serial may be used for each row of solenoids 23.
Various effects are possible through the use of the present invention. Practically any image, including those that can be scanned using a flat bed scanner, can be converted for display using the water screen. In certain embodiments, the main computer 61 will convert the color information into a monochrome image. Images can be queued for back to back display.
Text messages are possible with a variety of fonts. The width of the messages may depend on font sizes and required legibility.
Through the control means 60, various water effects may also be possible, including tornado, barber effects and slotted cylinders.
The present invention may be controlled by software, including Windows XP Operating System and the Control program is a user-friendly graphical interface. The user can use the software to design, create and save complete synchronized shows on the system. The present invention is capable of interfacing various codes, including to SMPTE or MIDI time codes, and can also interface to lighting consoles, including DMX-compatible lighting consoles, which allows users to allow lighting designers use the apparatus 10.
This invention further provides a dual--head system, as shown in Figure 7, having a falling sheet of water 110 at the rear and a graphical water screen 70 in the front which can allow users to either superimpose images or have the flexibility of applying one form of projection screen or another in a given show. The falling sheet of water 110 is sourced by a constant flow to the second water reservoir 21a in parallel to the water reservoir 21.
Closed-loop and open loop water systems may be used with the present invention. In certain embodiments, a water supply of 90 gallons is required to fill the closed loop water re-circulation system and about 5 gallons of distilled water per day needs to be injected into the system to account for evaporation.
Certain embodiments of the present system may use a water feed system that controls and maintain a closed-loop pressurized water circulation system across the apparatus that is coupled to an open system (using main city water or similar). By coupling the apparatus to a water feed system, near-instantaneous corrections of the "desired"
conditions of the closed-loop water system can be made.
As shown in Figure 5, an outlet 100 with an overflow valve 101 may also be attached to the water reservoir 21 as a safety feature.
A power source is needed to operate the apparatus. For instance, certain embodiments of the present invention can be powered using a single phase 120-205 VAC power source with the apparatus requiring 2400 Watts of power.
A safety feature of the present invention is the use a vacuum source with the apparatus 10 to apply a negative pressure to prevent water from dripping from nozzles 22 wherein the operating solenoid 23 is intended to be closed.
When the system is not in use and the solenoids 23 are directing the nozzles 22 not to dispense water, the anti-drip negative pressure vacuum system, as shown in the vacuum line 90 in Figure 7 is connected to the elevated water display head 21. The vacuum line 90 can be activated to prevent water from being inadvertently released from the nozzles 22.
The present invention has an operating temperature range of about +10 to +50 degrees Celsius.
The present invention also comprises a method for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image. The water management system provides, controls and maintains a closed-loop pressurized water supply, the elevated water display head 20 has a plurality of spaced apart nozzles 22 in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid 23 for each nozzle 22 and a control means 60 for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the falling water droplets through each solenoid 23 and nozzle 22. The control means 60 controls the formation of water droplets falling from each of said plurality of nozzles to form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
Numerous modifications, variations, and adaptations may be made to the particular embodiments of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.
Claims (18)
1. An apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image comprising a water management system for providing, controlling and maintaining a closed-loop pressurized water supply, an elevated water display head having a plurality of spaced apart nozzles in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid for each nozzle and a control means for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the falling water droplets through each solenoid and nozzle, whereby water droplets falling from said plurality of nozzles form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said each of nozzles having an inlet and a small outlet orifice and a hourglass shaped passageway in cross-section from inlet to outlet orifice.
3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the hourglass shaped passageway is coated to provide superior flow dynamics.
4. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the hourglass shaped passageway is coated with Carnauba or Teflon.
5. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the water display head has a water reservoir above said solenoids, a water inlet and a water outlet connected to said solenoids and sensors connected to said control means to monitor and maintain the water level in said water reservoir.
6. Apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the water management system comprises a catch basin for collecting the falling water droplets after falling, a water conduit between said catch basin and the inlet to the water reservoir on said elevated water display head and pump means to circulate the water from the catch basin to the water reservoir through the water conduit.
7. Apparatus according to claims 5 or 6 wherein a vacuum line is connected to the water reservoir to prevent water leaking through the solenoids and nozzles when the water reservoir is placed under negative pressure.
8. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein a plurality of elevated water display heads are provided to form a wide graphical image, wherein each water display head produces a portion of the wide graphical image and the control means maintains equal water pressure and synchronizes the operation of the solenoids in each water display head to maintain the visual integrity of the wide graphical image.
9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the water management system, control means and water display head are capable of producing pixelated falling water droplets to create a graphical image or a falling sheet of water onto which an image may be projected.
10. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein said nozzles are spaced 0.4 inches apart.
11. Apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the control means is capable of opening and closing the solenoids and nozzles up to 200 times per second.
12. Apparatus according to claim 9 wherein water display head contains a second water reservoir in parallel to said solenoids and plurality of nozzles for producing a falling sheet of water and the water management system and control means provides a constant flow of water to said second water reservoir.
13. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the water display head has a plurality of rows of spaced apart nozzles and a high speed solenoid for each nozzle whereby the water droplets falling from said plurality of rows of spaced apart nozzles form a three dimensional graphical image.
14. Apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the path length from each solenoid to the nozzle is the same.
15. Apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the timing is controlled to accommodate different path lengths.
16. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein the water droplets fall from heights of 10 feet or more.
17. A method for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image comprising providing a water management system for providing, controlling and maintaining a closed-loop pressurized water supply, an elevated water display head having a plurality of spaced apart nozzles in one or more rows and a high speed solenoid for each nozzle and a control means for controlling the water supply and for controlling the formation of the falling water droplets through each solenoid and nozzle, whereby the control means controls the formation of water droplets falling from each of said plurality of nozzles to form a graphical image that retains its shape as it falls.
18
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2680777A CA2680777C (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2008-03-12 | Apparatus for creating a water formed image |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002581459A CA2581459A1 (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2007-03-12 | Water screen apparatus |
| CA2,581,459 | 2007-03-12 | ||
| PCT/CA2008/000467 WO2008110000A1 (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2008-03-12 | Apparatus for creating a water formed image |
| CA2680777A CA2680777C (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2008-03-12 | Apparatus for creating a water formed image |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2680777A1 true CA2680777A1 (en) | 2008-09-18 |
| CA2680777C CA2680777C (en) | 2016-10-25 |
Family
ID=39747206
Family Applications (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002581459A Abandoned CA2581459A1 (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2007-03-12 | Water screen apparatus |
| CA2680777A Active CA2680777C (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2008-03-12 | Apparatus for creating a water formed image |
Family Applications Before (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002581459A Abandoned CA2581459A1 (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2007-03-12 | Water screen apparatus |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US8556190B2 (en) |
| CA (2) | CA2581459A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2460791B (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2008110000A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9199264B2 (en) | 2007-03-12 | 2015-12-01 | Pyrotek Special Effects, Inc. | Apparatus for creating a water formed image |
| US9690442B2 (en) * | 2008-10-17 | 2017-06-27 | Adobe Systems Incorporated | Generating customized effects for image presentation |
| US20130264396A1 (en) * | 2012-04-06 | 2013-10-10 | Bryan Roe | Multidimensional effects apparatus and methods |
| CN102749950B (en) * | 2012-07-17 | 2014-08-20 | 镇江智拓智能科技发展有限公司 | Method and device for controlling large-scale digital water screen |
| CN103077669B (en) * | 2013-01-04 | 2015-05-20 | 薛婧贤 | System and method for displaying water drop array |
| US9223192B1 (en) | 2014-03-05 | 2015-12-29 | Bot & Dolly, Llc | Generating light displays using drops of a fluid |
| CN104795007B (en) * | 2015-04-01 | 2017-06-30 | 浙江工业大学 | The control device of water curtain image is shown based on black and white picture |
| US11938502B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2024-03-26 | Wet | Pixelated water display and design tools therefor |
| CN108062912A (en) * | 2016-11-08 | 2018-05-22 | 合肥磐石自动化科技有限公司 | A kind of droplet polymerize display device |
| FR3095135B1 (en) * | 2019-04-19 | 2021-05-14 | Euro Mediterraneenne De Tourisme Residentiel Et De Services | Water jet kit for approval |
| US11862052B2 (en) * | 2021-04-02 | 2024-01-02 | Ken-Ming Li | Water dance device with display screen effect |
Family Cites Families (18)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3560641A (en) | 1968-10-18 | 1971-02-02 | Mead Corp | Image construction system using multiple arrays of drop generators |
| JPS4812264B1 (en) * | 1969-05-24 | 1973-04-19 | ||
| JPS545347B1 (en) * | 1969-08-30 | 1979-03-15 | ||
| US4294406A (en) * | 1978-11-14 | 1981-10-13 | Pevnick Stephen H | Program controllable free falling water drop fountain |
| CA1326778C (en) | 1988-04-14 | 1994-02-08 | Toshimitsu Araki | Screen forming apparatus |
| US5445322A (en) | 1990-07-30 | 1995-08-29 | Aquatique U.S.A. | Apparatus for projecting water to form an insubstantial screen for receiving images |
| US5265802A (en) | 1992-10-02 | 1993-11-30 | Wm. Hobbs, Ltd. | Fluid projection screen system |
| US5368228A (en) | 1993-04-20 | 1994-11-29 | The Walt Disney Company | Method and apparatus for forming a fluid projection screen |
| US5340024A (en) * | 1993-10-27 | 1994-08-23 | Mark Fuller | Numerically controlled water jet display pool |
| FR2750224B1 (en) * | 1996-06-21 | 1998-08-14 | Aquatique Show International | DEVICE FOR FORMING A WATER SCREEN CAPABLE OF CONSTITUTING AN IMAGE PROJECTION SCREEN |
| US6127658A (en) * | 1998-08-04 | 2000-10-03 | Steag C.V.D. Systems, Ltd. | Wafer heating apparatus and method with radiation absorptive peripheral barrier blocking stray radiation |
| US6131819A (en) * | 1998-10-15 | 2000-10-17 | Wet Enterprises, Inc. | Decorative illuminated water display |
| US6702687B1 (en) | 2000-06-23 | 2004-03-09 | Nbgs International, Inc. | Controller system for water amusement devices |
| US6644768B2 (en) | 2000-12-04 | 2003-11-11 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Three- and two-dimensional images formed by suspended or transitory colorant in a volume |
| FI117810B (en) | 2001-06-18 | 2007-02-28 | Karri Palovuori | Pulse-based hardware for projecting stereo or multichannel images |
| US6533190B1 (en) * | 2001-08-27 | 2003-03-18 | Yu-Tzu Wang | Sprayer having 3 dimensional water screen |
| US6557777B1 (en) * | 2002-04-15 | 2003-05-06 | Pevnick Design, Inc. | Water supply method and apparatus for a fountain |
| US20070125871A1 (en) * | 2005-11-21 | 2007-06-07 | The Board Of Regents Of The Nv. System Of Higher Education, On Behalf Of The University Of Nv. | Imaging system with liquid pixels |
-
2007
- 2007-03-12 CA CA002581459A patent/CA2581459A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-03-12 US US12/531,174 patent/US8556190B2/en active Active
- 2008-03-12 GB GB0917696A patent/GB2460791B/en active Active
- 2008-03-12 WO PCT/CA2008/000467 patent/WO2008110000A1/en active Application Filing
- 2008-03-12 CA CA2680777A patent/CA2680777C/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2460791A (en) | 2009-12-16 |
| US20100139134A1 (en) | 2010-06-10 |
| CA2581459A1 (en) | 2008-09-12 |
| GB0917696D0 (en) | 2009-11-25 |
| CA2680777C (en) | 2016-10-25 |
| US8556190B2 (en) | 2013-10-15 |
| GB2460791B (en) | 2011-09-07 |
| WO2008110000A1 (en) | 2008-09-18 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US8556190B2 (en) | Apparatus for creating a water formed image | |
| US9199264B2 (en) | Apparatus for creating a water formed image | |
| Barnum et al. | A multi-layered display with water drops | |
| US8899756B2 (en) | Infrared video tracking for use in projecting onto dynamic water features | |
| EP1814024A3 (en) | Projector, projection display system, and corresponding method and recording medium | |
| US5801721A (en) | Apparatus for producing an image on a first side of a substrate and a mirror image on a second side of the substrate | |
| CN204955465U (en) | Digit optical processing three -dimensional inkjet printer | |
| US20060267952A1 (en) | Interactive display table top | |
| Agócs et al. | A large scale interactive holographic display | |
| BR0009950A (en) | Process for producing an aerated confection cover, edible products, apparatus for supplying a head to cover with aerated confection liquid material, and for producing an aerated confection cover, aeration control system for controlling the aeration of a liquid, apparatus and process to produce an aerated chocolate coating on products | |
| KR20140010873A (en) | Multi-projection system comprising projection surface having non-sold material | |
| WO2004078478A2 (en) | Method and apparatus for printing on flat and non-flat objects | |
| CN102653178A (en) | Image forming apparatus and image forming method | |
| US20070125871A1 (en) | Imaging system with liquid pixels | |
| Acero et al. | Enhancement of the stability of the flow focusing technique for low-viscosity liquids | |
| JP4841351B2 (en) | Video display device | |
| JP4651085B2 (en) | Projection device | |
| US6644768B2 (en) | Three- and two-dimensional images formed by suspended or transitory colorant in a volume | |
| CN104185863A (en) | Reflective dynamic color device | |
| JP2005284258A (en) | Projection system and method | |
| KR101801745B1 (en) | Water screen | |
| US20200173619A1 (en) | Fluid display device | |
| KR101587752B1 (en) | Light-guide-plate creation method and device | |
| Ishii et al. | Electrolysis bubble display based art installations | |
| US11938502B2 (en) | Pixelated water display and design tools therefor |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20130308 |