A Patented Portable Architectural Instruction Device Available for License

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. 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. A basic prototype has been built and the "Laser Table" is presently integrated with the architectural site-planning lectures on understanding and manipulating land forms, and a more advanced model has been designed.
The technology is patented: U.S. Patent No. 6,930,784, issued August 16, 2005. The patent is available for license to a company that is interested in manufacturing and selling a proven and patented instructional device. Contact SIUC Technology Transfer at techtran@siu.edu or call (618) 453-4556, or visit http://techtransfer.siuc.edu for more information. A direct link to Thad Heckman's online invention page, with presentation slides, photos, link to patent: http://www.techtransfer.siuc.edu/techavail/heckman.html.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• siu carbondale
• southern illinois university
• technology transfer
• architecture
• technology license
• instruction