3D Image Recording Unit with Laser Tracker for Coordinate Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D image recording systems face limitations in measuring large objects due to limited recording areas, requiring multiple images from different positions and alignments, which slows down the measurement process and reduces accuracy, especially when using heavy and cumbersome 3D image acquisition units that are unsuitable for mobile or external referencing.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a 3D image recording unit that captures three-dimensional images from a single position without changing orientation, coupled with an optical laser measuring system for precise positioning in the object coordinate system, allowing for rapid and precise coordinate measurement without the need for extensive reference markings or intermediate recordings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If multiple images are recorded from different positions and alignments to measure large objects, then the measurement coverage is improved, but the measurement time and process complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement coverageVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

A laser tracker serves as an intermediary measurement device that independently tracks the positions of both the 3D image recording unit and reference markings. This external reference system mediates between multiple image recordings, enabling rapid registration of images from different positions without requiring time-consuming manual alignment or extensive overlapping recordings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If reference markings are applied to the object surface to enable coordinate measurement, then the measurement precision is improved, but the object preparation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoordinate measurement precisionVSAvoidobject preparation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser tracker system serves multiple functions: it tracks the 3D image recording unit's position, tracks reference markings on the object, and provides a unified coordinate system for all measurements. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for complex specialized referencing systems, reducing object preparation complexity while maintaining high measurement precision through the same versatile device.

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

3Measurement precision

If a heavy 3D image acquisition unit is used to ensure high measurement precision, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the mobility and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The laser tracker acts as an external intermediary that measures the position of the 3D image recording unit without requiring the unit itself to be heavy or cumbersome. By separating the measurement function (laser tracker) from the imaging function (3D camera system), the imaging unit remains lightweight and mobile while the laser tracker provides the necessary positioning precision through external tracking of reference markings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables quick and accurate coordinate measurement of non-contiguous surface sections with high precision, reducing measurement errors and allowing for compact, mobile use in challenging environments like vehicle interiors.

Implementation Method 1

an optical laser measuring system for contactless recording of the position and alignment of the 3D image recording unit in the object coordinate system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser measurement: LIDAR

Data Source

PatentEP2402710B1Method and measuring system for contactless coordinate measuring of the surface of an object
Publication Date: 2015.10.28 LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
  • EP2402710B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2402710B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2402710B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The method involves assigning three dimensional (3D) image coordinates in an image coordinate system (B) of a 3D image recording device (3) to a pixel. A position and direction of the image recording device in an object coordinate system (O) are detected by a measuring device (4a) coupled with the object coordinate system. 3D object coordinates in the object coordinate system are assigned to the pixel from acknowledgement of the image coordinates and the position and the direction of the image recording device. An independent claim is also included for a measuring system for contactless coordinate measurement at an object surface of an object.