3D Measurement Device Annotation Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D measurement devices lack the capability to effectively associate annotation data, such as audio notes and manual measurements, with the measured 3D coordinates, leading to a separation of these data types and loss of positional context.
Innovation Solution
A 3D measurement system that includes a noncontact measurement device, an annotation member, and a processor, which determines 3D coordinates and records user inputs to associate annotation data with the corresponding points in the field of view, allowing for the integration of audio annotations and visible light markings with the 3D data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If annotation data is recorded separately from 3D measurement data, then the measurement device can focus on its primary function, but the association between annotations and measurement locations is lost or weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the annotation recording function with the 3D measurement device by integrating a microphone and processing capabilities into the same handheld device. The processor correlates audio annotations with spatial coordinates from the 3D scan data, merging two previously separate functions (measurement and annotation) into a single integrated system that maintains reliable data association.
2Loss of information
If the operator uses handwritten notes for annotations, then the device remains simple, but the positional context of annotations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical handwritten note-taking system with an electronic audio-based annotation system. Instead of physically writing notes that lose spatial context, the operator speaks annotations that are captured by a microphone and automatically correlated with 3D spatial coordinates by a processor, preserving positional context through digital data association rather than physical notation.
3Reliability
If manual measurements are taken separately with a tape measure, then the measurement tool remains simple, but the measurements become ancillary and separate from the 3D coordinate data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the handheld 3D measurement device multi-functional by integrating both 3D scanning capabilities and annotation/recording functions into a single device. The processor correlates multiple data types (3D coordinates, audio annotations, timing information) together, allowing the device to perform measurement, documentation, and data correlation functions universally through one integrated system rather than requiring separate tools.
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 the direct association of annotation data with 3D coordinates, improving data integrity by linking observational notes and measurements to their precise locations within the 3D data set, enhancing the usability and accuracy of 3D measurements.
Implementation Method 1
Other types of noncontact devices may also be used to measure 3D coordinates, such as those that use time of flight techniques (e.g. laser trackers, laser scanners or time of flight cameras) for measuring the amount of time it takes for light to travel to the surface and return to the device.
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional (3D) measurement system and method is provided. The system includes a noncontact measurement device, an annotation member and a processor. The noncontact measurement device being operable to measure a distance from the noncontact measurement device to a surface. The annotation member is coupled to the noncontact measurement device. The processor is operably coupled to the noncontact measurement device and the annotation member, the processor operable to execute computer instructions when executed on the processor for determining 3D coordinates of at least one point in a field of view based at least in part on the distance, recording an annotation in response to an input from a user, and associating the annotation with the at least one point.