3D Structural Measurement Extraction for Faster Insurance Damage Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of assessing damage to structures for insurance claims is time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring manual data entry and measurement by claims handlers, which delays claim disbursement to homeowners.
Innovation Solution
A mobile photogrammetry system using a structural analysis computing device with an object sensor captures 3D images, automatically determines measurements, and generates data files for insurance claim processing, reducing manual input and accelerating the claims handling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual measurement and data entry is used by claims handlers, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time consumption and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by having the mobile device automatically capture 3D images and extract measurements without requiring claims handlers to manually measure and input data. The photogrammetry system processes images autonomously to generate structural data, reducing manual labor while maintaining processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with automated photogrammetry technology. Instead of physically measuring structures and manually transcribing data, the system uses image processing algorithms to automatically extract dimensional information from captured images, significantly reducing time and labor requirements
2Loss of time
If manual data collection and entry processes are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but claim disbursement time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically capturing 3D images and extracting measurements in the field before the claims handler needs to process the data. The mobile device captures images and the system pre-processes them to generate structural data, eliminating the need for subsequent manual measurement and data entry steps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system - the mobile photogrammetry device - that bridges the gap between the claims handler and the damaged structure. This intermediary automatically collects and processes structural data, eliminating the need for manual measurement and reducing the time between inspection and data availability for claim processing
3Productivity
If automated 3D image analysis is implemented, then processing time and labor requirements are reduced, but measurement precision and accuracy must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the extracted measurements and generated floor plans are reviewed and verified. The mobile device allows claims handlers to check the automated measurements against actual structural features, providing feedback loops that ensure accuracy while maintaining high processing efficiency through automation
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
Automated 3D image analysis significantly reduces the time and labor required for insurance claim assessment, enabling faster claim disbursement and improving user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The object sensor may be configured to capture 3D images of the object and communicate those images to the structural analysis computing device for further processing
Data Source
AI summary
A structural analysis computing device for determining structural characteristics of an object pictured in a three-dimensional (3D) image may be provided. The structural analysis computing device may include a memory, a user interface, an object sensor configured to capture the 3D image of the object, and at least one processor in communication with the memory and the object sensor. The processor may be configured to access the 3D image including the object, automatically determine a first plurality of measurements of the object from the 3D image, and display the 3D image on the user interface. The processor may be further configured to generate a data file including the 3D image and the first plurality of measurements, and store the data file within the memory. The processor may also be configured to transmit the data file to an insurance server computing device for generation of an associated insurance claim form.