Aerial Movement Calibration Using Wireless Position Transceivers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for calibrating aerial movement systems with cameras are time-consuming, expensive, and impractical for large expanses, as they require manual handling of support lines and use of the ground below the expanse.

Innovation Solution

The use of wireless position transceivers on the object and at registration points allows for the calibration of aerial movement systems through a computer, eliminating the need for manual line handling and ground use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual calibration methods are used with support lines and ground-based measurement, then calibration can be performed, but calibration time becomes very long and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical/laser-based measurement system. The computer-controlled laser measuring device automatically measures the position of the camera and support lines, eliminating the need for manual measurement and calculation, thereby significantly reducing calibration time while maintaining or improving accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a computer as an intermediary that coordinates between the laser measuring device, motors, and reels. The computer automatically processes measurement data, calculates calibration parameters, and controls the adjustment of support lines, replacing the need for manual coordination and reducing both time and human error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If manual calibration with multiple people is used, then calibration can be performed, but labor costs and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration accuracyVSAvoidcalibration process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration system performs self-calibration through automated measurement and calculation. The computer-controlled system automatically measures support line lengths, calculates calibration data, and adjusts the camera position without requiring multiple operators to manually measure and coordinate, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the complex manual coordination process with an automated computer-controlled system that uses laser measurement and electronic control to perform calibration, significantly reducing the number of people needed and simplifying the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If ground-based calibration methods are used, then calibration can be performed, but ground access is required which may not be available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration accessibilityVSAvoiddeployment flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs calibration measurements from the aerial dimension rather than requiring ground-based measurements. The laser measuring device measures support line lengths and camera positions from above, allowing calibration to be performed without accessing the ground area, thereby enabling deployment in locations where ground access is restricted or unavailable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Measurement precision

If traditional calibration methods are used, then calibration can be performed, but inaccurate data may be provided due to catenary effects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiddata accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual measurement methods that are susceptible to catenary effects with an automated laser measuring system controlled by a computer. The system automatically measures and calculates calibration data, reducing human error and providing more reliable measurements by accounting for support line sag and other physical effects through computational correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250147388A1Apparatus and Method for Calibrating an Aerial Movement System
Publication Date: 2025.05.08 CABLECAM LLC
  • US20250147388A1 patent drawing
  • US20250147388A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An aerial movement system and method for calibrating same includes, generally, registration points and wireless position transceivers proximate the registration points and the object that communicate with a computer and allow for the computer to determine the appropriate amount of support lines to draw in or release.