AI Image Guidance for Precise Defect Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for navigating to precise locations of defects in industrial settings lack accuracy and user-friendliness, relying on single modes of communication like heat maps or directional arrows, which are ineffective at a distance, and ultra-wideband or RF Bluetooth technologies do not provide interactive guidance.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses image descriptions generated by AI to guide users to precise locations using natural language, arrows, and heat maps, combining depth maps with RGB images for enhanced accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing methods like heat maps or directional arrows are used for defect localization, then the guidance is simple to implement, but the accuracy and effectiveness at a distance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D visual guidance (heat maps, arrows) to 3D spatial understanding by processing multiple images from different viewpoints. The system captures images at various angles and uses AI to generate comprehensive spatial descriptions, enabling accurate defect localization even when the worker is at a distance from the defect location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and processing before the worker arrives at the defect location. By capturing multiple images from different viewpoints in advance and pre-processing them to generate spatial descriptions and navigation guidance, the system prepares all necessary information ahead of time, allowing the worker to receive accurate guidance without delay.
2Measurement precision
If ultra-wideband or RF Bluetooth technologies are used for positioning, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the interactivity and user-friendliness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary AI processing layer between the camera system and the worker. The AI system processes images, generates natural language descriptions, and creates intuitive navigation guidance, serving as a mediator that translates raw visual data into human-friendly instructions. This intermediary layer restores interactivity and user-friendliness while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously processing images captured during the worker's movement and adjusting guidance instructions in real-time. The AI analyzes new images, compares them with previously captured images, and provides updated navigation directions, creating an interactive feedback loop that adapts to the worker's position and orientation.
3Device complexity
If a single mode of communication is used for defect guidance, then the system complexity is reduced, but the effectiveness in guiding workers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional guidance system that can operate in multiple modes depending on the situation. The AI system can generate various types of guidance (natural language descriptions, spatial relationships, navigation instructions) and adapt the communication mode based on the worker's position, the defect location, and environmental factors, making the system universally effective across different scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein can involve in response to receiving, at a system, a set of images associated with a first area of interest, processing the set of images to generate a first image description; communicating the first image description and the set of images to a user device to enable the user device to locate a second area of interest; in response to the user navigating to the second area of interest, using a positioning system and capturing a new image by pointing a camera in any direction, obtaining the new image at the system and processing the new image; obtaining a second image description associated with the new image; comparing the first image description with the second image description to obtain a comparison result; and based on the comparison result, communicating to the user device instructions for adjusting the camera.