AR Device 3D Geological Annotation via 6-DOF Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional guidebooks for geological excursions lack the ability to provide simultaneous, three-dimensional access to geological data, making it difficult for users to identify rock units and requiring costly human guidance for accurate interpretation of vertical stratigraphic information.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of augmented reality (AR) technology that overlays real-time, three-dimensional virtual geological information onto real-world objects using a computer-implemented method, allowing users to receive 3D annotation information and track their location with a six-degrees-of-freedom (6-DOF) localization system, enabling efficient knowledge transfer and improved field studies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional guidebooks are used for geological excursions, then users can access geological information through written descriptions and photographs, but users cannot simultaneously access three-dimensional vertical stratigraphic information and real-time field data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms traditional 2D guidebook information into 3D virtual geological models that can be overlaid onto real-world outcrops. The system creates three-dimensional representations of stratigraphic data, fossil information, and rock properties that extend beyond the flat page format, allowing users to visualize vertical and spatial relationships in multiple dimensions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an augmented reality device as an intermediary between the user and geological information. This device acts as a mediator that overlays virtual geological data onto the real-world view, providing access to stratigraphic information without requiring direct human guidance or complex manual reference to separate guidebooks.
2Reliability
If human experts provide real-time guidance during field excursions, then users can receive accurate interpretation of geological data, but the cost and availability of expert guidance becomes extremely high and impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to independently access and interpret geological information through the augmented reality system. The device provides automated identification of rock units, displays relevant stratigraphic data, and offers interpretive information without requiring human expert intervention, allowing users to conduct self-guided field excursions with expert-level information availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis and preparation of geological information before the user arrives at the field site. Geological data, three-dimensional models, and interpretive information are pre-processed and stored in the system, ready to be instantly overlaid onto the user's field of view when they point the device at relevant outcrops, eliminating the need for real-time expert analysis.
3Measurement precision
If users compare written descriptions with real-world views using conventional methods, then users can attempt to identify rock units, but the process is not straightforward or efficient and requires significant time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the virtual geological information layer with the real-world visual field into a single augmented reality display. Instead of requiring users to separately consult guidebooks and then compare them with outcrops, the system combines both information sources into one integrated view, overlaying rock unit names, descriptions, and three-dimensional models directly onto the corresponding physical features in the user's field of view.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses color-coding and visual differentiation to help users quickly identify and distinguish between different rock units. The augmented reality display employs color changes and visual highlights to draw attention to specific geological features, making it easier and faster to identify rock units compared to traditional monochrome or black-and-white guidebook descriptions.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods include a computer-implemented method for annotating an augmented reality display. An indication that a user is present at a digital stop in a geographical region is received by an augmented reality (AR) device. 3D annotation information associated with a 3D location of the AR device in a 3D reconstructed map of the real world is received. A virtual reality display that overlays, in real-time, the 3D annotation information onto real-world objects in the geographical region is provided. A location of the AR device is determined and tracked using a six degrees-of-freedom localization system. A visual view of the AR device is associated with a pre-acquired 3D point-based model. Features of real-world objects are annotated. Simultaneous localization and mapping of the AR device and the visual view are performed to annotate 3D features during movement of the AR device. Features of the real-world objects are annotated.