AR Pool Mapping for Complex Shape Cleaning Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to accurately determine the shapes and volumes of complex swimming pools and spas, which is crucial for efficient operation and maintenance, such as for automatic pool cleaners and chemical dosage systems.
Innovation Solution
Employing augmented reality techniques using a mobile device to create a three-dimensional mapping of pool shapes and sizes by tracing outlines and providing depth-related information, which can be used to improve the operational efficiency of pool cleaning systems and other equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If automated systems with on-board sensors and processors are used to map pools, then information gathering capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses satellite-based imagery as a copy or representation of the actual pool to extract shape and size information. Instead of deploying complex sensing equipment into the pool, the system creates a digital model by processing aerial images, thereby obtaining pool characteristics through information copying rather than direct physical measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces satellite imagery as an intermediary medium between the observer and the pool. The aerial images serve as a mediator that carries information about the pool's shape and dimensions, allowing the system to extract pool characteristics without direct contact or complex in-pool sensing equipment.
2Ease of operation
If satellite-based imagery is used to map pools, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates for complex pool shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pool mapping process into distinct steps: acquiring satellite imagery, identifying pool boundaries through image processing, extracting shape characteristics, and calculating dimensions. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex pool shapes by breaking down the overall task into manageable processing stages, improving both precision and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional satellite imagery to three-dimensional pool shape reconstruction by applying geometric algorithms. The system uses the aerial view data to infer depth profiles and create 3D models of the pool, adding a vertical dimension to the mapping process and thereby improving measurement precision for complex shapes while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Augmented (virtual) reality techniques are described for assisting in determining characteristics of swimming pools and spas. Such pools and spas may, for example, be mapped at least as to their general sizes and shapes. The mapped and other information may be available for display and may be furnished to an automatic swimming pool cleaner (APC) to improve its operational efficiency in cleaning the pool.