Camera Network Layout Marking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction layout process is lengthy, tedious, and expensive due to the need for significant labor and potential errors in measuring and marking predetermined locations for power tools and non-power tools in a construction site, despite the use of location determining systems like robotic total stations.
Innovation Solution
A camera network system comprising multiple camera units, a main processing computer, measurement sticks, and calibration targets that automatically detect and calculate positions of objects and tools within a workspace, allowing for precise positioning and monitoring of work progress, and reducing errors by self-realigning camera units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual measurement and marking methods are used, then positioning precision can be achieved, but significant labor and time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, laser distance meters, total stations) with an automated vision-based system. Multiple cameras capture images of the workspace, and computer vision algorithms automatically detect features, calculate 3D positions, and generate layout markings, eliminating the need for manual measurement operations while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-positioning of construction elements by automatically detecting the positions of walls, floors, and existing structures through camera imaging. The computer vision algorithm independently calculates 3D coordinates and generates precise layout markings without requiring human operators to perform measurement tasks, allowing the system to serve itself in the positioning process.
2Measurement precision
If teams of workers are deployed for layout, then measurement coverage is improved, but labor costs and potential for errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vision-based system performs multiple measurement and layout functions simultaneously using the same camera array and processing algorithms. It can detect 3D positions of various construction elements (walls, floors, ceilings), calculate coordinates for different types of markings, and generate layout information for multiple work areas all at once, replacing the need for specialized measurement tools and skilled measurement teams.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of the physical workspace by capturing images with cameras and generating 3D point cloud representations. These digital models serve as virtual replicas that can be measured, analyzed, and used to generate layout markings without physically touching or disturbing the construction site, eliminating the need for physical measurement teams while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Productivity
If robotic total stations are used, then positioning speed is improved, but equipment cost and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement and layout task into independent parallel operations: multiple cameras simultaneously capture images from different positions, the computer vision algorithm independently processes each image to detect features and calculate 3D positions, and the system generates layout markings for multiple locations in parallel. This segmentation enables rapid processing without the sequential operations required by robotic total stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computer vision algorithms as an intermediary between the physical workspace and the layout marking process. Instead of directly measuring with complex robotic equipment, the system uses cameras to capture optical information, processes it through vision algorithms to extract 3D geometric data, and then uses this intermediate digital representation to generate precise layout markings, simplifying the overall system while improving speed.
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
The system significantly reduces manual labor and costs associated with construction layout by enabling quick and precise positioning of tools and objects, while minimizing errors through automated detection and realignment of camera units, thereby streamlining the construction process.
Implementation Method 1
A camera unit comprises one or more imaging devices... acquiring a first image and a second image of an object
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple cameras are used for tool positioning, as-built documentation, and/or personnel monitoring in construction site. A camera unit comprises one or more imaging devices, a processing computer, and a communication device. The camera units are placed at multiple locations in a construction site to cover an area. The camera units are self-positioned by detecting a calibration target that moves within a working volume. The camera units can detect and calculate positions of objects, including measurement sticks, tools, personnel, etc., in the area.