Combined Laser Tracking and Photogrammetry Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photogrammetry devices face accuracy deficiencies when measuring large areas, while laser tracking devices struggle with speed in measuring large surface areas, necessitating a solution that combines both methods effectively.
Innovation Solution
A combined laser tracking and photogrammetry target featuring a spherical reflective portion for laser tracking and a planar reflective surface for photogrammetry, with a unique coded pattern for identification, allowing simultaneous measurement of surfaces using both technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If photogrammetry devices are used to measure large areas, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines photogrammetry and laser tracking technologies into a single integrated system. The measurement system includes both photogrammetry cameras for large area coverage and laser trackers for high precision measurements, allowing the system to achieve both broad coverage and high accuracy simultaneously by merging the capabilities of both technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The target object is designed with multiple functional components: reflective surfaces for laser tracking, coded patterns for photogrammetry identification, and geometric features for both measurement methods. This multi-functional target allows a single object to serve both high-precision laser tracking and broad-coverage photogrammetry purposes.
2Measurement precision
If laser tracking devices are used to measure at predetermined locations, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges laser tracking and photogrammetry operations to occur simultaneously. While the laser tracker provides high-precision measurements at specific points, the photogrammetry system captures the entire scene and target positions concurrently, significantly reducing total measurement time while maintaining accuracy through the laser component.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system enables continuous measurement operations where both laser tracking and photogrammetry are performing useful measurement functions simultaneously. The laser tracker continuously monitors predetermined locations with high precision while the photogrammetry system continuously captures positional information, eliminating idle time and maximizing productivity.
3Device complexity
If separate targets are used for laser tracking and photogrammetry, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement integration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The target is designed as a universal object that incorporates all necessary features for both laser tracking and photogrammetry measurements. It includes reflective surfaces for laser return, coded patterns for photogrammetry identification, and geometric features for both measurement systems, allowing a single target to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of separate laser tracking targets and photogrammetry targets into a single integrated target design. This combination includes reflective elements for laser tracking, coded patterns for photogrammetry recognition, and geometric features that serve both measurement methodologies, thereby improving measurement integration while managing complexity through unified design.
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
Enables more accurate, efficient, and timely surface measurements by integrating the strengths of both photogrammetry and laser tracking, reducing human interaction and errors, and improving automation.
Implementation Method 1
a second portion adapted to reflect a light beam towards a photogrammetry device, wherein said second portion comprises one or more reflective surfaces on said planar surface of the target
Implementation Method 2
a first portion of substantially spherical shape, comprising one or more surfaces adapted to reflect a laser beam towards a laser tracking device
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to the use of one or more targets in measuring surfaces. Each of the one or more targets may comprise a first portion adapted to reflect a laser beam towards a laser tracking device, and a second portion adapted to reflect a light beam towards a photogrammetry device, and a third portion uniquely identifying the target. Simultaneous photogrammetry and laser tracking measurements may be taken utilizing the one or more targets.