Concrete Test Block Image Acquisition Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring geometric parameters of specific developing areas on concrete test blocks, such as in Rapid Chloride Migration and carbonation tests, suffer from inaccuracies due to manual measurements and the lack of stable image acquisition systems, especially for semi-cylindric test blocks, where traditional image processing techniques fail to provide reliable results.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition device comprising a digital camera supported by a screw slideway and stepping motors, a spirit level, and a reference glass plate with a marker, allowing precise alignment and image capture of concrete test blocks, enabling accurate calculation of geometric parameters through pixel analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual measurement with caliper is used, then measurement can be performed with simple equipment, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to subjective behavior and sparse measuring points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical measurement system (caliper) with an automated optical imaging system. A digital camera captures images of the concrete test block section, and image processing software automatically measures the geometric parameters of developing areas, eliminating subjective human error and achieving higher precision without complex manual operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the concrete test block section and performs measurements on this copy through image processing. This allows multiple measurements to be taken from the same image without physically touching or disturbing the actual specimen, improving both accuracy and repeatability
2Device complexity
If handheld digital camera is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to unstable positioning and variable shooting distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning actions by providing a dedicated camera support structure with adjustable components that allow the camera to be pre-positioned at the optimal shooting distance and angle before image capture. This ensures consistent positioning and eliminates the variability introduced by handheld operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a camera support structure as an intermediary between the operator and the camera. This support structure includes positioning mechanisms and adjustment components that mediate the camera's position and orientation, ensuring stable and repeatable imaging conditions without requiring complex manual操作
3Ease of operation
If preset size reference (150mm×150mm×150mm) is used for proportion conversion, then measurement process is simplified, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to error between actual and preset sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the reference parameter from a fixed preset size to a variable actual size by incorporating a reference object of known dimensions into the image. The image processing software measures the pixel dimensions of this reference object and uses it to calculate the actual scale, thereby adapting to any actual specimen size and eliminating errors from size assumptions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent places a physical reference object (with known dimensions) into the image along with the specimen. This reference object serves as an internal scale bar that is captured in the same image plane, allowing accurate proportion conversion based on actual image geometry rather than assumed specimen dimensions
4Extent of automation
If scanner is used for image acquisition, then automation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because it requires smooth bottom surface and cannot measure geometric parameters of carbonized area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a camera-based imaging system that serves multiple functions: it can capture images of various specimen shapes (cubes, cylinders, prisms), handle different surface conditions (rough or smooth), and measure different types of developing areas. The system uses software-based analysis that adapts to different geometries and color patterns, making it universally applicable across different test types
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition device and a measuring method for geometric parameters of a specific developing area on a concrete test block. In the image acquisition device, a digital camera is provided on a camera support; the camera support is provided with a screw bearing which is connected to a first stepping motor via a first coupling; the camera support is provided on a screw slideway which is connected to a second stepping motor via a second coupling; the screw slideway, the first stepping motor and the second stepping motor are provided on a rear platform of a L-shaped base; a spirit level and a controller are respectively provided at two sides of the rear platform of the L-shaped base; and a reference glass plate is arranged on a front raised platform of the L-shaped base.