Construction Measuring Device with Automatic Edge Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional construction surveying devices lack automated functionality for tracking edges and sequentially measuring multiple spatial points, requiring manual operation and inefficient point-by-point measurement.
Innovation Solution
A construction surveying device with a rotatable base, pivotable targeting unit, and evaluation unit that includes a laser source, distance detector, camera, and goniometers, enabling automatic edge tracking and projection functionality for measuring and marking spatial points along edges and corner points between adjacent surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used for measuring spatial points, then measurement precision can be maintained, but productivity is reduced due to point-by-point measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically tracks edges and measures spatial points without requiring continuous manual intervention. The targeting unit autonomously follows edges between corner points, and the evaluation unit automatically processes measurements, allowing the system to serve itself in the measurement process while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated optical-mechanical system. The targeting unit with laser source and imaging detector automatically acquires spatial information, and the evaluation unit with processor automatically calculates positions, substituting manual measurement operations with automated electronic systems.
2Productivity
If automated edge tracking is implemented, then productivity increases through sequential measurement, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The targeting unit serves multiple functions: it emits laser beams for distance measurement, captures images for edge detection, and provides alignment indication. The evaluation unit performs multiple tasks including processing distance data, analyzing images, calculating spatial positions, and controlling the marking device, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the targeting unit with both the laser distance measuring device and the imaging detector into a single integrated unit. Additionally, the evaluation unit integrates data processing, edge detection algorithms, and control functions in one system, merging previously separate functions into a unified automated measurement system.
3Loss of time
If manual point selection is used, then device complexity remains low, but loss of time increases due to individual point measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary alignment by indicating the alignment state before measurement begins. The targeting unit pre-acquires spatial information through image capture and laser ranging, and the evaluation unit pre-processes this data to identify edges and corner points, preparing the system for automated sequential measurement without time loss during the actual measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment display functionality provides continuous feedback to the user about the targeting unit's alignment status. The system uses feedback from the imaging detector and distance detector to automatically adjust and maintain proper alignment while tracking edges, enabling real-time correction without manual intervention and reducing overall measurement time.
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 device allows for improved ease of use and increased speed in measuring and marking significant spatial points, enabling automatic tracking and measurement of edges and corner points, reducing manual intervention and enhancing measurement efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source (14) configured to emit a laser beam (14)
Implementation Method 2
a distance determination detector (14) mounted pivotably about a pivot axis within an angular range of an elevation or vertical angle
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring unit (10) having an edge tracking function which runs at least partially automatically. After an at least coarse alignment of a targeting unit (13) having an alignment display function (2) at a first corner (1a) known or defined by a user between adjacent surfaces of the structure and a recording of an image of the said first corner (1a) with the environment thereof, edge lines (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e) are identified as part of the edge tracking function by means of an edge definition by image processing, a query is made as to which of the identified edges lines (3a, 3b, 3c) should be tracked starting from the first corner (1a) or in which direction the identified edge line should be tracked starting from the first edge point (9), and after a corresponding user input is received, the user-defined edge line (3a, 3b, 3c) is tracked automatically by the targeting unit (13) at least as far as to a further corner (1b), wherein spatial points situated along the user-defined edge line (3a, 3b, 3c) are measured if necessary.