Coordinate Measurement Device Using Accelerometer and Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining spatial coordinates, such as theodolites, tape measures, laser rangefinders, GPS, and LIDAR, face limitations in precision and usability, especially for measuring coordinates on a plane surface indoors or in small-scale environments.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an accelerometer, camera, and optionally a gyroscope, compass, input unit, and processor is used to determine the inclination and azimuth of points on a plane surface, computing coordinates through perpendicular projections and image analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional theodolites are used for measuring coordinates, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (accelerometer for inclination, camera for azimuth and distance, compass for orientation) into a single integrated device, eliminating the need for separate theodolite, tape measure, and level instruments while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device performs multiple measurement functions simultaneously - determining inclination angles via accelerometer, azimuth angles via camera and compass, and calculating 3D coordinates, making it a universal measurement tool that replaces multiple specialized instruments
2Measurement precision
If traditional theodolites are used for measuring coordinates, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically performs calculations and coordinate determination without requiring manual intervention for leveling or complex procedures - the accelerometer automatically detects inclination, the camera captures target position, and the processor computes coordinates, making the system self-sufficient and easy to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical leveling systems and manual reading mechanisms with electronic sensors (accelerometer, camera, compass) and digital processing, eliminating the need for mechanical setup and manual operations while maintaining precision
3Speed
If laser rangefinders are used for distance measurement, then speed of measurement is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges time-of-flight distance measurement (fast) with triangulation-based precision measurement (accurate) by combining camera, accelerometer, and compass data to calculate coordinates through multiple methods, achieving both speed and precision
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
This method provides accurate and efficient determination of spatial coordinates on a plane surface, enhancing precision and usability in indoor and small-scale measurements by leveraging sensor data and image processing.
Implementation Method 1
measures an inclination Ii by means of the accelerometer
Implementation Method 2
The theodolite is the most widely used device... Angles are measured by reading graduated circles... modern versions are capable of measuring distances electro-optically
Data Source
AI summary
A method, tool, and device for determining the coordinates or a plurality of points on a substantially plane surface by means of an accelerometer and a camera. The coordinates of each point are computed by determining a perpendicular projection of the camera onto the surface, identifying each point, measuring an inclination (the angle between the line of sight of the camera and gravity) using the accelerometer, and determining an azimuth (the angle of the line of sight of the camera around gravity).