Deformable Support Shape Acquisition Using Angular Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D acquisition techniques for deformable geometric shapes are expensive, complex, and often require external equipment, leading to difficulties in accurately capturing shapes with deformations, especially in applications like aerodynamic or hydrodynamic studies.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using a set of sensors placed on a deformable support that conforms to the shape, with microtechnologies or nanotechnologies enabling precise measurement of orientation and spatial distribution, allowing for the reconstruction of the shape without substantial mechanical alteration of the material, and capable of handling hundreds or thousands of measurement points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional 3D acquisition techniques (laser triangulation or stereoscopic cameras) are used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical-mechanical 3D acquisition systems (laser triangulation, stereoscopic cameras) with a simplified system based on angular sensors that measure orientation angles directly. This substitution of the measurement principle reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision for deformable shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable support structure serves dual functions: it conforms to the shape being measured and simultaneously carries the angular sensors. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate external measurement equipment, reducing overall system complexity while enabling accurate 3D acquisition.
2Measurement precision
If external 3D acquisition equipment is used, then shape measurement can be performed, but the equipment cost and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is integrated into the deformable support itself, which automatically conforms to the shape being measured. This eliminates the need for external equipment setup and operation, making the system easier to implement and operate while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable support structure performs multiple functions: it conforms to various shapes being measured and simultaneously serves as the mounting structure for sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment for different measurement scenarios, improving ease of operation across applications.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are placed on deformable material, then accurate shape monitoring is achieved, but the sensors may alter the material's mechanical characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses angular sensors that measure orientation at specific local points without requiring physical attachment that would alter material properties. By measuring angles of deformation at discrete locations rather than applying rigid fixtures, the system achieves accurate shape monitoring while preserving the material's intrinsic mechanical behavior.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
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AI summary
A set of sensors (1) is placed on this shape (curve or surface), each sensor providing signals representative of the orientation of the shape at the sensor's location; a model of the shape is chosen; from the signals, the parameters of the model are determined and the distances between the sensors are measured; and, from the model parameters and the distance measurements, the spatial distribution of points on the shape is determined. The invention is particularly applicable to the fields of machining, woodworking, masonry, and construction.