Distance Image Connection Using Outer Shape Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating drawings of large structures like bridges face challenges in accurately connecting multiple images without generating accumulation errors, particularly when the position or measurement direction of measurement points is not detected.
Innovation Solution
A drawing creation apparatus and method that includes an outer shape acquisition unit, a distance image capture device, a connection processing unit, and a drawing creation unit, which captures distance images with annex information on imaging positions and directions, connects these images using the structure's outer shape, and converts them into a global coordinate system to prevent accumulation errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If multiple distance images are connected by estimating rotation matrix and movement vector from corresponding segments, then the plurality of range images can be combined automatically, but accumulation errors occur in the connected images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a global coordinate system as an intermediary reference frame to connect multiple distance images. Instead of directly connecting images through sequential estimation which causes accumulation errors, each image is independently transformed to the global coordinate system using GPS and azimuth information as mediators, eliminating error propagation between connected images.
2Measurement precision
If GPS information and azimuth information are used to determine imaging positions and directions, then distance images can be connected without accumulation errors, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or manual alignment systems with information-based fields (GPS satellite signals and azimuth sensor data). Instead of physically adjusting or mechanically aligning images, the system uses electromagnetic field-based positioning information to automatically determine transformation parameters, simplifying the overall system while maintaining high precision.
3Ease of manufacture
If three or more segments are required in each range image for connection processing, then the connection can be performed using unique value and unique vector, but the method cannot be employed when such segments are not present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes the outer shape information of the structure as a separate, independent element for connection processing. By extracting the outer shape contour and using it as a reference for matching and aligning distance images, the system eliminates the requirement for specific segment configurations in each image, making the method applicable to diverse structural forms without segment constraints.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a drawing creation apparatus and a drawing creation method capable of conveniently creating a drawing of a large structure such as a bridge, without generating an accumulation error by a connection of an image. In an aspect of the present invention, an outer shape of an outline of a structure which is a creation target of a drawing is acquired from map information 170, and distance images of a plurality of portions including annex information indicating an imaging position and an imaging direction captured by dividing the structure by a plurality of times from a Time Of Flight (TOF) camera 10 are acquired. A connection processing unit 140 connects the acquired distance images of the plurality of portions with each other, by using the annex information on the distance images, however, connects the distance images so that the distance images correspond to the outer shape of the structure, by using the outer shape of the structure at the time of the connection. A drawing creation unit 150 automatically creates a drawing of the structure from the distance images (three-dimensional information on the entire structure) connected with each other.