Drone 3D Structural Extraction for Faster Damage Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for assessing damage to insured assets, such as homes or vehicles, are time-consuming and laborious, requiring manual data entry and sketching, which delays claim disbursement to homeowners.
Innovation Solution
A mobile photogrammetry system using a structural analysis computing device with an object sensor captures 3D images, analyzes them to generate interactive 3D renderings, and determines characteristics for insurance quotes or claims, leveraging machine learning algorithms and user input for accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual data entry and sketching methods are used for damage assessment, then measurement precision can be maintained, but the time required for assessment increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and sketching processes with an automated image processing system. The system captures images of damaged structures and automatically extracts measurements and generates sketches through computer vision algorithms, eliminating the need for manual tape measures and sketching tools while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of the damaged structure through photogrammetry and image processing. By generating 3D models and automated sketches from photographs, the system preserves all necessary measurement and structural information without requiring physical measurement tools or manual redrawing, thus reducing time while maintaining precision.
2Loss of information
If manual sketching and measurement recording are performed by claims handlers, then detailed structural information can be obtained, but the labor required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically extracting structural information from images without requiring claims handlers to manually measure or sketch. The image processing algorithms autonomously identify structural elements, generate sketches, and extract measurements, freeing claims handlers from tedious manual tasks while maintaining information completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system between the claims handler and the structural analysis. Instead of handlers directly measuring and sketching, they simply capture images which the intermediary system then processes to generate all necessary structural information, reducing operational complexity while maintaining detail.
3Reliability
If conventional manual assessment methods are used, then thoroughness can be maintained, but claim processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous automated processing of claim assessments. Image processing algorithms continuously analyze captured images to extract structural information, generate sketches, and prepare assessment data without interruption or manual intervention, maintaining thoroughness while significantly increasing processing speed compared to batch manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual assessment process with an automated digital system. By substituting human measurement and analysis with computer vision and image processing algorithms, the system maintains thorough assessment quality while operating at machine speeds, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing reliability.
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 system significantly reduces the time and labor required for insurance assessments, enabling faster claim processing and more accurate insurance quotes and claims handling.
Implementation Method 1
A mobile photogrammetry system using a structural analysis computing device with an object sensor captures 3D images
Data Source
AI summary
A structural analysis computing device may generate a proposed insurance claim and/or generate a proposed insurance quote for an object pictured in a three-dimensional (3D) image. The structural analysis computing device may be coupled to a drone configured to capture exterior images of the object. The structural analysis computing device may include a memory, a user interface, an object sensor configured to capture the 3D image, and a processor in communication with the memory and the object sensor. The processor may access the 3D image including the object, and analyze the 3D images to identify features of the object—such as by inputting the 3D image into a trained machine learning or pattern recognition program. The processor may generate a proposed claim form for a damaged object and/or a proposed quote for an uninsured object, and display the form to a user for their review and/or approval.