Drone Photogrammetry for Precise Structural Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring manmade structures require manual climbing and are time-consuming and labor-intensive, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective approach.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a drone to generate a point cloud model and calculate a pixel-to-distance ratio through photogrammetry, allowing for precise linear measurements without manual access, by using a known measurement to derive a metric image calibration constant and applying it to a head-on image of the area of interest.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used, then measurement precision can be maintained, but time consumption and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement systems with an automated photogrammetry system using drones and image processing software. The system captures images from multiple angles and uses computational algorithms to generate 3D point cloud models and calculate precise measurements, eliminating the need for manual climbing and physical measurement tools while maintaining high precision through pixel-to-distance ratio calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (point cloud model) of the physical structure through photogrammetry. By generating a virtual 3D representation from multiple images, the system allows measurements to be taken on the digital model rather than requiring physical access to the structure, thus reducing time consumption while preserving measurement accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If manual climbing is required for measurements, then direct access to measurement locations is achieved, but safety risks and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a drone as an intermediary device to access measurement locations that would otherwise require human climbing. The drone captures images and data from elevated or difficult-to-reach positions, serving as a mediator between the measurement system and the target structure, thereby eliminating safety risks associated with manual climbing while maintaining ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human climbing with an automated aerial vehicle system. The drone uses its mobility and imaging capabilities to access and measure structures without human intervention, improving safety by removing personnel from hazardous environments while maintaining operational ease.
3Productivity
If automated photogrammetry is used, then time and labor efficiency improve, but measurement precision must be maintained through calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter space by introducing a pixel-to-distance ratio calibration constant that transforms image pixel measurements into real-world distance measurements. By establishing this conversion parameter through known reference measurements, the system maintains high measurement precision while operating in the more efficient photogrammetry workflow, bridging the gap between automated imaging and precise measurement.
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
Enables accurate measurements down to the 1000th of an inch without manual climbing, significantly reducing time and labor costs while maintaining high precision.
Implementation Method 1
An imaging system attached to the UAV takes a plurality of images of the area of interest
Implementation Method 2
A method utilizing a drone to generate a point cloud model and calculate a pixel-to-distance ratio through photogrammetry
Data Source
AI summary
A point cloud model of the area of interest is generated. A known measurement coplanar to the precise measurement desired is used to define a metric image calibration constant for the picture. This image pixel to distance ratio is then used to take a linear measurement in a head on picture of the measurement of interest.