3D Model Generation for Escalator Bearing Structure Modernization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for modernizing escalators or moving walkways are costly and time-consuming due to the need for specialized personnel to measure and prepare the bearing structure for replacement components, as they require on-site inspection and measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate a 3D model of the structural components of the bearing structure using an image recording device attached to the conveying means, allowing for the measurement and positioning of new components with reduced expertise and cost, by creating a true-to-scale digital reproduction of the structure for adapter part construction and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional on-site measurement methods are used by specialized personnel, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D model (copy) of the bearing structure instead of performing physical measurements. The image recording device captures images from multiple positions, and a computing device generates a scalable 3D model that accurately represents the original structure. This digital copy can be measured and analyzed without requiring specialized personnel to be present at the site, thus maintaining measurement accuracy while significantly reducing time and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement process (physical measurement tools and skilled personnel) with an automated optical and computational system. The image recording device with camera and computing device automatically captures and processes visual data to create the 3D model, eliminating the need for manual measurement operations and specialized human expertise on-site.
2Measurement precision
If traditional on-site measurement methods are used by specialized personnel, then accurate measurements are obtained, but the process requires high expertise and increases costs
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system performs self-service by automatically capturing images and generating the 3D model without requiring specialized personnel. The image recording device moves along the conveying means and automatically captures images of the bearing structure, while the computing device automatically processes these images to create the 3D model. This eliminates the need for expert operators to perform measurements on-site.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex human expertise requirement with an automated optical-computational system. The combination of image recording device, conveying means, and computing device creates a self-sufficient measurement system that automatically performs tasks previously requiring skilled personnel, thereby reducing both expertise requirements and operational costs.
3Loss of information
If the conveying means is moved to capture images from multiple positions, then complete 3D model coverage is achieved, but the measurement process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying means serves multiple functions: it is both the operational component of the escalator/moving walkway and the mounting platform for the image recording device. By utilizing the existing conveying means for dual purposes, the system achieves complete structure coverage without adding separate complex positioning or movement mechanisms, thereby minimizing additional system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a device are described for measuring structural components of a bearing structure of an escalator or moving walkway without specialized personnel having to carry out precise measurements in situ. The method comprises fixing an image recording device on a conveying means of the escalator, removing at least one of the tread units of the escalator in order to enable visual access to structural components beneath it; moving the conveying means together with the image recording device at least over partial areas of a travel path, recording images of the structural components to be measured with the image recording device, and generating a 3D model of at least a partial area of the structural components of the bearing structure based on the recorded images. Using the 3D model experts can then measure dimensions and spatial arrangements of structural components without having to be in person at the actual location.