Automated Fence Inspection Using Line Laser Pattern Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual visual inspection of structures with repetitive patterns, such as fences, is tedious and error-prone, especially under changing lighting conditions, and lacks automation for detecting anomalies.
Innovation Solution
An automated system using a laser light source and optical element to produce a narrow vertical light beam, processing reflected light to create digital images, and identifying anomalies in the pattern, with a computer-implemented system capable of processing images and reporting geographic positions of anomalies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual visual inspection is used to verify fence integrity, then the inspection process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the process is tedious, time-consuming, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated optical system using a line laser projector, camera, and image processing algorithms. The system mechanically scans the fence structure by moving the laser camera assembly along the fence line, automatically capturing and analyzing images to detect anomalies, thereby eliminating the need for tedious manual inspection while significantly improving inspection speed and accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies (images) of the fence structure using a line laser and camera. These digital representations are then processed through image analysis algorithms to detect anomalies such as missing sections, damaged components, or structural defects. This copying approach enables automated analysis and eliminates human error associated with manual visual inspection
2Reliability
If manual inspection is performed under changing lighting conditions, then no additional equipment is needed, but detection accuracy deteriorates and becomes error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary illumination by projecting a structured line laser pattern onto the fence structure before capturing images. This pre-illumination with controlled laser light creates consistent lighting conditions regardless of ambient lighting variations, ensuring reliable anomaly detection across different times of day and weather conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the line laser to change the illumination parameters by projecting a specific pattern of light onto the fence. This controlled light source provides consistent intensity and distribution independent of ambient conditions, allowing the imaging system to maintain high detection accuracy whether inspecting during daytime, nighttime, or under varying weather conditions
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the fence pattern is small and repetitive, then the structure appears uniform and homogeneous, but anomaly detection becomes more challenging and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates high-resolution digital copies of the fence structure using the line laser and camera system. These detailed images capture the repetitive pattern with sufficient resolution to identify subtle deviations. Image processing algorithms then compare successive images to detect anomalies that break the expected repetitive pattern, making detection easier despite the uniform appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses image processing algorithms that provide feedback by comparing captured images against expected patterns. When an anomaly is detected in the repetitive structure, the system flags the deviation and can guide further inspection. This feedback mechanism enhances detection capability by continuously monitoring for pattern breaks and alerting operators to potential issues
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 efficient, around-the-clock, and error-free detection of structural anomalies in repetitive pattern structures, allowing for real-time reporting and reducing human error, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
using a laser light source and an optical element to produce a narrow vertical light beam
Implementation Method 2
processing light reflected by the structure to produce a digital image
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented system and method for examining the integrity of a structure having a visually repetitive pattern such as a fence, includes an imaging system having a light source and an optical element to produce a narrow substantially vertical light beam, and a photodetector to receive reflected light. The light beam is directed at the structure while moving laterally, producing a planar image of the structure which is continually refreshed. The system processes the images and identifies an anomalous feature from an anomaly in the repetitive pattern.