Automated Floorplan Generation via Edge Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems for creating digital two-dimensional floorplans of environments require manual post-processing to define room boundaries, often failing due to noise or artifacts in scan data, and are resource-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A portable system equipped with a 2D scanner, image sensor, and controller that emits light to detect edges and corners, allowing for automated generation of plan view maps by defining rooms and doorways on the map using reflected light beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated room segmentation methods are used, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to noise or artifacts in scan data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer between raw scan data and final room segmentation. This intermediary layer includes multiple filtering algorithms that progressively remove noise and artifacts while preserving genuine architectural features. The system applies sequential filtering stages that act as mediators to reconcile the conflict between automated processing and measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the segmentation results are continuously evaluated and used to refine subsequent processing. The measured values from scan data are fed back into the segmentation algorithm to adjust parameters and improve boundary definition accuracy, creating a closed-loop system that enhances reliability while maintaining automation.
2Measurement precision
If existing scanning equipment is used, then measurement precision is achieved, but device complexity increases due to manual post-processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scanning function with the room segmentation function into an integrated system. The measurement device and processing system are combined to automatically perform both coordinate determination and room boundary definition, eliminating the need for separate manual post-processing operations and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be self-sufficient by automatically performing room segmentation without requiring manual intervention. The processing system autonomously analyzes scan data, identifies room boundaries, and generates floorplans, making the system self-service capable and reducing operational complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual post-processing is used to define room boundaries, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary filtering and preprocessing of scan data during the scanning phase itself, preparing the data for automatic segmentation. By conducting preliminary actions during data acquisition, the system reduces the time required for subsequent processing while maintaining boundary definition accuracy, as the data is pre-conditioned for automated analysis.
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, automated creation of accurate two-dimensional floorplans with reduced manual intervention and resource requirements, improving the precision and speed of environmental mapping.
Implementation Method 1
determine a distance value to object points in the environment based at least in part on a beam of light emitted by the first light source and the receiving of the beam of light reflected from the object points
Implementation Method 2
emitting light from the second light source towards an edge defined by at least a pair of surfaces; detecting the edge based at least in part on emitting a second beam of light from the light source and receiving the second beam of light reflected from either the edge or from the pair of surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of generating a two-dimensional (2D) image of an environment is provided. The system includes a scanner having a first light source, an image sensor, a second light source and a controller, the second light source emitting a visible light, the controller determining a distance to points based on a beam of light emitted by the first light source and receiving of the reflected beam of light from the points. Processors are operably coupled to the scanner execute a method comprising: generating a map of the environment; emitting light from the second light source towards an edge defined by at least a pair of surfaces; detecting the edge based on emitting a second beam of light and receiving the reflected second beam of light; and defining a room on the map based on the detecting of the corner or the edge.