Geodetic Device Range Imaging Module Target Recognition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current geodetic surveying methods lack effective target recognition and control due to the limitations of purely visual image processing, which fails to provide depth information, especially under unfavorable light conditions and with complex geometries, and existing LIDAR systems have mechanical stability issues and high energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a Range Imaging Module (RIM) into geodetic devices to record additional distance measurements, which are correlated with visual images to derive depth information for improved target recognition and control, allowing for simultaneous visual and distance image processing to enhance accuracy and automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If purely visual image processing is used for target identification, then the system is simple and fast, but depth information is lost and target recognition fails under unfavorable conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a camera for visual image capture with a laser rangefinder for distance measurement into a single integrated geodetic device. The camera records visual images while the laser rangefinder simultaneously measures distances to multiple points, and both data streams are processed together to generate three-dimensional representations with depth information, resolving the contradiction between information completeness and system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional visual images to three-dimensional spatial representation by incorporating distance measurements along the depth dimension. The laser rangefinder provides Z-axis distance data that complements the X-Y plane visual information from the camera, enabling full three-dimensional target recognition and eliminating the depth information loss inherent in purely visual systems
2Measurement precision
If conventional LIDAR systems are used for distance measurement, then depth information is obtained, but mechanical stability deteriorates and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a full LIDAR system that scans numerous points, the patent employs a laser rangefinder that measures distances to a selective subset of points relevant to the surveying task. This partial measurement approach maintains sufficient distance measurement accuracy for geodetic applications while significantly reducing the energy consumption and mechanical complexity associated with comprehensive LIDAR scanning systems
3Productivity
If automated target tracking is implemented using image processing, then surveying efficiency improves, but target recognition accuracy deteriorates under unfavorable conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distance image as an intermediary data layer that bridges visual image processing and accurate target recognition. The distance measurements from the laser rangefinder create a depth map that serves as additional information for the automated target tracking algorithm, enabling it to distinguish targets from background elements more reliably and maintain high recognition accuracy even under unfavorable lighting or geometric conditions while preserving surveying efficiency
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 approach enables improved target recognition and control in geodetic surveying by providing necessary depth information, enhancing accuracy and automation, while reducing mechanical complexity and energy consumption, and allowing for real-time data processing without delays.
Implementation Method 1
a laser transmitter 9 for measuring distance to a target by timing the round trip of a laser beam
Implementation Method 2
a photodetector 11 in a common beam path with the camera 6 for detection of the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for surveying at least one target using a geodetic device. According to said method, a camera of the device captures a visual image and surveys an angle and/or a distance to the target with geodetic precision, the angle and/or distance surveillance being supported or controlled by the visual image. At the same time of capture of the visual image at least two distance points of a distance image are captured as the spatial distribution of discrete distance points in the area of detection. When the visual image and the distance image are correlated with each other, the target is recognized or the measuring process is controlled.