Hand-Held 3D Imaging With AR Tracking for Precise Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D modeling technologies, particularly those using hand-held devices, struggle to provide accurate and reliable real-time three-dimensional representations due to limitations in tracking the relative position and orientation of imaging devices, leading to imprecise and insufficient 2D slice generation.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held augmented reality (AR) 3D imaging system integrating portable imaging devices, computing devices with AR capabilities, tracking mechanisms, and image processing software to convert captured data into 3D representations, utilizing SLAM and advanced image tracking to synchronize device orientations and generate accurate 3D models in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large-scale instrumentation and base operation machinery (X-rays, MRI machines, ground-based sonar detection equipment) are used for 3D modeling, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities (ultrasound, microwave, X-ray, light) into a single integrated hand-held system that can perform 3D imaging. The system merges the capabilities of separate imaging devices with tracking mechanisms and computational processing into one unified portable platform, achieving MRI-level precision without requiring separate large-scale equipment for each imaging modality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand-held imaging system is designed to perform multiple imaging functions using different radiation or energy forms (ultrasound, microwave, X-ray, light) within a single device. This multi-functional approach allows the system to adapt to various imaging needs and subject types without requiring separate specialized equipment, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If multiple layer generation is undertaken to provide 3D rendering from 2D slices, then 3D representation completeness is improved, but time consumption and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary tracking and orientation recording during the imaging acquisition phase. By continuously tracking the imaging device's position and orientation in real-time as 2D slices are captured, the system prepares all necessary spatial information in advance, enabling immediate 3D reconstruction without time-consuming post-processing of layer alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manually stacking and aligning 2D slices to create 3D models with an automated computational system. The tracking mechanism and image processing software automatically correlate 2D slices in three-dimensional space based on recorded device orientation and position data, eliminating the time-consuming manual assembly process while maintaining complete 3D representation.
3Ease of operation
If hand-held portable scanning devices are used for 3D imaging, then ease of operation and portability are improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tracking mechanism as an intermediary between the hand-held imaging device and the 3D reconstruction process. This tracking system continuously monitors the device's position and orientation in real-time, providing accurate spatial data that compensates for the portability of the hand-held device. The tracking intermediary ensures that even though the device is portable and easy to maneuver, the resulting 3D measurements maintain high precision through accurate positional tracking.
4Ease of manufacture
If off-the-shelf portable scanners and existing hardware are utilized, then cost and ease of manufacture are improved, but adaptability and versatility decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves versatility through a universal software platform that can process and integrate data from multiple imaging modalities (ultrasound, microwave, X-ray, light). By using off-the-shelf hardware components combined with a multi-functional software architecture, the system can adapt to different imaging needs and subject types without requiring custom-built specialized equipment for each modality, thereby maintaining both cost-effectiveness and versatility.
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 versatile, cost-effective, and accurate real-time 3D imaging across various applications, including medical diagnostics and industrial inspections, by leveraging off-the-shelf devices and AR technology to overcome limitations of traditional large-scale equipment.
Implementation Method 1
such forms of radiation and/or energy may encompass ultrasound waves
Implementation Method 2
such forms of radiation and/or energy may encompass ultrasound waves, microwaves, X-rays, or light as needed
Implementation Method 3
such forms of radiation and/or energy may encompass ultrasound waves, microwaves, X-rays, or light as needed
Implementation Method 4
utilizing SLAM and advanced image tracking to synchronize device orientations
Implementation Method 5
image processing and reconstruction software for converting captured data into three-dimensional representations
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a versatile and cost-effective system for providing three-dimensional imaging of many different subjects utilizing a unique combination of devices. Such a methodology includes, as one non-limiting example, the integration of augmented reality (AR) capabilities of smartphones and/or computers with various imaging modalities (imaging devices), such as ultrasound, microwaves, X-rays, light, and other forms of radiation or energy, in combination with a separate tracking device to correlate actual location of imaged subjects to provide a real-time (or near) three-dimensional (3D) representation of such a subject on demand. The utilization of such combined devices allows for significant versality of the disclosed system through, at least, the ability to remotely transport and utilize such devices together for a 3D view thereof as needed and/or desired. Such a system thus provides effective 3D representations of bodies (humans or animals), geographical sites (for underground determinations, for example), and any other solid form.