360 Degree Image Angle Measurement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surveying instruments, such as theodolites, require manual alignment and reading of angular positions, which can be inaccurate and costly, especially when using electronic angle encoders, and do not provide sufficient accuracy for certain applications.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a housing with an imaging device and optical elements that captures 360° panoramic images to compute angular measurements, utilizing low-cost light sensor arrays like CCD or CMOS arrays, allowing for automated and high-resolution angle determination between targets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional theodolites with manual alignment and reading are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment and reading operations with an automated optical-mechanical system. A camera captures images of targets, and a computer automatically processes these images to determine angular positions and separations, eliminating the need for manual scale reading and alignment procedures while significantly improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a visual copy of the target field of view on photographic or digital media. This captured image serves as a permanent record that can be analyzed to determine angular positions, replacing the transient mechanical scale readings and allowing for more precise and repeatable measurements.
2Ease of operation
If electronic angle encoders are used to automate angle determination, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic angle encoders and their associated mechanical rotation systems with a stationary camera-based optical system. The camera remains fixed while capturing images of targets at different positions, and a computer algorithm determines angular information from these images, eliminating complex electronic encoding mechanisms while maintaining ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If conventional theodolites are used, then the device cost is moderate, but the measurement precision is insufficient for high-accuracy applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standard camera imaging systems to create detailed visual records of target positions. This copying approach allows for post-processing analysis that can achieve higher precision than real-time mechanical reading, while using off-the-shelf camera components that are easier and less expensive to manufacture than precision mechanical theodolite systems.
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
The system provides inexpensive, high-accuracy angle measurements by processing panoramic images to determine angular separations, offering improved precision and ease of use compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
receive light propagating from a first target along a first optical path and direct the light toward the imaging device and receive light propagating from a second target along a second optical path
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring an angle includes orienting a measurement device at a reference position characterized by a reference angle. A first panoramic image defined by a predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the first panoramic image includes an object. A first bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined and the measurement device is rotated to a measurement position characterized by a measurement angle. A second panoramic image defined by the predetermined range of elevation angles is acquired where the second panoramic image includes the object. A second bearing of the object in relation to the reference angle is determined. The measurement angle is computed as a function of the first bearing and the second bearing.