Image-Based Building Feature Measurement Using Reference Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for measuring building features, such as windows and doors, are time-consuming and prone to inconsistencies when different individuals take measurements, leading to errors in determining appropriate replacement components or coverings.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses an image of the building feature captured by a user to estimate measurements by locating and segmenting a reference object, allowing for accurate calculation of dimensions, which can be used to order standard-sized or customized products, with an error margin of less than 2 inches from actual measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used by employees or individuals, then measurements can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and subject to inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with an automated image-based measurement system. The system uses image capture devices to photograph building features and automatically processes these images through computer vision algorithms to extract measurements, eliminating the need for manual physical measurement and thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement consistency and time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the building feature and performs measurements on this copy rather than the physical object itself. This allows multiple measurements to be taken from the same image copy without additional time investment, improving both consistency and efficiency while eliminating variability introduced by different measurers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individuals take measurements, then coverage is improved, but inconsistencies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a single digital image copy of the building feature that can be analyzed repeatedly by different users or systems without introducing variability. This digital copy serves as a consistent reference that maintains measurement accuracy across multiple analyses, resolving the contradiction between measurement coverage and consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback mechanisms where measurement results can be reviewed, validated, and corrected. This allows multiple individuals to contribute to the measurement process while maintaining consistency through centralized validation and quality control protocols that ensure all measurements meet predefined accuracy standards.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing measurement estimates for a building feature include receiving an image including the building feature. The method includes receiving, by a server, an image, the captured image including a building feature. The server locates a reference object in the image. The method includes segmenting the building feature to form a segmented image. A measurement of the building feature is estimated based on the segmented image and the reference object. The estimated measurement of the building feature is output by the server.