Laser Distance Meter Indirect Measurement via Camera Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser distance measuring devices face challenges in accurately determining indirect distances between points that are not in direct line of sight or are inaccessible, particularly in scenarios where the user cannot reach the target points directly.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a hand-held laser distance measuring device that combines a laser distance measuring unit with a camera to record images of the target environment, superimposing a connecting line on the display between the first and second target points, allowing for intuitive and precise indirect distance measurement through image processing and trigonometric calculations, while enabling real-time updates and high processing speed for user-friendly operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If indirect distance measurement is performed using multiple laser beams and image processing, then measurement capability is improved for inaccessible points, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser distance measuring unit and camera into a single integrated device with a common housing. The laser beam emitting device and camera are arranged such that they share the same optical axis or closely aligned viewing direction, allowing the device to perform both distance measurement and image capture functions simultaneously. This integration reduces the need for separate instruments and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing unit that acts as an intermediary to process image data from the camera and calculate indirect distances. The computing unit receives images, identifies target points, performs coordinate transformations, and calculates distances using trigonometric relationships. This intermediary processing layer handles the complexity of indirect measurement calculations, keeping the device operation simple for users while enabling advanced measurement capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If indirect distance measurement is performed using multiple laser beams and image processing, then measurement capability is improved for inaccessible points, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically performs image capture, target point identification, coordinate calculation, and distance computation without requiring manual intervention for each step. The computing unit autonomously processes the captured images, identifies relevant target points, and calculates indirect distances using the stored first distance value and image geometry. This self-service automation eliminates complex manual operations while maintaining advanced measurement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by first measuring and storing the distance to a reference point (first target point) before performing indirect measurements. The device pre-processes images to identify target points and pre-calculates coordinate systems and transformation parameters. This preliminary preparation simplifies subsequent indirect measurements, as the device already has the necessary reference data and processed information ready for quick calculation.
3Measurement precision
If real-time image display with connecting line is implemented, then user comfort and measurement accuracy are improved, but processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device displays only the essential information needed for accurate measurement - specifically the connecting line between target points and relevant distance values - rather than processing and displaying all possible image data. The computing unit focuses on calculating and displaying the specific geometric relationships (connecting lines, distances) that directly contribute to measurement accuracy, performing partial processing that is sufficient for the measurement task without unnecessary computational overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement procedures with computational methods. Instead of requiring physical measurement of multiple segments and manual calculation of indirect distances, the device uses image processing and trigonometric calculations to directly compute the connecting line and distance. The computing unit performs rapid mathematical operations to substitute for what would otherwise require time-consuming manual measurement and calculation procedures.
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 quick, accurate, and intuitive measurement of indirect distances by displaying the connecting line between target points in real-time, enhancing user comfort and reducing the risk of incorrect measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a first distance to a first target point is determined using a laser distance measuring unit of the laser distance measuring device by emitting a laser beam
Implementation Method 2
From a phase comparison performed between the emitted laser radiation and the laser radiation reflected from the surface of the target object, a light travel time can be determined, and the desired distance between the laser distance meter and the target object
Implementation Method 3
A returning beam reflected or scattered by the targeted target object is at least partially detected by the laser distance measuring device
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a laser distance measuring device (10), in particular a hand-held laser distance measuring device (10), based on a method in which a first distance (28a) from a first target point (30a) is determined with a laser distance measuring unit of the laser distance measuring device (10) by emitting a laser beam (20a) in a first distance measuring direction (24a), and subsequently, at least one second distance (24b) from a second intended target point (30b) is determined. According to the invention, an image (34b, 52a, 52b) at least of the target environment (36a, b) of the second target point (30b), captured by a camera (32) of the laser distance measuring device (10), is displayed on a display (14) of the laser distance measuring device (10), wherein at least one part of a connection line (50) is represented overlapping with the image (34b, 52a, 52b), said connection line connecting the first target point (30a) and the second target point (30b) in the displayed image (34b, 52a, 52b). The invention also relates to a laser distance measuring device (10) for carrying out the method.