Laser Pattern Imaging for 3D Damage Assessment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in accurately inferring 3D attributes from 2D images and automating decision-making processes, particularly in unmanned vehicle applications, where precise data extraction and object classification are essential for damage assessment and mitigation.
Innovation Solution
The use of a configurable laser light pattern projected onto objects, interpreted by image processing software, allows for the auto-calibration and calculation of 3D properties from 2D images, enabling improved object classification and feature exposure, and facilitating 3D model creation and damage assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If 3D attributes are inferred from 2D images using conventional image processing, then the process complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability of 3D property calculation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A laser light pattern is introduced as an intermediary element between the imaging system and the target object. The known geometric pattern serves as a reference mediator that enables accurate 3D calculation from 2D images without requiring complex multi-view geometry or depth sensors, thus maintaining low system complexity while improving measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter space by projecting a laser light pattern with specific geometric characteristics (known shapes, sizes, and spacing) onto the target surface. This transformation allows the system to extract 3D information from 2D images by analyzing the distortion of the known pattern, achieving accurate measurements without complex processing algorithms
2Measurement precision
If a laser light pattern is projected onto the target object, then the measurement precision and 3D property calculation accuracy are improved, but the device complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laser light pattern projection system is designed to be multi-functional, serving both as a measurement tool and as a feature enhancement tool for machine vision. The same laser system can project different patterns (grid, dots, lines) depending on the measurement requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and minimizing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex active vision systems or multiple cameras, the invention uses a simple laser projector to create a known geometric pattern that is then captured by a standard 2D camera. The pattern acts as a copy of known geometry that can be mathematically related to the actual target dimensions, simplifying the measurement system while maintaining high precision
3Productivity
If machine vision automation is used for object classification and data extraction, then the productivity and efficiency are improved, but the reliability of automated decision-making deteriorates due to insufficient 3D attribute information
Solution Approach 1:
The laser light pattern is projected onto the target object before the imaging and measurement process begins. This preliminary action ensures that the target surface has enhanced geometric features and known reference patterns that facilitate more reliable automated classification and decision-making, providing sufficient 3D attribute information for machine vision systems to operate accurately
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 enhances the capability of unmanned vehicles to accurately assess damage and classify objects, supporting efficient data extraction and decision-making processes, thereby improving damage mitigation and insurance claims processing.
Implementation Method 1
produce a configurable, but dimensionally known laser light pattern to assist in determining attributes of an object
Data Source
AI summary
Unmanned vehicles can be terrestrial, aerial, nautical, or multi-mode. Unmanned vehicles may be used to survey a property in response to or in anticipation of damage to an object. For example, an unmanned vehicle may project a laser pattern and use information associated with the laser pattern to determine characteristics of the object.