Parallel Laser Line Scanning for Precise Crack and Spalling Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crack and spalling detection methods in concrete structures are prone to subjective errors, inefficient, and challenging for small cracks and spalling area quantification, especially under complex field conditions, lacking high-precision and automated measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A parallel laser line scanning device with a laser source emitting parallel beams, a camera, and a controller using pre-trained neural networks to identify crack regions and spalling areas, determining subpixel crack widths and three-dimensional coordinates for accurate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection methods are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision and productivity are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated optical measurement system. A camera captures images of cracks, and image processing algorithms automatically measure crack width, eliminating the need for manual tools like crack scales and subjective visual assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement through automated image processing. The camera and processing software work together to automatically detect, measure, and quantify crack characteristics without requiring inspector intervention, making the system self-sufficient for measurement tasks.
2Measurement precision
If traditional image processing methods are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision deteriorates in complex environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through iterative image processing. The system processes images, evaluates crack detection results, and can adjust processing parameters or re-process images to improve accuracy, especially in complex environments with varying lighting and surface conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts image processing parameters based on environmental conditions. Different algorithms and parameter settings are applied depending on lighting conditions, crack characteristics, and surface properties to maintain high measurement precision across diverse environments.
3Productivity
If manual inspection is used, then ease of operation is high, but productivity and reliability are low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical crack through camera imaging. This digital representation can be measured, analyzed, and stored without physically interacting with the crack or requiring repeated manual measurements, significantly improving inspection efficiency and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual inspection operations with automated optical and computational processes. The camera captures crack images and algorithms automatically perform measurements, eliminating time-consuming manual procedures while maintaining or improving measurement reliability.
4Measurement precision
If single-camera imaging is used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision for crack width is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional image analysis to three-dimensional measurement by incorporating laser scanning. The laser line projected onto the surface provides depth information and scale reference, enabling accurate crack width measurement in three-dimensional space while maintaining camera-based imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser line acts as an intermediary reference element between the camera and the crack. It provides a known geometric reference that facilitates accurate measurement of crack width and spatial positioning, bridging the gap between simple imaging and precise measurement.
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
Enhances measurement accuracy and efficiency by minimizing pixel distortion and enabling rapid, objective assessments of cracks and spalls, particularly in out-of-plane buildings.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source configured to emit two beams of laser light in parallel to each other to scan a surface
Implementation Method 2
a camera configured to collect an image of the scanned surface
Data Source
AI summary
The application discloses a parallel laser line scanning device and a method for measuring crack width and spalling area. The device includes a laser source configured to emit two beams of laser light in parallel to each other to scan a surface; a camera configured to collect an image of the scanned surface, and the camera comprising a lens and an image sensor; a positioning rod; and a controller configured to process an image of scanned surface to obtain a pixel scale of a crack or three-dimensional coordinates of contour points of a spalling, and determine an actual crack width in the scanned surface according to the pixel scale of the crack, or determining an actual spalling area according to the three-dimensional coordinates of the contour points of the spalling. The device facilitates faster and more objective evaluations of building conditions, contributing to improved structural health monitoring and maintenance decision-making.