Construction Layout Marking System Using Vision-Based Position Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional construction layout marking methods are labor-intensive, prone to human errors, and unsuitable for complex projects, especially due to environmental factors and high initial investment costs associated with advanced automated systems.

Innovation Solution

A layout marking system comprising a support frame, localization and positioning device, sensor unit, and control circuitry that uses sensory data and vision processing algorithms to dynamically operate a conveyor and actuator, allowing precise tracing of reference regions with minimal operator skill and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual measurements and marking methods are used, then labor intensity and time consumption increase, but equipment cost remains low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and marking operations with an automated system using sensors, computer vision, and robotic marking devices. The system captures images of the construction site, processes them through vision algorithms to identify reference regions, and automatically controls marking devices to trace layouts, eliminating the need for manual measurements and markings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-positioning and self-marking operations. The sensor unit and vision processing algorithm automatically determine the system's own position relative to reference regions, and the control circuitry autonomously controls the marking module to trace layouts without requiring continuous human intervention or skilled operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If advanced automated systems with GPS and laser scanning are used, then marking accuracy improves, but initial investment cost and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs cost-effective sensors and vision processing algorithms instead of expensive GPS receivers and laser scanning equipment. The system uses standard cameras and image processing techniques to achieve accurate positioning and layout tracing, providing a budget-friendly alternative to high-cost surveying equipment while maintaining sufficient precision for construction applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and isolates the essential function of positioning and layout tracing from complex surveying systems. By focusing only on capturing images, processing them to identify reference regions, and controlling marking operations, the system eliminates unnecessary components like GPS modules, laser scanners, and complex coordinate transformation systems, achieving simplicity without sacrificing core functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Measurement precision

If total stations with prisms are used, then positioning accuracy improves, but operator skill requirements and setup time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-positioning using vision processing algorithms that automatically identify reference regions and calculate the system's position relative to them. This eliminates the need for skilled operators to manually set up total stations, align prisms, and perform complex measurements. The system autonomously completes positioning tasks through image capture and algorithmic processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical total station and prism system with an optical vision-based system. Instead of using electromagnetic distance measurement and angle measurement with physical prisms, the system uses camera images and computer vision algorithms to determine positions, simplifying operation while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Manufacturing precision

If manual marking methods are used, then equipment cost remains low, but accuracy and consistency deteriorate due to human errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayout marking accuracyVSAvoidmarking efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual marking operations with automated robotic marking devices controlled by computer vision systems. The system captures images, processes them to identify reference regions and layout lines, and automatically controls marking devices to trace layouts with consistent precision, eliminating human errors in measurement and marking while maintaining high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12152879B1Layout marking system for tracing reference regions in a construction layout and a method thereof
Publication Date: 2024.11.26 RENTERIA RIGOBERTO
  • US12152879B1 patent drawing
  • US12152879B1 patent drawing
  • US12152879B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a layout marking system for tracing reference regions and a method thereof. The layout marking system includes a support frame, a layout marking module, a position controller, and a control circuitry. The position controller extracts an offset value based on applying a vision processing algorithm and determines a current position of a localization and positioning device in the construction layout based on the offset value. The layout system includes a control circuitry configured to receive a control signal from the position controller for operating an actuator based on the offset value. The control signal includes an operating distance and an operating direction. The control circuitry further dynamically operates the actuator based on the sensory data, the operating distance, and the operating direction, thereby operating the layout marking module to trace the reference region while the layout marking system navigates to the reference region.