LiDAR Calibration of Construction Machine Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The calibration of construction machinery geometry is complex and time-consuming, often requiring specialized tools and trained personnel, leading to inefficiencies in the measurement process.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system using a mobile device with a LiDAR sensor, such as a smartphone, to capture multiple measurement points, determine a 3D model, and wirelessly transfer data to the machine's control system, eliminating the need for specialized equipment and manual data entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional specialized measurement tools (total stations, plumb lines, tape measures) are used for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement tools (total stations, plumb lines, tape measures) with an optical measurement system using a smartphone camera and image processing. The camera captures images of the machine component, and software algorithms automatically calculate calibration parameters from these images, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement equipment while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If traditional manual measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic image capture and processing workflows that prepare and analyze calibration data without requiring manual intervention at each step. The system automatically captures images, processes them through algorithms, and generates calibration parameters, significantly reducing the time required compared to manual measurement methods while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-calibration by automatically capturing images, processing the visual data, and calculating calibration parameters without requiring specialized operators. The smartphone-based system with automated image processing enables the machine to be calibrated by regular operators rather than requiring trained surveyors or measurement specialists.
3Measurement precision
If specialized measurement tools are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to perform calibration using a standard smartphone device with automated image processing software. The system automatically guides the measurement process, captures images, and calculates calibration parameters without requiring operators to have specialized training in using total stations or other complex measurement equipment. This democratizes the calibration process to regular machine operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a camera-based optical system that is inherently easier to operate. Instead of requiring operators to physically set up and use total stations, plumb lines, and tape measures, the system uses image capture and automated processing, significantly reducing the skill barrier while maintaining measurement precision.
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
Significantly reduces the time and cost of calibration by enabling machine operators to perform precise measurements without specialized tools, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The mobile device includes a LiDAR sensor. The LiDAR sensor is configured to detect multiple measurement points of the component, e.g., pivot points or characteristic points
Implementation Method 2
LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a method for measuring distance using the time-of-flight measurement of light
Data Source
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AI summary
A measurement system for calibrating a component (140, 150, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165) of a construction machine (100, 101), in particular an excavator, a bulldozer, a grader, a drilling rig, a pile driver or a trench cutter, wherein the component (140, 150, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165) has at least one degree of freedom, comprising the following features: a mobile device (200) with a LiDAR sensor, wherein the LiDAR sensor is configured to acquire multiple measurement points of the component (140, 150, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165) and/or the construction machine (100, 101) in order to provide position information for the to determine several measuring points of the component (140, 150, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165) and/or the construction machine (100, 101); a processor that is trained to determine a 3D model of the component (140, 150, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165) and/or the construction machine (100, 101) based on the position information for the several measuring points.