LiDAR Payload Volume Interpolation for Obstruction Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing payload measurement systems, particularly those using line-of-sight scanners, face inaccuracies due to obstructions such as tarp support structures, bed reinforcements, and other equipment, which prevent effective measurement of partially obscured payloads.
Innovation Solution
A payload measurement system that employs a frame-mounted scanner with sensors to generate 3D data representations, an RFID reader for metadata, and a computer for interpolation between unobstructed data points to accurately determine the volume of partially obscured payloads, allowing for accurate measurements without removing obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If line-of-sight scanners are used for payload measurement, then measurement speed and convenience are improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to obstructions such as tarp support structures
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from traditional 2D scanning to 3D LiDAR scanning, capturing spatial data in three dimensions. This allows the system to measure payload volume by interpolating between unobstructed data points and accounting for obstructions in 3D space, thereby maintaining measurement speed while improving accuracy despite the presence of tarp support structures and other obstructions
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary processing layer that uses interpolation algorithms to bridge gaps in data caused by obstructions. By calculating intermediate values between unobstructed data points, the system recovers accurate payload measurements even when portions of the payload are hidden by tarp support structures, loading booms, or other equipment
2Measurement precision
If weigh scales are used for payload measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but cost and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional mechanical weigh scales with an optical/LiDAR-based measurement system. This substitution uses light pulses and computational algorithms to measure payload volume and calculate weight, eliminating the need for expensive, heavy, and maintenance-intensive mechanical scales while maintaining measurement accuracy through 3D scanning and interpolation techniques
3Ease of operation
If line-of-sight scanning is used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to obscured payloads
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary 3D scanning of the entire payload area before attempting measurement, identifying regions that are obscured by obstructions. This preliminary action allows the system to plan its interpolation strategy in advance, scanning for unobstructed data points that can serve as reliable reference points for calculating the volume of obscured regions, thereby ensuring measurement reliability while maintaining ease of operation
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 precise volume calculations of payloads by interpolating between unobstructed data points, providing accurate measurements even with obstacles present, and simplifies load tracking with RFID integration, reducing the need for costly weigh stations.
Implementation Method 1
The scanner is mounted near a top overhanging portion of the frame and includes one or two sensors. The scanner is communicatively connected to the network unit via a communication cable and a power cable. One sensor may be oriented to scan a width of the payload bed. This sensor may be a laser sensor (e.g., infrared laser scanner), LiDAR sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring a payload including a surface, the system comprising a sensor and a processor. The sensor is configured to generate a signal constituting data representing an unobstructed portion of the surface and an obstacle obscuring a portion of the surface. The processor is communicatively coupled to the sensor and is configured to identify data points in the data corresponding to the unobstructed portion of the surface, identify data points in the data corresponding to the obstacle, interpolate between some of the data points corresponding to the unobstructed surface adjacent the data points corresponding to the obstacle, generate interpolation data points corresponding to the portion of the surface obscured by the obstacle, and determine a volume of the payload based on the data points corresponding to the unobstructed portion of the surface and the interpolation data points.