Machine Learning Surface Measurement via Existing Reference Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Determining the actual size of damaged objects in images captured by mobile devices without a reference object is challenging, hindering accurate damage evaluation.

Innovation Solution

An image analysis and device control system uses machine learning algorithms to identify standardized reference objects within images, determining their dimensions and correlating them with pixel dimensions to calculate actual surface dimensions, and provides outputs such as damage size and repair estimates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a reference object is placed in the camera frame to determine actual size, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactual size determinationVSAvoidimage capture process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects and utilizes reference objects within the captured image without requiring the user to manually place or position a reference object. The machine learning engine identifies standardized reference objects (such as light switches, outlets, or other objects with known dimensions) that are already present in the scene, enabling the system to self-determine measurement scale without user intervention for reference object placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a machine learning engine as an intermediary between the camera and the measurement system. This engine processes the captured image, detects reference objects, determines their actual dimensions, and calculates the scale factor, thereby mediating the complex task of accurate measurement without requiring direct user involvement in reference object management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If machine learning algorithms are used to detect reference objects, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface dimension outputVSAvoidimage analysis system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The machine learning engine serves multiple functions within the system: it detects reference objects, determines their actual dimensions, calculates scale factors, and enables surface dimension measurements. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single multi-functional component, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate modules for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter approach from requiring physical reference objects to be manually positioned to using machine learning-based detection of pre-existing reference objects. This parameter change in the detection method enables accurate measurement while simplifying the user interaction process, though it does increase computational complexity which is managed through efficient algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250315868A1Processing system having a machine learning engine for providing a surface dimension output
Publication Date: 2025.10.09 ALLSTATE INSURANCE COMPANY
  • US20250315868A1 patent drawing
  • US20250315868A1 patent drawing
  • US20250315868A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and apparatuses for generating surface dimension outputs are provided. The system may collect an image from a mobile device. The system may analyze the image to determine whether they comprise one or more standardized reference objects. Based on analysis of the image and the one or more standardized reference objects, the system may determine a surface dimension output. The system may determine one or more settlement outputs and one or more repair outputs for the driver based on the surface dimension output.