Photogrammetry Target Holder with Magnetic Attachment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing photogrammetric target systems face challenges in manufacturing precision due to minor assembly imprecision, leading to measurement inaccuracies, particularly with reflective materials where handling can cause errors.

Innovation Solution

A target system with a target holder featuring an aperture and annular protruding rim for precise positioning, using a flat disk with adhesive, static, or magnetic attachment to secure target paper, which is made of non-vinyl material to prevent creep and ensure accuracy, and includes a magnetic cover for protection and easy removal for replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional adhesive attachment methods are used for target paper, then initial positioning is achieved, but creep and undesired movement occur over time leading to measurement inaccuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget positioning accuracyVSAvoidmask attachment stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical adhesive attachment system with a magnetic attachment system. The magnetic cover assembly uses magnetic attraction forces to hold the target paper and mask in place, eliminating the creep and undesired movement problems associated with adhesive bonding. This mechanical-to-magnetic substitution maintains initial positioning accuracy while providing long-term stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If reflective target materials are used for precise measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but handling sensitivity increases causing assembly errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotogrammetric measurement accuracyVSAvoidtarget assembly handling

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic attachment system allows the target components to self-align and self-secure without requiring precise manual positioning. The magnetic attraction automatically holds the mask and target paper in the correct positions, reducing the skill level and care needed during assembly and handling while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If vinyl material is used for target paper, then flexibility is achieved, but creep occurs leading to edge distortion and inaccuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget paper flexibilityVSAvoidtarget edge accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter from vinyl to paper for the target paper. Paper material does not exhibit the creep behavior of vinyl, maintaining crisp, clean edges and dimensional stability over time. This material substitution preserves flexibility while eliminating the distortion problems that compromise manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Ease of repair

If target components are made removable for replacement, then maintenance ease is improved, but positioning precision may be compromised upon reassembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget piece replacement easeVSAvoidreassembly positioning accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic attachment system enables easy removal and reattachment of target components while maintaining precise positioning. The magnetic attraction automatically repositions the mask and target paper correctly when reattached, eliminating the positioning errors that typically occur with mechanical fastening methods during reassembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The solution enhances measurement accuracy by reducing handling-induced errors, protecting the target paper from damage, and allowing for easy replacement of worn parts, ensuring consistent precision and reliability in photogrammetric applications.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic cover to magnetically engage the flat disk for the purpose of trapping the target paper between the magnetic cover and the flat disk

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic engagement: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

a flat disk to receive a removable target piece... attached to a flat disk via an adhesive, static, and/or magnetic attachment means

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive attachment: Adhesive

Implementation Method 3

attached to a flat disk via an adhesive, static, and/or magnetic attachment means

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStatic attachment: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS8764203B1Target assembly system and method

Publication Date: 2014.07.01 BRUNSON INSTR

AI summary

A target system and method for photogrammetry using a target holder is provided with a body including a flat face surface and an annular protruding lip extending upward from the surface around the perimeter of the body. Target paper is positioned on the surface and cut to size on the surface leaving a centered circle of target paper.