Mobile Bracket Selection via Image Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
In construction, selecting and evaluating the appropriate brackets and their fastening configurations is challenging due to the vast number of combinations of structural components, bracket types, sizes, and fastening combinations, leading to a risk of using incorrect brackets or configurations, which can reduce the load capability of connections.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method on a mobile device for selecting and evaluating bracket connections by scanning barcodes, inputting IDs, or recording images to determine the specific bracket type or configuration, and calculating the maximum load capability based on properties such as material and fastening configurations, with options for presenting results using augmented reality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a vast variety of bracket types, sizes, and fastening configurations are provided to fit different structural elements, then the adaptability and versatility of brackets are improved, but the complexity of selecting and correctly using the appropriate bracket increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device application as an intermediary between the worker and the vast array of bracket options. The application automatically identifies structural elements via image capture, determines suitable bracket configurations, and guides the selection process, thereby mediating the complexity between diverse bracket options and user decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing workers to independently identify structural elements through image capture, automatically receive bracket recommendations, and inspect installed brackets without requiring expert knowledge or manual reference to complex catalogs. The application performs automated identification, evaluation, and guidance functions
2Ease of operation
If workers are responsible for selecting and correctly configuring brackets themselves, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of correct bracket selection and installation decreases due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The application implements feedback mechanisms by capturing images of installed brackets, automatically evaluating whether the correct bracket type and fastening configuration were used, and providing immediate guidance corrections. This closed-loop feedback system maintains worker autonomy while ensuring reliable, accurate bracket selection and installation through automated verification
3Productivity
If manual inspection and evaluation of bracket connections are performed, then the productivity is maintained, but the measurement precision of load capability assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and expert assessment with an automated digital system using mobile device image capture and processing. The application automatically identifies bracket types, evaluates fastening configurations, and assesses load capabilities through computational analysis, substituting mechanical human inspection with automated optical and computational systems to achieve both high productivity and precise measurement
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for deciding on a bracket connection is provided. The method comprises selecting one of a specific bracket type or a specific configuration of a supported member and a supporting member, identifying, based on the selected bracket type if such is selected, at least one configuration of a supported member and a supporting member associated with the selected bracket type, or, based on the selected specific configuration of a supported member and a supporting member if such is selected, at least one bracket type being associated with the configuration of the supported member and the supporting member, the bracket and the configuration of the supported member and the supporting member together forming a bracket connection, and determining one or more properties of the identified bracket connection.