3D Modeling from Optical Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D modeling techniques, such as laser scanning, are time-consuming and prone to human error, requiring multiple scans, post-processing, and additional data acquisition for surface information, which increases costs and time.
Innovation Solution
The method involves capturing optical data from a project site using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), generating a point cloud, classifying terrain and above-ground features, creating raster information, and generating a 3D model based on optically captured data, reducing the need for extensive data processing and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser scanning is used to capture project site data, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to multiple scans and post-processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical laser scanning system with an optical imaging system (cameras). Instead of using active laser beams to scan the environment, the system uses passive optical cameras to capture images. This substitution eliminates the need for multiple physical repositioning of scanners and reduces post-processing requirements, while still achieving accurate 3D model generation through photogrammetry.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical imaging system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it captures 2D images, extracts 3D point cloud data, and generates surface information all in a single operation. The camera system can capture both geometric data and surface properties (color, texture) in one process, eliminating the need for separate laser scanning and photogrammetry operations required by conventional methods.
2Measurement precision
If multiple laser scans from different vantage points are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple scans and data joining requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex multi-position laser scanning system with a single optical camera system. Instead of moving a laser scanner through multiple vantage points and manually joining datasets, the system uses a camera that can capture the entire project site from one location, eliminating the complexity of coordinate transformation and data fusion between multiple scan datasets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the project site into multiple capture zones that can be independently imaged by the optical system. Each zone can be captured separately and then automatically stitched together, providing complete coverage without requiring a single complex scanning operation. This segmentation allows the system to handle large project sites by dividing them into manageable image capture areas.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual conversion of point cloud to 3D model is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the optical imaging system automatically generates the complete 3D model without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically extracts point cloud data from images, classifies terrain features, and creates surface models through automated photogrammetry algorithms, eliminating the time-consuming manual process of creating surfaces from point clouds while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary automated processing steps including point cloud generation, terrain classification, and surface contour creation before final model generation. These preliminary actions are executed automatically by the system using algorithms that process the optical data directly, eliminating the need for manual surface creation steps and significantly reducing total processing time while maintaining precision.
4Manufacturing precision
If additional photographs are captured for surface information, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optical imaging system universal by enabling it to capture both geometric data (point cloud) and surface information (color, texture) simultaneously in the same images. Instead of requiring separate laser scanning for geometry and separate photographs for surface data, the single optical system captures all necessary information in one operation, eliminating additional data acquisition time and costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate processes of geometric data capture and surface information capture into a single integrated optical imaging process. The same camera system that captures 3D point cloud data also captures surface properties like color and texture in the identical images, combining multiple data acquisition functions into one operation and eliminating the need for additional separate photographing steps.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time and cost associated with generating 3D models by using optically captured data, providing faster and more accurate results compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
The optical sensor 1326 is configured to optically capture a project site
Data Source
AI summary
The subject system provides for the generation of a three-dimensional (3D) model from optical capture including the generation of the 3D model from point cloud data migration. The subject system includes generating a point cloud based on optically captured data of a project site. The subject system also includes generating raster information from the point cloud, and creating surface contours based on the raster information. The subject system also includes creating a 3D model based on the surface contours.