Photogrammetric 3D Point Cloud Generation for Annotated Digital Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generating accurate digital images of large or inaccessible structures with superimposed intersecting grid lines and annotations is challenging due to the difficulty in obtaining precise measurements, especially in environments where physical access is limited or dangerous.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented process using photogrammetry to acquire digital images, generate three-dimensional point clouds, identify objects and features, and create two-dimensional stitched and annotated images with superimposed grid lines and annotations, employing reference objects for accurate scaling and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual measurement methods are used for large or inaccessible structures, then measurement precision can be maintained in controlled environments, but productivity is severely reduced and physical access becomes a limiting factor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems (physical tape measures, manual surveying equipment) with a photogrammetric system that uses digital cameras and computer vision algorithms to automatically generate measurements from images, eliminating the need for physical access while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates accurate digital copies (3D point clouds and 2D annotated images) of the physical structure from photographs, allowing measurements to be taken from the digital representation rather than the physical object, thus overcoming access limitations
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple individual measurements are taken to fully represent a structure, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but loss of time increases due to the labor-intensive nature of the task
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary photogrammetric processing to automatically generate the 3D point cloud and extract structural features before final measurement and annotation, reducing the time required for detailed measurements while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The photogrammetric system automatically identifies structural features, generates measurements, and creates annotations without requiring manual intervention for each measurement point, allowing the system to serve itself in the measurement process
3Measurement precision
If specialized training is required for producing precision drawings, then measurement precision can be maintained, but ease of operation decreases for untrained users
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs feature identification, measurement extraction, and annotation generation without requiring user expertise in photogrammetry or structural analysis, making the tool accessible to non-experts while maintaining professional-grade accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The photogrammetric system integrates multiple functions (photography, 3D reconstruction, measurement, annotation) into a single automated platform that works across different structure types and user skill levels, eliminating the need for specialized training
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 process enables the generation of accurate and efficient digital images with improved precision and reduced computational requirements, allowing for detailed representation of complex structures with measurable data, even in inaccessible areas.
Implementation Method 1
The process then photogrammetrically generates a three-dimensional point cloud of the site and/or the structure from the digital images
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and process for generating digital images of a site having a structure with superimposed intersecting grid lines and annotations. The process includes acquiring a plurality of digital images, still frames and/or video images of the site, the structure, or both, with each of the digital images. The structure, the site, and points of interest within the digital images are identified, and then the system and process photogrammetrically generates a three-dimensional point cloud from the digital images. The identified structures, objects and features are then used to calculate measurements and provide masking and annotations in order to generate the two-dimensional stitched and annotated digital image of the site and/or the structure.