Portable Imaging Apparatus for Precise Construction Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
In construction projects, laying out plumbing and electrical infrastructure below the slab is imprecise due to limited reference points, leading to time delays and costly corrections, as traditional methods like strings and tape measures are inadequate for accurate placement of underground utilities and walls.
Innovation Solution
A portable imaging apparatus using lasers, projectors, and sensors to survey the construction site, overlay architectural plans onto the floor, and project accurate images for precise installation of utilities and walls, allowing for real-time adjustments and corrections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods like strings and tape measures are used for layout, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the measurement precision and manufacturing precision are insufficient leading to errors in placing underground utilities and walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D model copy of the construction site using laser scanning technology. This digital replica allows for precise measurement and layout planning without physically measuring every point on-site with traditional tools. The digital model can be manipulated and analyzed to achieve high precision in utility and wall placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems (strings, tape measures, physical chalk lines) with optical and computational systems. Laser scanners emit light pulses to capture spatial data, and software processes this data to generate precise digital models and layout information, eliminating the need for manual mechanical measurements.
2Productivity
If traditional layout methods are used, then the equipment is simple and easy to operate, but the productivity is reduced due to time delays for corrections and rework
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs layout planning and verification in advance using the digital 3D model before actual construction begins. All measurements, utility placements, and wall positions are determined and verified in the digital environment beforehand. This preliminary digital planning prevents errors during actual construction, eliminating the need for time-consuming corrections and rework on-site.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback by comparing the digital model with the actual construction progress. The laser scanning technology continuously captures the current state of the construction site and compares it against the planned layout in the digital model, allowing for real-time verification and immediate correction of any deviations before they become permanent errors requiring rework.
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 solution significantly reduces installation time and eliminates costly rework by providing precise measurements and accurate projections of architectural plans onto the construction site, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of underground utility placement and wall construction.
Implementation Method 1
Laser scanners which produce 3D representations in the form of point clouds are commonly known as laser radar, or LIDAR
Implementation Method 2
This concept is often used in mixed reality contexts, where information is overlaid on top of real world objects
Data Source
AI summary
The present device may project a building design drawing onto a floor to indicate substantially precisely where contractors should install their products on the construction site. The device scans the raw space, compares the proposed construction documents with the existing conditions and projects a full scale accurate image of the plan on a work surface of either gravel, dirt and/or concrete. The resulting image would allow installation of underground utilities and walls more quickly and with increased accuracy. This decreases the time needed for installation and reduces or eliminates the need for costly re-work necessitated by these common errors.