Power Tool Positioning via Vision Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for positioning and operating power tools in construction settings are inefficient, leading to reduced productivity and increased labor costs, as they lack effective methods for precise tool placement and orientation guidance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a computing device with wireless communication, a camera, and reference markers that uses video and graphical information to guide power tools to desired positions and orientations, enabling precise tool placement and operation through a user interface that includes a display, app selection, and real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional power tool operation methods are used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but positioning precision and operational efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A computing device serves as an intermediary between the power tool and the user/environment. It receives video information from a camera, processes it to determine tool position and orientation, compares with desired positions, and provides guidance through display and audio outputs. This intermediary handles the complex image processing and decision-making, keeping the power tool itself relatively simple while achieving high positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical positioning methods with vision-based optical measurement. Instead of using complex mechanical guides, rails, or physical alignment tools, the system uses a camera to capture video information and computational algorithms to determine position and orientation. This substitution of mechanical systems with optical-electronic systems achieves higher precision while maintaining ease of operation.
2Productivity
If manual positioning methods are used, then the operation process is simple, but productivity is reduced and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback by capturing video information from the camera, processing it to determine current tool position and orientation, comparing with desired positions, and providing real-time guidance through display icons and audio instructions. This closed-loop feedback system enables operators to quickly adjust tool positioning, significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing labor time compared to manual positioning without feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service positioning guidance where the computing device automatically processes video information, calculates position deviations, and generates guidance instructions without requiring external measurement tools or complex manual procedures. The operator simply needs to follow the displayed visual and audio guidance, making the system self-sufficient and highly productive.
3Manufacturing precision
If visual guidance systems are added to power tools, then positioning accuracy improves, but the ease of operation may be compromised due to increased complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a visual copy or representation of the desired tool position and orientation on the display device. By showing graphical icons that represent the power tool's current state and desired state, the operator can easily understand positioning requirements without complex procedures. The visual copy simplifies the interaction between the complex vision system and the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device and audio output serve as intermediaries that translate complex image processing results into simple, intuitive guidance for the operator. Instead of requiring the operator to interpret raw video data or complex coordinates, the intermediary converts this information into easily understandable visual icons and audio instructions, maintaining operational simplicity while achieving high precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for facilitating power tool operation and positioning includes a power tool, remote detectable device attached to the power tool, a computing device communicating with the power tool to detect the location of the power tool relative to the computing device by detecting the location remote detectable device, and a display for displaying or inputting information into the computing device. The computing device is able to receive and store CAD dimensional data representing a layout of a work area and specific locations in that area where work need to be done. The computing device directs a positioning of the tool at a work site by comparing the position of the tool with the CAD layout position of a location where work needs to be done.