Subsurface Structure Inspection Using Radar and Ultrasonic 3D Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current property inspection methods, including 2D and 3D surface scans, are inadequate for detecting damage beneath the surface of structures, such as roofs, leading to inaccurate assessments and potential undetection of subsurface issues like moisture accumulation or rotting layers, which can be masked by surface appearances.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing 3D scanners communicatively coupled with radar or ultrasonic sensing devices to detect subsurface information by transmitting pulses and receiving reflected signals, generating 3D data points, and estimating the condition of the subsurface, allowing for detailed inspection without the need for physical contact or surface interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 2D or 3D surface scans are used to inspect structure damage, then the inspection process is safer and more efficient, but subsurface damage such as moisture accumulation or rotting layers cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radar and ultrasonic sensing devices as intermediary tools that transmit electromagnetic or acoustic waves through the structure surface. These waves interact with subsurface features and reflect back, providing information about hidden damage without requiring physical contact or removing surface materials. The intermediary waves enable detection of subsurface conditions that optical methods cannot penetrate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical inspection methods (physical contact, manual examination) with non-contact sensing technologies. Radar and ultrasonic devices use electromagnetic and acoustic fields respectively to probe subsurface structures, substituting mechanical interaction with field-based interaction. This allows detection of subsurface damage without physical contact that could be dangerous or impractical.
2Measurement precision
If appraisers physically inspect the structure by climbing onto the roof, then detailed visual inspection is possible, but the risk of injury increases especially in hazardous weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy or model of the subsurface structure through radar and ultrasonic scanning. Instead of requiring the appraiser to physically examine the structure, the system generates 3D data points and images that replicate subsurface features digitally. This digital copy provides detailed inspection information without exposing the appraiser to physical hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical inspection with a non-contact sensing system. Radar and ultrasonic devices perform the inspection function remotely, substituting the need for human physical presence on hazardous surfaces. The sensing fields penetrate and map subsurface structures without mechanical contact, eliminating injury risk while maintaining inspection capability.
3Illumination intensity
If insurance companies use 3D scanners to get detailed surface views, then image quality issues are reduced, but damage beneath the surface still goes undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensing modalities into a single integrated system. Surface 3D scanning (optical) is combined with subsurface radar and ultrasonic sensing to create a comprehensive inspection system. The merged system simultaneously captures both surface geometry and subsurface conditions, providing complete structural information in one inspection process rather than requiring separate examinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface imaging to three-dimensional subsurface visualization. Radar and ultrasonic waves penetrate through the surface and map subsurface features in three dimensions, creating depth information that 2D surface scans cannot provide. This dimensional extension reveals hidden layers and subsurface damage structures.
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 enables accurate detection of subsurface damage and conditions, improving the accuracy of damage assessments and reducing the risks associated with physical inspections, particularly in hazardous weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, via at least one transmitter, pulses to at least one point of a plurality of points of the subsurface of the structure; receiving, via at least one receiver, one or more reflected signals from at least one point of a plurality of points of the subsurface of the structure
Implementation Method 2
transmitting, via at least one transmitter, pulses to at least one point of a plurality of points of the subsurface of the structure; receiving, via at least one receiver, one or more reflected signals from at least one point of a plurality of points of the subsurface of the structure
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and system for inspecting the condition of a structure, the structure is scanned with a three-dimensional (3D) scanner. The 3D scanner includes a sensing system having one of a radar sensing device or an ultrasonic detection device. The sensing system detects 3D information about a subsurface of the structure, and the 3D scanner generates 3D data points based on the information detected by one or more of the radar sensing device and the ultrasonic detection device. A 3D model is constructed from the 3D data and is then analyzed to determine the condition of the subsurface of the structure.