Real-Time 3D Survey Modeling via Virtual Wire Frameworks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surveying methods face challenges due to inflexible data collection techniques, leading to errors in interpreting feature codes and selecting appropriate options from pre-defined lists, especially when workers lack knowledge of the codes' meanings, resulting in inaccurate data collection and 3D modeling.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a virtual 3D/4D modeling system that allows for intuitive data collection by generating a wire framework of surveyed objects, draping 3D images over them, and linking attributes to the wire frames, enabling real-time updates and data sharing, which reduces errors and enhances accuracy through a more intuitive and flexible data collection process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If pre-defined feature code lists are used for data collection, then data standardization is improved, but data collection accuracy deteriorates due to worker misunderstanding of codes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata standardizationVSAvoiddata collection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual 3D copy of the surveyed environment where feature codes are visually represented through 3D models and images. Instead of workers interpreting abstract codes, the system captures actual visual copies of features (buildings, trees, utilities) and links them to the surveyed data, eliminating code interpretation errors while maintaining data standardization through the structured 3D model framework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Device complexity

If traditional surveying data collection methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to manual data processing and error correction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidsurveying efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical surveying processes with automated optical and computational systems. Capture devices (cameras, LIDAR) automatically capture 3D images and measurements, while software algorithms automatically process the data, generate wire frameworks, drape 3D images, and create the virtual environment. This substitution eliminates manual data entry and processing, dramatically improving productivity while the system remains accessible through standard computing devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If detailed attribute data is collected for each surveyed object, then modeling accuracy is improved, but data collection time deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodeling accuracyVSAvoiddata collection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary automated data capture by taking multiple 3D images of each surveyed object from different angles and positions. The system pre-processes these images to automatically extract geometric features, dimensions, and attributes. This preliminary action captures all necessary detailed attribute data in a single surveying pass, eliminating the need for multiple separate measurements and significantly reducing data collection time while maintaining high modeling accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9466144B23D mapping of a surveyed environment
Publication Date: 2016.10.11 TRIMBLE INC
  • US9466144B2 patent drawing
  • US9466144B2 patent drawing
  • US9466144B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A real time 3D survey site modeler is disclosed. One embodiment includes a survey data collector to collect survey data for a location and obtain information for each object that is surveyed. In addition, a 3D model creator receives the collected survey data and creates a 3D model of the world being surveyed in real time.