Remote Crack Measurement Using Laser Pattern Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for measuring crack length and width in buildings are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and lack accuracy, especially in hard-to-reach locations, and current image recognition methods struggle with providing reliable real parameters without reference scales.
Innovation Solution
A method using laser beams to project patterns onto cracks, allowing for remote measurement by adjusting the laser projector's angles to align with the crack, taking pictures, and processing images to calculate crack parameters without requiring physical proximity or reference objects, utilizing the low dispersion property of laser beams for accurate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods (handheld crack gauges or ultrasonic inspection) are used, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (handheld crack gauges) and complex ultrasonic inspection equipment with a simplified optical measurement system using laser projectors and digital cameras. This substitution maintains measurement accuracy while dramatically improving efficiency by enabling remote, non-contact measurement of multiple cracks simultaneously through image processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (photograph) of the crack and its surrounding area, then performs measurements on this copy through image processing. This allows multiple measurements to be taken from the same image without requiring physical contact or repeated positioning, thereby improving productivity while maintaining precision
2Productivity
If image recognition methods are used to extract crack information, then measurement speed is improved, but the real parameters cannot be obtained without reference scales
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by projecting a laser pattern with known geometric dimensions onto the wall surface before capturing the crack image. This pre-established reference framework allows direct conversion of pixel measurements to real-world dimensions without requiring additional reference scales or post-processing calibration, thereby maintaining both speed and precision
3Ease of operation
If remote measurement is implemented, then safety and convenience are improved, but measurement accuracy may be compromised due to distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a laser pattern as an intermediary element between the measurement system and the crack. This laser pattern serves as a known reference that bridges the distance gap, allowing accurate scale calculation and dimension measurement even when the camera is positioned remotely from the crack, thus maintaining both convenience and precision
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
Enables safe, convenient, and accurate remote measurement of crack length and width, suitable for unmanned monitoring systems, with rapid data transmission and analysis, reducing errors and increasing efficiency in crack assessment.
Implementation Method 1
By taking advantage of the low dispersion property of laser beams, measurement can be done remotely without influencing its accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for measuring cracks remotely and the device thereof. First, multiple laser spots with known a shape are projected onto a remote wall and beside a crack. Then, by using geometric calculations, the relative coordinates of the laser spots on the wall and the real distance can be given and used as the reference length of the crack. Next, a camera is used for taking a picture of the remote crack along with the laser spots; the image identification technology is used for calculating the relevant parameters of the crack. Thereby, to acquire the parameters of the crack, a user needs not to be present at the site for measuring at a short distance or placing a reference object, and thus providing safety and convenience.