Portable Smart Data Input Device for Automated Work Print Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for site-specific planning and documentation, such as surveying worksites, are time-consuming, costly, and lack accuracy due to manual recording and separate transcription of geographic information and field notes.

Innovation Solution

A portable smart data input device (SDID) connected to a work management system (WMS) that uses GPS to collect and overlay real-time geographic data with field notes onto work prints, automating the generation of work orders and reducing manual transcription.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If manual recording and separate transcription of geographic information and field notes are used, then the process is simple to implement, but the time and cost of generating work prints increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEase of implementationVSAvoidTime for generating work prints

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines geographic information collection and field note recording into a single integrated digital process. The system merges GPS data, camera images, and text notes into one unified work print document, eliminating the need for separate manual transcription steps and reducing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (handwriting, physical measurement, separate document handling) with automated digital systems. GPS receivers automatically track location, digital cameras capture images, and software automatically compiles work prints, dramatically reducing the time required while maintaining ease of use through user-friendly interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If manual recording methods are used, then the equipment required is simple, but the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the data decrease

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEquipment simplicityVSAvoidAccuracy of geographic information

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual measurement tools (measuring wheels, hand-drawn maps) with GPS receivers that automatically and accurately track geographic coordinates. This substitution maintains simple equipment usage while dramatically improving measurement precision and data accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses digital cameras to create accurate visual copies of work sites, replacing manual sketching and description. These digital images provide precise visual records that improve data comprehensiveness while requiring only simple camera operation from the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If separate recording of geographic information and field notes is used, then the process steps are minimal, but the productivity and efficiency of the workflow decrease

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveWorkflow efficiencyVSAvoidSystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple data collection functions (GPS tracking, image capture, note-taking) into a single integrated system that operates seamlessly. The software automatically combines these different data types into unified work prints, improving productivity without requiring the user to manage complex separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal platform that handles multiple functions through a single interface. The system can collect geographic data, capture images, record notes, and generate work prints all through one device and software package, improving workflow efficiency while presenting a simple unified interface to the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 the time and cost of generating work prints while enhancing accuracy and comprehensiveness by automating data collection and integration with work management systems.

Implementation Method 1

a receiver which collects geographic position data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGPS satellite signal reception:

Data Source

PatentUS7904114B2Method and system for automated planning using geographical data

Publication Date: 2011.03.08 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P

AI summary

A portable device for collecting data at a geographic location and providing accurate, comprehensive, efficient and timely work prints. The portable device for collecting data at a geographic location, the device including a memory that stores preliminary site information associated with the geographic location; a receiver that receives geographic position data of at least one point at the geographic location; an interface that enables a user to input data corresponding to the received geographic position data; and a processor that supplements the preliminary site information with the received geographic position data and the corresponding input data.