3D Model Creation Using Smartphone Lidar and Panoramic Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating three-dimensional models of physical spaces are expensive, time-consuming, and require specialized scanning hardware, often resulting in data gaps and inconsistencies that affect the accuracy of the model and subsequent design or construction costs.
Innovation Solution
A two-step process using a three-dimensional scan and panoramic image collection, leveraging lidar depth data and RGB sensor data, to generate a refined three-dimensional model of a space without the need for specialized scanning hardware, allowing for accurate surface reconstruction and seamless transitions between views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized scanning hardware is used to create three-dimensional models, then measurement precision and manufacturing precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a smartphone camera to capture multiple two-dimensional images of the physical space, which are then processed to generate a three-dimensional model. This copies the function of expensive specialized scanning hardware using a common mobile device, achieving comparable measurement precision through computational methods rather than specialized optics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical specialized scanning hardware with a software-based processing system that analyzes smartphone camera images. The mechanical scanning process is substituted with computational algorithms that reconstruct three-dimensional geometry from two-dimensional photographs, eliminating the need for expensive hardware while maintaining accuracy
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized scanning hardware is used to create three-dimensional models, then manufacturing precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent copies the functionality of expensive specialized scanning equipment using a smartphone, which is a low-cost device already owned by most users. This eliminates the need to purchase or rent specialized hardware while maintaining the ability to create accurate three-dimensional models for design and construction purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive smartphone cameras instead of expensive specialized scanning hardware. The smartphone, being a consumer device with low cost and high availability, replaces the need for expensive equipment, making three-dimensional modeling accessible to individuals and small businesses without significant financial investment
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional three-dimensional modeling methods are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images of the physical space using the smartphone camera before processing begins. These pre-captured images serve as the foundation for rapid three-dimensional reconstruction, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual measurement and modeling processes while maintaining precision through automated algorithms
4Measurement precision
If comprehensive data capture is performed to ensure accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs continuous image capture as the user moves through the space, with the smartphone camera continuously recording images that are automatically processed to build the three-dimensional model. This continuous action ensures comprehensive data capture of the entire space without requiring separate systematic measurements, maintaining both completeness and efficiency
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 quick and accurate creation of three-dimensional models using handheld devices like smartphones, reducing costs and time while ensuring comprehensive data capture, facilitating precise visualization and measurement for design and construction purposes.
Implementation Method 1
scanning the physical space using a lidar sensor, or other appropriately desired sensor, to collect lidar depth data
Implementation Method 2
acquiring an image of the physical space, where the image includes a panoramic image of the physical space
Data Source
AI summary
A method of creating a three-dimensional model of a physical space includes at a capturing device, scanning the physical space to acquire a three-dimensional scan of the physical space. Embodiments may also include acquiring a panoramic image of the physical space, where the panoramic image includes a complete panoramic image or first person view of the physical space. Embodiments may also include processing the three-dimensional scan of the physical space to generate a three-dimensional surface reconstruction of the physical space. Embodiments may also include mapping the complete panoramic image or first person view onto the three-dimensional surface reconstruction of the physical space to create the three-dimensional model of the physical space.