Staircase Renovation Element Design via Marker-Based Image Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for renovating staircases are often inaccurate, require specialized knowledge, and involve significant manual labor, especially when measuring for digital and accessible three-dimensional representations.
Innovation Solution
A method using markers positioned on staircase parts, captured by a recording device for image analysis, which calculates dimensions and produces renovation elements, reducing manual measurements and errors, and allowing for straightforward measurement independent of specialized equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional manual measurement methods are used for staircase renovation, then skilled labor and expert knowledge are required, but this leads to significant manual labor, time consumption, and high costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated digital measurement system using a recording device (camera) to capture images of the staircase. The system automatically extracts dimensional information from images through image analysis algorithms, eliminating the need for manual measuring tools and expert measurement techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to be self-sufficient by automatically capturing staircase images, processing them through image analysis, and generating renovation elements without requiring skilled personnel. The system performs all measurement tasks autonomously, from image capture to dimensional extraction to production data generation.
2Ease of manufacture
If replacement treads are placed over existing treads with overhang, then new treads can be installed without removing old staircase, but the overhanging portion must be cut off requiring additional labor and cleanup
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary digital measurement and modeling to precisely determine the dimensions and shape of replacement treads before manufacturing. By accurately capturing the existing staircase geometry through image analysis, the system calculates the exact dimensions needed, preventing material waste from unnecessary cutting while ensuring proper fit during installation.
3Reliability
If 3D modeling of staircase is performed using prior art methods, then a three-dimensional representation can be obtained, but this requires a high number of images and significant computational capacity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of capturing the entire staircase with multiple images, the system focuses on capturing specific critical regions (treads, risers, nosing) with a single image or minimal images. The image analysis algorithm then extracts only the necessary dimensional information from these partial views, reducing computational requirements while maintaining accuracy for renovation purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts only the essential dimensional information needed for renovation (tread depth, riser height, nosing dimensions) from the captured images, rather than performing complete 3D reconstruction of the entire staircase. This selective extraction reduces computational complexity while providing sufficient data for manufacturing replacement elements.
4Manufacturing precision
If expert knowledge is required for measuring and producing new staircase elements, then accurate measurements can be obtained, but this increases workload and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expert human knowledge with an automated image analysis system that uses computer vision algorithms to measure staircase dimensions. The recording device captures images and the processing system automatically extracts dimensional data, eliminating the need for skilled measurers while maintaining high measurement accuracy through standardized computational methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy or model of the staircase geometry from captured images, which can then be used to generate renovation elements without requiring physical measurement by experts. This digital replication preserves all necessary dimensional information while simplifying the measurement process to simple image capture and automated processing.
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 provides accurate, efficient, and labor-saving renovation of staircases by eliminating the need for manual measurements and specialized equipment, enabling quick and reliable digital measurement and production of renovation elements.
Implementation Method 1
capturing a single image of the staircase part and corresponding markers
Data Source
AI summary
The current invention relates to a method for producing a renovation element suited for renovating or replacing a staircase part, said method comprises a digital measuring step, comprising the extraction of information regarding the dimensions of said staircase part, wherein a plurality of markers are positioned on said staircase part and wherein said markers are captured by a recording device, and analyzing said image by means of image analysis techniques, thereby defining the dimensions of the staircase part, and based on said dimensions, producing a renovation element to be placed on the corresponding staircase position. The invention also relates to a method and a kit for producing a renovation element suited for renovating a staircase part.