3D Surface Scanning via Digital Model Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for evaluating equipment like pipes and tanks are often manual and inefficient, relying on single-point measurements or scans that lack comprehensive data correlation in three-dimensional space.
Innovation Solution
The system generates a computer model of a three-dimensional object, correlating points with three-dimensional space, and uses this model to collect and associate measurement data, enabling automated scanning and data representation in both three-dimensional and two-dimensional formats, with augmented-reality tools guiding sensors for precise data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual single-point measurements are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and data comprehensiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (computer model) of the physical object's surface geometry. This digital model serves as a virtual representation that can be manipulated, analyzed, and correlated with measurement data without requiring complex physical measurement systems. The copying principle allows simple sensors to achieve precise measurements by referencing the digital model.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a combination of simple sensors and computational processing. Instead of using sophisticated mechanical probing systems, the invention uses basic sensors paired with computer models and algorithms to achieve precise three-dimensional surface measurements and data correlation.
2Productivity
If automated scanning systems are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning and self-correlation by automatically tracking sensor location and orienting it relative to the computer model. The automated scanning system uses the digital model itself to guide the measurement process, correlate data points, and maintain measurement accuracy without requiring complex external positioning infrastructure or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer model acts as an intermediary between the simple sensor and the complex task of three-dimensional surface measurement and data correlation. This digital model mediates the measurement process by providing a reference framework that enables automated scanning and precise data association without requiring the sensor itself to be complex.
3Measurement precision
If three-dimensional space correlation is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface representations to three-dimensional space correlation by incorporating depth and spatial positioning information. The computer model and measurement system operate in three dimensions, allowing precise correlation of measurement data with specific locations on complex curved surfaces, thereby improving measurement precision for three-dimensional objects.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for collecting measurement data for a three-dimensional object. In embodiments, a computer model of the three-dimensional object is generated that correlates points on the three-dimensional object with points in three-dimensional space; the computer model is used to collect measurement data of the three-dimensional object and associate the collected measurement data with points in three-dimensional space; and a plan view computer model of the three-dimensional object is generated that depicts the measurement data in two dimensions and that associates the depicted measurement data with points in three-dimensional space.