UAV Shading and Lighting Control for Outdoor Photogrammetry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Harsh sunlight and inadequate lighting conditions limit the quality and accuracy of photography for documentation and photogrammetry, necessitating data collection during overcast conditions or specific hours.
Innovation Solution
A UAV system equipped with a camera, shading system, and lighting system that can dynamically adjust light levels by moving between the target and light sources to provide optimal illumination and shading as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If data collection is limited to overcast conditions or early morning/evening hours to avoid harsh sunlight, then image quality is improved, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable shading structure as an intermediary element between the light source and the target area. This shading structure can be dynamically positioned to block or filter harsh sunlight, creating controlled lighting conditions without being limited by natural weather patterns or time of day, thus resolving the contradiction between image quality and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The shading structure is designed to be movable and adjustable, allowing it to adapt its position and orientation based on the sun's movement and specific lighting requirements. This dynamic capability enables continuous operation throughout the day while maintaining optimal lighting conditions for photography, eliminating the need to restrict data collection to specific hours
2Device complexity
If natural lighting conditions are relied upon, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision is worsened due to overexposed bright areas and underexposed shadows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable shading structure as an intermediary element between the light source and the target area. This shading structure can be dynamically positioned to block or filter harsh sunlight, creating controlled lighting conditions without being limited by natural weather patterns or time of day, thus resolving the contradiction between image quality and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the lighting parameters by introducing controllable shading elements that can adjust light intensity and distribution. By modifying the lighting environment through movable shading structures, the system achieves consistent, high-quality lighting conditions without requiring complex multi-source lighting equipment
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 reliable photography at any time of day and under varying environmental conditions, enhancing photography quality and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a shading system comprising at least one optical filter
Implementation Method 2
a lighting system comprising at least one light source
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system comprising at least one UAV platform and a user system. Each UAV platform can comprise a first camera system and a shading system. The user system can comprise a targeting system and a second camera system. The targeting system can select a target, the first camera system can detect the location of the target and at least one light source, and each UAV platform can move to an intermediary location between the target and one of the at least one light sources. Additional embodiments can include a lighting system on the UAV platforms to illuminate targets.