Utility Pole Measurement Using Epipolar Photogrammetry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for accurately measuring utility poles require cumbersome equipment and skilled operators, leading to time-consuming and resource-intensive processes, with inaccuracies often resulting from unskilled operators and the need for precise distance measurements.
Innovation Solution
A photogrammetric method using azimuth and tilt readings, distance measurements, and digital images to establish an epipolar model, allowing for accurate measurement of utility poles with basic equipment and reduced expertise, and enabling compliance checking and virtual modeling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photogrammetric techniques are used to measure utility poles, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but a photogrammetric operator with great expertise must be present in the field to capture images and data
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration and automatic feature detection, allowing the measurement apparatus to compensate for its own positional and orientational parameters without requiring a skilled photogrammetric operator. The automated processing of images and data replaces the need for expert manual intervention while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If traditional photogrammetric methods are used, then accurate measurements can be obtained, but the process requires cumbersome equipment and significant time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple measurement functions (distance measurement, angle measurement, image capture, and processing) into a single integrated apparatus. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate cumbersome equipment while maintaining the ability to obtain accurate measurements through automated coordinate calculation.
3Measurement precision
If traditional photogrammetric methods are used, then accurate measurements can be obtained, but the process takes significant time and resources at great expense
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with automated electronic and optical systems. The automated image processing, coordinate calculation, and measurement generation eliminate time-consuming manual operations while maintaining measurement accuracy, thereby significantly improving productivity and reducing resource requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring a structure includes acquiring azimuth and tilt readings at a first location and second location. Images of the structure are also acquired from the first and second location. The respective distances from the first and second locations to a first and second point on the structure are measured. A scale is established from two positions of the structure depicted in the first or second image of the structure. The distance between the first and second points on the structure is found using the established scale. This distance is used with the azimuth and tilt readings and measured distances from the first and second location to build an epipolar model of the structure. The structure may be a utility pole. Also disclosed are methods of assisting photogrammetric measurements and estimating the class of a utility pole, and methods of determining the compliance status of a utility pole.