Video Positioning System for Construction Tool Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of positioning tools at construction sites is labor-intensive, error-prone, and costly due to the need for manual measurement and marking of precise locations, which slows down the building layout process.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing fixed position video imaging devices and a processor to determine the three-dimensional coordinates of tools, eliminating the need for manual measurement and marking by providing real-time location and orientation feedback to operators, allowing tools to be directly positioned at desired locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement and marking is used to position tools at construction sites, then operators can locate tools at predetermined positions, but the process becomes labor-intensive, time-consuming, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and marking operations with an automated optical-electronic system. Video imaging devices capture images of the worksite, and a processor automatically determines tool positions and provides feedback to operators, eliminating the need for manual measurement while improving both precision and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital representation (copy) of the physical worksite environment through video imaging. By processing these visual copies, the system can determine tool positions and provide guidance without requiring physical measurement, thereby reducing time and labor while maintaining accuracy.
2Reliability
If teams of workers perform manual layout and measurement, then tool positions can be marked, but labor costs and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual layout procedures with a simplified automated system. Instead of multiple workers performing sequential measurement and marking tasks, a single operator uses a tool equipped with sensors and feedback mechanisms that automatically guide positioning, reducing both labor requirements and operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool itself performs the positioning function by incorporating sensors that detect its location and feedback mechanisms that guide the operator. The system is self-guiding, eliminating the need for external measurement teams and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high positioning reliability.
3Measurement precision
If robotic total stations with laser beams are used to determine target positions, then dimensional coordinates can be measured, but the system requires fixed known locations and complex robotic mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex robotic total station mechanisms with a simpler video-based optical system. Instead of using robotic motors to track targets with laser beams, the system uses video imaging devices to capture positions and processes images computationally, achieving comparable precision with reduced mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of the worksite environment through video imaging and uses computational processing to determine positions. This virtual modeling approach replaces the need for complex physical robotic tracking mechanisms while maintaining accurate coordinate determination capabilities.
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 system significantly reduces labor and time required for layout, enhances precision, and minimizes errors, enabling faster and more efficient tool operation at construction sites.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of fixed position video imaging devices located at known positions and facing in known directions
Implementation Method 2
determine the three-dimensional coordinates of a tool or other object at the worksite
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for assisting an operator in positioning an operating element of any of a plurality of tools at a desired location at a worksite, includes a plurality of fixed position video imaging devices located at known positions at the worksite. Each of the imaging devices has a known field of view. A memory stores a digital image and dimensions of each of the tools, as well as the desired locations at the worksite for operating the tools. A processor is responsive to the video devices for determining the tool being viewed, and determining the position and orientation of the tool and the operating element of said tool. A radio transmitter transmits this to a receiver with the tool operator.