Computerized three dimensional data acquisition apparatus and method
First Claim
1. An apparatus for obtaining a computer model of a large three dimensional object or space, comprising:
- (a) a reference frame establishment means for establishing a stationary local reference frame;
(b) model element selection means for selecting a model element from a computer menu of available model elements;
(c) a measuring means for obtaining data in the local reference frame on the dimensional properties of an actual element in a three dimensional object or space that is being modeled;
(d) a data transmission means for transmitting the data from the measuring means;
(e) a computer means for receiving the transmitted data and for creating a model of the actual element that becomes part of a model of the object or space as the data is acquired; and
(f) a display means for displaying a visual image of the model of the object or space.
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Abstract
An apparatus and method for creating a computer model of a large three dimensional object as data is acquired. The invention includes a measuring device, a computer that includes a computer aided drafting program, a data transmission device, and a viewing screen. The first embodiment of the measuring device includes a distance measuring device that takes measurements from a stable, moveable location. The location of measured points is calculated based upon the distance to the measured point and the orientation of the measuring device. In both the second and third embodiments of the measuring device, the location and orientation of the device is tracked by a microcontroller based on information supplied by an inertial measurement unit containing a plurality of linear and angular accelerometers. The second embodiment includes a distance measuring device and the third includes a measuring wand of a known length. The computer calculates the location of measured points with these two embodiments based upon the distance to the measured point as well as the location and orientation of the device when the point is measured. The apparatus and method operate such that the user interfaces with the computer aided drafting program and uses the measuring device as an input device to enter data into the computer aided drafting program. Thus, the user may create a complete model of the object solely by taking physical measurements of an object or space without any limitations on movement around or through it.
218 Citations
14 Claims
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1. An apparatus for obtaining a computer model of a large three dimensional object or space, comprising:
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(a) a reference frame establishment means for establishing a stationary local reference frame; (b) model element selection means for selecting a model element from a computer menu of available model elements; (c) a measuring means for obtaining data in the local reference frame on the dimensional properties of an actual element in a three dimensional object or space that is being modeled; (d) a data transmission means for transmitting the data from the measuring means; (e) a computer means for receiving the transmitted data and for creating a model of the actual element that becomes part of a model of the object or space as the data is acquired; and (f) a display means for displaying a visual image of the model of the object or space. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4)
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5. A method for producing a computer model of a large three dimensional object or space, comprising the steps of:
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(a) establishing a stationary local reference frame; (b) selecting an element to be measured from a computer menu; (c) measuring the coordinates of a plurality of points on the element in the local reference frame; (d) inputting the coordinates of the points in the local reference frame to a computer program; and (e) displaying a visual image of the measured points and elements on a display means in the local reference frame as data on the points and elements is acquired and processed. - View Dependent Claims (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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Specification