Method and Apparatus for Mapping Three-Dimensional Features

University of Texas at Dallas
posted on 06/23/2010

• request more info 
•   
•  LICENSE ONLINE

A Method and Apparatus for Mapping Three Dimensional Features – A Cost Effective, Efficient and Accurate Solution

The Technology in Brief

World exploration, military, travel and social networking have fueled the need for 3D maps; however, cost, efficiency and accuracy remain the major concerns. This patented invention offers a novel solution by using reflectorless laser rangefinders to provide realtime three-dimensional mapping and overcome all the concerns.

Background

Near-vertical and overhanging features are difficult to represent spatially because a researcher must first locate a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver on the feature before it can be located. These features may be difficult or impossible to accurately measure because of rugged terrain. Even if it is possible with a 3D photorealistic model, accuracy and cost effectiveness remain the main concerns.

This mapping apparatus is cost effective and accurate, is not constrained by a vertical camera angle, does not require a researcher to physically locate a GPS receiver on a geological feature, does not require a researcher to process data in the laboratory, and does not fail to integrate useful information into a photorealistic model.

Description of Invention

The patented invention provides a three-dimensional mapping apparatus that has a signal emitter to deliver a signal to a target having at least one attribute. The attribute may be a vertical face, a fissure, an overhang or outcrop. The mapping apparatus may also have a signal receiver to receive the signal reflected by the attribute. A signal processor may calculate a coordinate of the attribute relative to a global coordinate.

The laser sketch allows the user to rapidly outline in 3D space features of interest by the user aiming at target and manually sweeping a continuous pulsing reflectorless laser rangefinder (RLR) with vertical and horizontal angle measuring capabilities across specific features. It captures features in 3D space geometrically and when tied to a position by satellite positioning, captures it geographically. The data is identified by tying the data points to specific descriptions or attributes. Such continuous mapping allows the user to utilize closely spaced data to error check the data, to better define specific 3D shapes statistically and also to utilize such data in real time for display and analysis.

The invention offers geological mapping of specific features and real time analysis of 3D information such as computing strikes and dips in the field.

Benefits

·         Efficient, accurate and cost effective solution

·         Real time analysis

·         Need not physically locate a GPS receiver on geological target

·         Ability to integrate useful information into a photorealistic model

Applications

·         Oil, mineral and engineering industries

·         Landscape architecture and civil engineering for planning

·         Academic institutions for teaching geosciences and engineering

·         Advanced GPS receivers/navigators

·         Military applications

IP Status

·         United States Patent 6,590,640 Issued Jul. 08, 2003, titled "Method and apparatus for mapping three-dimensional features"

Inventors

·         Aiken V Carlos L. Professor, Department of Geosciences, UT Dallas

·         Xu, Xueming, UT Dallas

Licensing Opportunity

This technology is available for non-exclusive licensing.

Please contact: otc@utdallas.edu

Reference No.: UTD-00-018

Browse all available UTD technologies at http://utdallas.technologypublisher.com/