High-speed railroad inspection using coordinated 3D cameras
US9049433B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 6, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 9, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06T2207/30108
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
To emulate the 3D visual acuity of an individual track-walker, matched pairs of cameras (which simulate our human eyes) are mounted on a moving vehicle above the tracks. The cameras are mounted both transversely and longitudinally, to create 3D images in two orthogonal orientations, which helps to eliminate visual voids. The location and orientation of each pair of cameras is determined by its specific task, in the present case: (i) to examine each left or right rail for anomalies (two pairs), and (ii) to examine every tie for damage (at least one pair). The camera pairs enable measurements such as defect depth and track width variations. The images are compressed in real time for local storage or high-speed transmission for remote display. The basic arrangement of cameras can be amplified or modified as necessary to circumstances.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.