3D Pointing Sensing Using Infrared Light Source Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D pointing technologies require separate devices like inertial sensors to calculate position and orientation, increasing manufacturing costs and limiting industrial applicability.
Innovation Solution
A 3D pointing sensing apparatus and method that uses an IR emitting unit, such as a remote control, to calculate 3D position and orientation by photographing and analyzing the images of first and second light sources, determining orientation and position without a separate inertial sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inertial sensors are used to calculate 3D position and orientation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source function from a separate sensing device and integrates it into the target object itself. By using the target object's own light source (or a simple attached light source) imaged through a pinhole, the system eliminates the need for complex inertial sensors while maintaining 3D position and orientation measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pinhole as an intermediary optical element between the light source and the image sensor. This simple pinhole structure enables 3D information extraction through geometric projection relationships, replacing complex inertial measurement mechanisms with basic optical geometry
2Measurement precision
If separate inertial sensors are added, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive inertial sensors with inexpensive optical components (pinhole and standard image sensor). The system uses basic, readily available components that can be manufactured at low cost, making the technology economically viable for widespread industrial application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the light source serve multiple functions: it provides illumination for the target object and simultaneously serves as the measurement target for 3D positioning. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensing devices, reducing overall system cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If inertial sensors are used, then 3D position and orientation can be calculated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into two independent parts: the target object with its light source, and the imaging system with the pinhole and sensor. This segmentation allows each component to remain simple while the system as a whole achieves sophisticated 3D measurement capability through their geometric relationship
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
Enables accurate calculation of 3D position and orientation using infrared pointing, reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing industrial applicability by eliminating the need for additional sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The image may be an infrared (IR) image generated when the image generation unit photographs the first light source and the second light source
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional (3D) pointing sensing apparatus may be provided. The 3D pointing sensing apparatus may include an image generation unit that may photograph a first light source and a second light source in a light emitting unit, and generate an image including an image of the first light source and an image of a second light source. Also, the 3D pointing sensing apparatus may include an orientation calculation unit that may calculate an orientation of the light emitting unit, using a size difference between the image of the first light source and the image of the second light source in the image.