3D Sensor Detection Region Setup Using Floor Reference Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for configuring 3D sensors for safe object tracking in industrial environments are complex, time-consuming, and prone to errors, particularly in meeting safety standards like EN13849 and IEC61508, making them inaccessible to automation.
Innovation Solution
A method for automatically configuring a 3D sensor system that identifies a detection region by locating a reference area, such as the floor, using 3D image processing and optionally a location sensor, to determine the position and orientation of the detection region, which is then refined through image sequences and user acknowledgment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration of protected fields is used, then safety coverage can be ensured, but the configuration process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically configures the detection region by identifying the reference area (floor) and calculating the detection region boundaries based on sensor position and orientation, eliminating the need for manual configuration by safety engineers while maintaining safety coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the reference area and sensor parameters before finalizing the detection region configuration, preparing all necessary data in advance to enable automatic and accurate setup without manual intervention
2Reliability
If manual configuration of protected fields is used, then safety coverage can be ensured, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of configuring protected fields with an automated computational system that uses image processing and coordinate transformations to automatically determine the detection region, dramatically reducing configuration time while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual model of the detection region based on the identified reference area and sensor parameters, allowing automatic configuration without physical manual setup while ensuring safety coverage through accurate virtual representation
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is used, then configuration can be customized, but errors are more likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying the detected reference area and calculated detection region to the user for verification and acknowledgment, allowing customization while reducing errors through automated calculation and user confirmation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automatic detection and calculation of the detection region before user acknowledgment, preparing the configuration in advance with automated error reduction while allowing final user verification for customization
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
Simplifies the configuration process, reduces user complexity, minimizes errors, and ensures compliance with safety standards by automating the detection region setup, enhancing safety and reliability in object tracking.
Implementation Method 1
The 3D sensor (10) records at least one 3D image
Implementation Method 2
The specific orientation of the 3D sensor (10) is determined by a location sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the automatic configuration of a 3D sensor for safe object tracking in which at least one 3D image is recorded by the 3D sensor, a detection region in which safety related objects can move is fixed within a detection zone of the 3D sensor using the at least one 3D image, and the object tracking is restricted to the detection region. In this respect, picture elements corresponding to a reference area, in particular a floor level, are identified in the at least one 3D image and the detection region is fixed with respect to these picture elements.