Active Identification Pattern for Low-Light Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification systems, such as barcodes and QR codes, require high light levels for fast and error-free identification, limiting their effectiveness in terms of distance and accuracy due to passive reflection-based methods.
Innovation Solution
An active identification apparatus with an optical detector and controller that converts the identification pattern into a time-resolved signal, allowing for a reduced laser beam intensity requirement and enabling the transmission of an identification signal independently of the scanning beam, using a combination of high-pass filtering and amplification to enhance detection range and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a passive reflection-based identification pattern (barcode/QR code) is used, then the identification can be implemented with simple structure, but high light levels are required which limits identification distance and increases energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional passive identification approach by making the identification pattern active. Instead of the detector passively receiving reflected light from the pattern, the pattern itself actively emits an identification signal in response to the scanning beam, fundamentally reversing the information flow direction and enabling longer detection distances with lower beam intensities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the detector and the identification pattern. The controller receives measurement signals from the detector, analyzes the temporal sequence, and triggers the identification signal emission. This intermediary enables complex temporal analysis and signal processing that transforms the simple reflection detection into an active identification system
2Productivity
If a passive reflection-based identification pattern is used, then the device complexity is low, but the identification speed and reliability are reduced due to dependence on reflected light levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic temporal analysis by analyzing the time sequence of measurement signals from the detector. The controller evaluates how the measurement signal changes over time as the scanning beam passes over the identification pattern, enabling faster and more reliable identification through temporal dynamics rather than static spatial analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the measurement signal temporal sequence and uses this information to control the emission of the identification signal. This feedback loop ensures reliable identification by adapting the identification signal emission based on the actual detected signal characteristics
3Reliability
If high light levels are used for passive reflection identification, then fast and error-free identification is achieved, but energy consumption increases and the system is less robust in varying light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action through the scanning beam that periodically illuminates the identification pattern. The pattern responds by emitting identification signals in a periodic manner synchronized with the scanning beam passages, enabling reliable identification through repeated temporal sampling without requiring continuously high light levels
Solution Approach 2:
The identification pattern serves itself by actively generating the identification signal in response to the scanning beam. Instead of requiring external high-power illumination and complex reflection analysis, the pattern autonomously produces the identification signal when stimulated, reducing overall system energy consumption while maintaining reliability
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
This approach allows for faster and more reliable identification over greater distances with lower laser power requirements, reducing errors and improving the robustness and cost-effectiveness of the identification process.
Implementation Method 1
an optical detector (1), having a detection area (1a) with an identification pattern (7) that partly covers the detection area (1a)
Implementation Method 2
The identification pattern is therefore preferably embodied to reflect and/or absorb the scanning beam
Implementation Method 3
the identification pattern is therefore preferably embodied to reflect and/or absorb the scanning beam
Data Source
AI summary
An identification device is provided having an optical detector (1), a controller (5) and an identification transmitter unit (6), wherein the optical detector (1) has a detection area with an identification pattern partially covering the detection area and the controller (5) is designed to interact with the detector (1) and the identification transmitter unit (6) in such a manner that the identification transmitter unit (6) can be activated to transmit an identification signal depending on an analysis of the temporal sequence of measurement signals from the detector (1). A method is also provided for identifying an object by an identification system.