Analyte Spatial Detection via Integrated Imaging and Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional analyte detection systems fail to provide accurate spatial information over a wide area, leading to potential harm by inadvertently directing people towards danger or causing unnecessary disruptions, as they are not capable of reliable and flexible spatial detection.

Innovation Solution

An analyte spatial detection system incorporating an imaging module, a visible light projector, and integrated sensors, which projects visible indicators on surfaces within a monitored volume to accurately depict the presence and extent of analytes, accompanied by audible alarms and electronic notifications, enabling real-time awareness of analyte presence and properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional analyte detection systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the spatial detection accuracy and area coverage are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial detection accuracyVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines an imaging module (camera) and a visible light projector into an integrated spatial detection system. The imaging module captures images of the monitored area, and the projector overlays visual indicators on the same area, merging detection and visualization functions into a single coordinated system that provides accurate spatial information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a processing system as an intermediary that receives images from the imaging module, detects analyte presence and location, and controls the projector to display spatial indicators. This intermediary processing layer enables accurate spatial detection and visualization without requiring direct complex interaction between the imaging and projection components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If conventional detection systems are used, then the device is simple, but it cannot provide real-time spatial information over a wide area

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time detection capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous monitoring through the imaging module that continuously captures images of the monitored area. The processing system continuously analyzes these images for analyte presence, and the projector continuously displays updated spatial indicators, creating an uninterrupted real-time detection and visualization loop that operates continuously without interruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting analytes, determining their spatial locations, and projecting appropriate visual indicators without requiring external intervention. The processing system autonomously analyzes images and controls the projector to provide real-time spatial information, eliminating the need for manual analysis or external control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If conventional systems are used, then the system is simple, but it may inadvertently direct people towards danger or cause unnecessary disruptions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection reliabilityVSAvoidharm from inaccurate detection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing spatially-specific visual indicators that are projected at the exact location where analytes are detected. Instead of providing generic alerts, the system displays localized indicators on the specific surface areas where hazards exist, enabling precise and reliable detection that prevents misleading people away from actual danger zones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

The system provides direct, reliable, and accurate spatial detection of analytes, enabling timely warnings and safe navigation away from hazards, reducing the risk of harm and minimizing unnecessary disruptions by projecting clear indicators of analyte presence and extent within the monitored area.

Implementation Method 1

The imaging module may include one or more sensor elements (e.g., one or more focal plane arrays of sensor elements or pixels) each configured to detect electromagnetic radiation in one or more selected spectrums, such as infrared, visible light, and/or other spectrums

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation detection: Infrared Radiation

Implementation Method 2

each configured to detect electromagnetic radiation in one or more selected spectrums

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

The visible light projector may include one or more of a scanning laser projector, a digital projector, an array of light emitting diodes, a directed light source, and/or other types of projectors configured to generate visible light and project it within a spatial volume monitored by the imaging module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Data Source

PatentUS10067071B2Analyte spatial detection systems and methods
Publication Date: 2018.09.04 TELEDYNE FLIR LLC
  • US10067071B2 patent drawing
  • US10067071B2 patent drawing
  • US10067071B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques are disclosed for systems and methods to provide reliable analyte spatial detection systems. An analyte spatial detection system includes an imaging module, a visible light projector, associated processing and control electronics, and, optionally, orientation and/or position sensors integrated with the imaging module and/or the visible light projector. The imaging module includes sensor elements configured to detect electromagnetic radiation in one or more selected spectrums, such as infrared, visible light, and/or other spectrums. The visible light projector includes one or more types of projectors configured project visible light within a spatial volume monitored by the imaging module. The system may be partially or completely portable and/or fixed in place. The visible light projector is used to indicate presence of a detected analyte on a surface near or adjoining the spatial position of the detected analyte.