Portable Range and Speed Finder Using Autofocus Lens Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for personal electronic devices to conveniently measure distances and speeds of remote objects, as traditional equipment like measuring tapes and radar guns are cumbersome and not always readily available.
Innovation Solution
A personal electronic device equipped with an automatic focus system, a lens, an imager, and a processor that captures images, focuses on objects, and calculates distances and speeds by detecting the lens position and time intervals between image captures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional equipment such as measuring tapes or radar guns is used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device portability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by integrating range-finding and speed-measuring capabilities into a single personal electronic device. The device uses its existing camera system and processor to perform both functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment and improving portability while maintaining measurement accuracy through computational methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems (measuring tapes, radar guns) with an optical-electronic system. Instead of physical contact or electromagnetic waves, the device uses a camera to capture images and a processor to calculate distance and speed based on image analysis and lens position detection, thereby eliminating bulky mechanical components and improving portability
2Reliability
If dedicated range and speed finding equipment is used, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity and availability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the existing camera system and processor already present in the personal electronic device to perform range-finding and speed-measuring functions. Instead of requiring separate dedicated equipment, the device uses its own resources (camera, lens, processor) to autonomously perform measurements, thereby reducing overall system complexity and improving availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of a camera, lens assembly, and measurement system into a single integrated device. By combining the existing imaging components with range-finding and speed-measuring capabilities, the patent creates a unified system that eliminates the need for multiple separate devices, thereby reducing complexity and improving portability
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 convenient and accurate measurement of distances and speeds using a portable device, reducing the need for dedicated range and speed finding equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a lens adapted to pass light received at the personal electronic device
Implementation Method 2
an imager adapted to capture images from the light passed through the lens
Data Source
AI summary
A range/speed finder can be incorporated into a personal electronic device. In one example, a personal electronic device includes an automatic focus system adapted to focus an image of an object and a processor in communication with the automatic focus system adapted to detect a distance of the object using the automatic focus system. The processor can be adapted to detect a speed of the object and/or a dimension of the object using the automatic focus system. Methods and systems for determining a distance, a dimension, and/or a speed of the object relative to the personal electronic device are also provided.