Camera-Based Positioning Using Beacon Intermediaries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Global Positioning System (GPS) is ineffective in covered areas due to the inability of GPS-enabled devices to receive necessary satellite signals, making it difficult to accurately locate moving objects in such environments.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing cameras to capture images of beacons on moving objects, which process pixel-by-pixel analysis to determine positional coordinates within a fixed or known area, allowing for real-time generation of telemetry and performance metrics without relying on satellite signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS is used to locate moving objects, then positional coordinates can be obtained, but it cannot work in covered areas where satellite signals are blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces beacons as intermediary objects that are placed in the covered area to relay positional information. These beacons receive signals from external sources and transmit them to cameras, enabling positioning without direct satellite signal access. This intermediary system allows the GPS functionality to work indirectly in environments where direct satellite communication is blocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the GPS positioning system by using cameras to capture images of beacons and computationally determining positional coordinates from these images. Instead of relying on direct satellite signals, the system replicates the positioning function through image processing and coordinate calculation algorithms, effectively copying the essential functionality of GPS in a different form.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cameras and beacons are used for tracking, then positioning works in covered areas, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system multi-functional by using it not only for capturing images of beacons for positioning purposes but also for generating telemetry and performance metrics. The same camera infrastructure serves multiple functions: positional tracking, performance analysis, and data collection, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated devices and lowering overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple tracking functions into a single integrated system. The camera system simultaneously performs positional location determination, telemetry generation, and performance metric calculation. By merging these functions into one unified platform rather than using separate GPS devices, beacon transmitters, and analysis systems, the overall device complexity is reduced despite the added capability to work in covered areas.
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 and real-time tracking and performance analysis of moving objects within covered areas, reducing the complexity and cost of tracking devices and providing comprehensive performance metrics, applicable to various environments beyond swimming pools.
Implementation Method 1
cameras to capture images of beacons
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are disclosed for locating or otherwise generating positional information for an object, such as but not limited generating positional coordinates for an object attached to an athlete engaging in an athletic event. The positional coordinates may be processed with other telemetry and biometrical information to provide real-time performance metrics while the athlete engages in the athletic event.