Camera Detection of Light-Modulated Signals for Pixel-Level Device Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods are inadequate for automatically detecting and identifying small mobile devices from a distance in video streams, particularly in immersive gaming and geomatic applications, where devices appear as tiny objects or single pixels, and require manual confirmation of hits, which is tedious and delayed.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using light-modulated signals, where devices emit unique light signals detectable by a camera, enabling pixel-level detection and identification through signal recognition algorithms, combined with wireless communication and geolocation, allowing real-time tracking and augmented reality enhancements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual confirmation of hits is used in gaming applications, then identification accuracy can be verified, but the process becomes tedious and delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual confirmation with automated optical detection. A light source emits light-modulated signals that are detected by a camera, automatically identifying hits without manual intervention. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with optical detection systems resolves the contradiction by providing both automated speed and reliable detection through signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light-modulated signals as an intermediary carrier between the game objects and the detection system. The light source modulates signals that encode information about object positions and identities, allowing the camera to automatically decode and confirm hits. This intermediary signaling mechanism enables reliable automated identification without manual confirmation delays.
2Length of stationary object
If devices are detected as tiny objects or single pixels from distance, then detection range is extended, but detection precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses light-modulated signals that emit specific wavelengths or color patterns to distinguish devices from the background. Even when devices appear as single pixels, their unique light signal characteristics (wavelength, modulation frequency) enable precise identification. This allows detection at extended ranges while maintaining precision through spectral rather than spatial discrimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic light modulation where the light source emits signals at specific frequencies or time intervals. This periodic action creates a distinctive temporal signature that allows the detection system to identify devices even when they occupy only a single pixel, maintaining precision through frequency analysis rather than spatial resolution.
3Reliability
If specific identification devices are required for tracking, then detection reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes mobile devices themselves multi-functional by using their existing light sources (flash, LED) for identification purposes. Instead of requiring separate identification devices, the smartphone's built-in light and camera serve dual purposes: communication and identification. This universality maintains reliability while reducing device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables devices to identify themselves using their own light sources. Each device emits light-modulated signals that encode its identity, allowing it to be detected without external identification tags or specialized components. This self-service approach maintains detection reliability while eliminating the need for additional identification hardware.
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 efficient, real-time detection and identification of multiple devices in a scene, facilitating immediate feedback in gaming and precise positioning in geomatic applications, while being immune to atmospheric conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A method and device using light-modulated signals, where devices emit unique light signals detectable by a camera
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method for detection of an emitter mobile device (B) equipped with a light by a receiver mobile device (A) equipped with a camera, comprising: the emitter mobile device (B) emits a light-modulated signal to advertise its identity or state; the receiver mobile device (A) captures a series of frames with said camera;the modulated signal is detected from said frames; the pixel position of the emitter mobile device on a within the camera frame of the receiver mobile device is detected.