Coded Optical Localization for High-Precision 3D Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D localization systems face limitations in precision, size, weight, and power due to the reliance on spatial density of image sensing pixels and baseline between sensors, which restricts the achievable resolution and accuracy in estimating object location and orientation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of coded localization systems, where an optical array of elements overlaps field patterns, allowing mathematical weights to be applied across the array, decoupling resolution from pixel density, and enabling superior performance in size, weight, and power efficiency by determining spatial and angular resolution based on signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If spatial density of image sensing pixels is increased to improve localization precision, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter from spatial pixel density to temporal coding sequences. By using pseudo-random binary sequences (PRBS) modulated at different frequencies across multiple optical channels, the system achieves sub-pixel localization precision without increasing spatial pixel density. The localization precision is determined by the signal-to-noise ratio and coding sequence length rather than pixel density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional spatial sampling problem to a multi-dimensional problem involving temporal sequences, frequency modulation, and channel multiplexing. By encoding spatial information across multiple time-varying channels with distinct PRBS sequences, the system extracts sub-pixel localization data from temporal variations rather than spatial density.
2Measurement precision
If baseline between sensors is increased to improve 3D localization precision, then measurement precision improves, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the determining parameter for localization precision from physical baseline distance to the properties of coded sequences (length, frequency, correlation characteristics). By using long pseudo-random sequences with excellent autocorrelation properties, the system achieves high precision 3D localization without requiring large sensor separations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces coded modulation sequences as an intermediary between the optical channels and the localization measurement. These PRBS sequences mediate the information transfer, allowing the system to extract precise spatial and temporal information from the interference patterns without relying on large physical baselines.
3Volume of moving object
If lens diameter is decreased to reduce system size, then device size decreases, but image quality and information capture deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the limiting factor for image quality from optical aperture size to signal processing capabilities. By using temporal coding and correlation-based detection, the system maintains image quality with smaller lenses because the effective signal-to-noise ratio is enhanced through the processing of coded sequences across multiple channels rather than relying on large aperture light gathering.
4Measurement precision
If number of antenna elements is increased in radar systems to improve angular estimation accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal optical computing platform that performs multiple functions (localization, imaging, spectral analysis) using the same coded aperture and detector array infrastructure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision across different operational modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A coded localization system includes a plurality of optical channels arranged to cooperatively capture information from a scene. Each optical channel includes (i) a respective multi-pixel detector and (ii) a respective localization code, located between the respective multi-pixel detector and the scene, that modifies electromagnetic energy passing therethrough. Each localization code (i) includes at least one of an amplitude mask, a phase mask, and a polarizer, and (ii) differs from the respective localization code of each other of the plurality of optical channels.