Combined Imager Rangefinder Partial Image Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rangefinder devices, such as those described in US Patent 7,342,648, are limited in calculating ranges at a rate of only 15 to 25 times per second, which is insufficient for applications like drone reconnaissance, and adding a separate rangefinder to a drone helicopter is not feasible due to weight and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A combined imager and rangefinder system that includes an imaging sensor, an illuminator, and a controller, which operates in two modes: full image acquisition and partial image acquisition at a higher frame rate to determine ranges and rates of approach, using a video camera or FLIR camera with an illuminator that can be either a laser or LED, to calculate ranges and anticipate collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate rangefinder is added to the drone helicopter, then range measurement capability is improved, but weight and space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rangefinding function with the existing imaging camera by using the camera to capture reflections of laser beams. The controller processes these captured images to calculate ranges, thereby merging two functions (imaging and rangefinding) into a single device without adding separate rangefinder hardware to the drone.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging camera is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its original imaging function and the additional rangefinding function. The same camera hardware is used to capture both target images and laser reflection images, allowing the system to serve multiple purposes with a single component.
2Productivity
If the frame rate is increased to calculate ranges faster, then productivity is improved, but processor speed and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by capturing only the specific portion of the image that contains the laser beam reflection, rather than processing the entire image frame. This segmentation allows for faster processing at higher frame rates without requiring a more powerful processor, as only relevant data needs to be analyzed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial action by acquiring only the necessary portion of the image that contains the reflection information needed for rangefinding. This partial image acquisition approach enables faster processing and higher frame rates without the computational overhead of processing complete high-resolution frames.
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 faster range calculation without the need for a faster processor, allowing for timely altitude determination and collision anticipation, thereby enhancing the safety and efficiency of drone operations by integrating imaging and rangefinding capabilities within a single, lightweight device.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging sensor, which typically is a video camera or a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, is for acquiring images of objects in its field of view
Implementation Method 2
The illuminator directs a beam of light at least in part via the field of view
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2B
AI summary
combined imager and rangefinder includes an imaging sensor and an illuminator. The sensor acquires images of objects in a FOV. The illuminator directs a beam of light via the FOV. In a first mode, the sensor acquires full images of the whole FOV. In a second mode, the sensor acquires partial images, of only part of the FOV, that include a reflection of the light from one of the objects. The range to the object is determined from the location of the reflection in the partial images. Successive range measurements are used to determine whether a collision with the object is imminent.