3D Digitizer Probe Synchronization via Controller Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional digitizing systems are costly due to complex and expensive probes and trackers, which limits their accessibility and suitability for applications requiring lower costs or disposability.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a simplified probe that flashes light emitters autonomously, with synchronization achieved through a controller that processes images from optical sensors, using techniques such as shifting frame sequences based on image intensity or adding photo sensors sensitive to different light frequencies, allowing for reduced probe complexity and lower costs while maintaining synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If probes and trackers are simplified to reduce cost, then manufacturing cost decreases, but synchronization capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing intelligence and synchronization capability in the portable probe, the patent inverts the approach by centralizing these functions in the stationary controller. The simplified probe only contains basic light emitters, while the controller handles all synchronization tasks through image processing and frame sequence management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary synchronization mechanism where the controller captures images at variable frame rates and uses gap frames as mediators to synchronize with the probe's flashing sequence. This intermediary frame-based system enables synchronization without requiring complex electronics in the probe.
2Measurement precision
If controller intelligence is increased to achieve synchronization, then synchronization accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the probe's flashing sequence by capturing images at multiple frame rates and generating synthetic gap frames. This copied sequence allows the controller to synchronize accurately without directly interfacing with the probe's timing circuitry, reducing the controller's operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses periodic image capture at variable frame rates to create a rhythmic sampling pattern that mirrors the probe's flashing sequence. By capturing images periodically and inserting gap frames at expected flash intervals, the controller achieves synchronization through rhythmic periodic action rather than complex real-time processing.
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
This approach enables the use of lower-cost, potentially disposable probes and trackers, enhancing system intelligence in the controller to maintain synchronization, thus reducing overall system costs and improving accessibility for applications like medical or hazardous environments.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter that emits light at this different frequency. This photo transmitter is fired in sync with the flashing imaging emitters to signal the start or any other portion of the flashing sequence
Implementation Method 2
the controller is enhanced by adding a photo sensor of a type that is sensitive to the flashing light emanating from the probe
Data Source
AI summary
A simplified system and method for synchronizing a three dimensional digitizers is disclosed. Various three dimensional digitizers utilize detected light sequences received from a probe as a synchronization signal negating the need for complex synchronization circuitry and communication signals. One embodiment utilizes no transmitted synchronization signal, but relies on embedded, high-stability clocks to maintain synchronization after initial one-time synchronization of the clocks. In this manner the design of the three dimensional digitizer may be simplified.