Distance Measuring Device Waveform Dividing Point Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance measuring devices struggle to accurately detect the dividing point between peak waveforms when objects are close together, leading to lower measurement accuracy due to the connection of waveforms forming a gently sloping line, as seen in devices like JP 4697072 B.
Innovation Solution
A distance measuring device with a signal output unit, detection unit, waveform dividing unit, and distance calculation unit that detects the top and bottom of waveforms, using predetermined determination values to identify the dividing point between peak waveforms, allowing for precise calculation of object distance based on peak waveforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional waveform detection methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates when objects are close together due to waveform connection forming gently sloping lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the waveform detection process into distinct phases: peak detection, slope detection, and dividing point identification. By dividing the continuous waveform into discrete detectable features (peaks, slopes, troughs), the system can accurately distinguish between connected waveforms from multiple objects, thereby improving measurement precision without excessive complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of peak points and slope characteristics before final dividing point determination. By pre-identifying key waveform features and storing their characteristics, the system prepares necessary information in advance to accurately separate connected waveforms, improving measurement accuracy while managing computational complexity
2Reliability
If simple peak detection is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability deteriorates due to erroneous divisions caused by noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where detected peak points and slope characteristics are used to validate and adjust dividing point identification. The system continuously monitors waveform features and uses previously detected characteristics to confirm or correct dividing point locations, thereby improving reliability by reducing erroneous divisions caused by noise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes detection parameters dynamically based on waveform characteristics. By adjusting detection thresholds and criteria based on observed peak and slope features, the system adapts to varying signal conditions, improving reliability in noisy environments while managing detection complexity through intelligent parameter selection
3Measurement precision
If conventional distance calculation methods are used, then the processing speed is high, but the measurement precision deteriorates when multiple objects are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process into distinct stages (peak detection, slope analysis, dividing point identification, distance calculation), allowing each stage to be optimized independently. This segmentation enables precise handling of multiple objects while maintaining efficient processing through systematic progression through detection stages
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary identification and separation of waveforms from multiple objects before final distance calculation. By pre-processing the waveform data to identify individual object signatures and their corresponding dividing points, the system prepares sorted data structures that enable faster subsequent distance calculations, balancing precision and processing speed
Data Source
AI summary
A detection unit is configured to perform a top detection process in which a maximum value of intensity of a detection signal is stored, and when the intensity of the detection signal is reduced from the stored maximum value to a value that is smaller by a predetermined top determination value, a point of the detection signal that indicates the stored maximum value is determined as a top of a crest of a waveform of the detection signal. Furthermore, the detection unit is configured to perform a bottom detection process in which after the top of the crest is detected, a minimum value of the intensity of the detection signal is stored, and when the intensity of the detection signal is increased from the stored minimum value to a value that is larger by a predetermined bottom determination value, a point of the detection signal that indicates the stored minimum value is determined as a bottom of a trough of the waveform of the detection signal.