Fixture Control via Inertial-Visual Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tracking systems face challenges in accurately tracking unpredictable and erratic movements of objects, especially at distances, due to resource-intensive image processing and inaccuracy issues, particularly when multiple objects or disturbances are present.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a combination of image tracking and inertial measurements, with infrared light sources and cameras, that determines object position and orientation using a Kalman filter, allowing for real-time tracking of multiple objects by associating object IDs with light sources through strobe patterns and inertial data, even when only one camera can detect the light source.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If visual imaging systems are used to track object movement, then tracking accuracy can be improved, but processing resource consumption increases and tracking response rate decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking accuracyVSAvoidtracking response rate

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the tracking task by using multiple sensors (optical sensors for position, inertial sensors for motion) to capture different aspects of object movement simultaneously, allowing parallel processing and reducing overall computational burden while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces pure visual imaging processing with a hybrid system that incorporates inertial measurement units (IMUs) to capture motion data directly, substituting the need for complex image processing with simpler sensor data fusion techniques

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Length of stationary object

If sensors are positioned further away from the object being tracked, then tracking range is improved, but tracking inaccuracy increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking rangeVSAvoidtracking accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from two-dimensional image-based tracking to three-dimensional spatial tracking by incorporating depth information from multiple cameras and inertial sensors, enabling accurate tracking at extended distances through volumetric coordinate transformation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces inertial sensors as intermediary devices that bridge the gap between distant optical sensors and the tracked object, providing continuous motion reference data that maintains tracking accuracy even when optical sensors are positioned far from the object

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple objects are tracked simultaneously, then system versatility is improved, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-object tracking capabilityVSAvoidprocessing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the tracking process by assigning unique identifiers to each object and processing them through separate tracking streams, allowing parallel handling of multiple objects while maintaining organized data flow and reducing overall processing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal tracking framework that handles multiple object types (people, animals, objects) using the same sensor fusion algorithms and processing pipeline, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing processing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The system achieves high response rates and accurate six-degrees-of-freedom tracking of multiple objects from various distances, reducing processing load and conserving power by using a single infrared LED per object and managing data flow effectively.

Implementation Method 1

A tracking unit placed on an object includes an inertial measurement unit and a visual indicator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInertial measurement: Inertia

Implementation Method 2

The tracking unit includes a single infrared LED that is activated

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInfrared radiation emission: Infrared Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS9055226B2System and method for controlling fixtures based on tracking data

Publication Date: 2015.06.09 CAST GROUP OF

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for using tracking data to control the functions of an automated fixture. Examples of automated fixtures include light fixtures and camera fixtures. A method includes obtaining a first position of a tracking unit. The tracking unit includes an inertial measurement unit and a visual indicator configured to be tracked by a camera. A first distance is computed between the automated fixture and the first position and it is used to set a function of the automated fixture to a first setting. A second position of the tracking unit is obtained. A second distance between the automated fixture and the second position is computed, and the second distance is used to set the function of the automated fixture to a second setting.