Gated Imaging Object Detection Using Temporal Sensor Coordination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting objects using lighting devices and optical sensors lack feedback between the object and the sensor, limiting their effectiveness in tracking and recognizing objects, especially at longer distances and for objects with poor reflective properties.
Innovation Solution
A method that coordinates the control of lighting devices and optical sensors to define a visible distance range, allowing for early object detection by comparing image-side boundaries with a standard representation, and using gated imaging to enhance detection capabilities, including the use of neural networks for classification and tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the visible distance range is extended by temporal coordination of lighting device and optical sensor, then the detection range is improved, but the detection reliability for objects with poor reflective properties deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by comparing the image-side boundary with a predetermined standard representation before final object detection. This preliminary comparison identifies potential objects at the boundary of the visible distance range, allowing the system to prepare for subsequent tracking and measurement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces feedback by continuously monitoring the detected objects and adjusting the temporal coordination between the lighting device and optical sensor. The feedback loop ensures that objects with poor reflective properties can be reliably detected by optimizing the illumination timing based on previous detection results.
2Reliability
If the optical sensor and lighting device are arranged spatially spaced apart, then the detection capability for low-contrast objects is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection function by separating the optical sensor and lighting device into distinct spatial locations. This segmentation allows the lighting device to illuminate specific regions while the optical sensor captures the resulting images, improving the detection capability for low-contrast objects through controlled illumination geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a spatial dimension to the detection process by positioning the lighting device and optical sensor at different locations. This dimensional arrangement creates shadows and enhances contrast for objects with poor reflective properties, transforming a two-dimensional detection problem into a three-dimensional solution.
3Loss of time
If early object recognition is achieved by comparing image-side boundary with standard representation, then the response time is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary comparison of the image-side boundary with the standard representation to achieve early object recognition. This preliminary action quickly identifies objects at the boundary of the visible distance range, enabling timely response for safety-critical applications while maintaining the option for subsequent precise measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by initially focusing on boundary detection rather than complete object characterization. This partial approach provides sufficient information for immediate safety responses, while full measurement precision is applied only when necessary for tracking and classification operations.
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 early object recognition and precise measurement, allowing for optimized traffic safety strategies and improved detection of objects with low contrast or poor reflective properties, extending detection range beyond 80 meters.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting device (5) is configured to emit light pulses
Implementation Method 2
an optical sensor (7), in particular a camera
Implementation Method 3
a shadow is generated by an object by means of the spacing apart of the optical sensor and the lighting device, which is visible in the recorded image of the optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting an object by a lighting device and an optical sensor. A controlling of the lighting device and of the optical sensor are temporally coordinated where the controlling is associated with a visible distance range. Comparing at least one image-side boundary of the visible distance range with a predetermined standard representation of the at least one boundary of the visible distance range. Searching for the object on the at least one boundary based on the comparing.