Onboard Imager Pointing Direction Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems face challenges in accurately determining the pointing direction in indoor environments, especially when multiple devices with similar designs are present, due to limitations in GPS precision and the complexity of installing indoor positioning systems with beacons.
Innovation Solution
The use of an onboard imager on the pointing device to determine the pointing target by capturing images and recognizing a signature of a zone of interest, which includes additional information to differentiate between similar devices, and providing feedback to ensure sufficient reference images are collected for robust signature creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS is used to determine pointing direction, then the system can provide location-based control, but the precision is insufficient for indoor environments and distinguishing between nearby devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces GPS (a satellite-based electromagnetic positioning system) with an imager-based visual recognition system. The imager captures images of the target device and uses image processing to determine pointing direction, providing superior precision in indoor environments without relying on satellite signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an imager as an intermediary component between the control device and the target device. The imager captures visual information about the target device's appearance and characteristics, which is then processed to determine the pointing direction with high precision, serving as a mediator that bridges the control device and environment.
2Measurement precision
If indoor positioning systems with beacons are deployed, then accurate indoor positioning can be achieved, but the installation becomes costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the positioning functionality from the target device and places it in the control device through the imager. Instead of requiring the environment to be instrumented with beacons, the control device itself performs the positioning and identification functions, simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device performs its own positioning and target identification using the onboard imager, without requiring external infrastructure. The system is self-sufficient, using the control device's own imaging capabilities to determine pointing direction and identify targets, eliminating the need for complex beacon installations.
3Ease of operation
If traditional remote controls are used, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot accurately identify pointing direction when multiple similar devices are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the traditional remote control interface with an imager-based visual recognition system. The control device maintains its simple pointing operation while incorporating an imager that automatically captures and processes images of the target device, combining the ease of traditional remote control with the precision of computer vision technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and processing before the control command is executed. The imager captures an image of the target device, processes the image to determine device characteristics and pointing direction, and only then routes the control command to the correct device, ensuring accurate identification before action.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods associated with determining a pointing target of pointing device are disclosed. One embodiment disclosed herein is a method conducted with a control device having a pointing direction and an onboard imager. The field of view of the onboard imager includes the pointing direction. The method includes capturing a reference image, determining a characteristic quantity based on the reference image, generating a feedback message based on the characteristic quantity, and predicating a setup phase termination for the control device on the characteristic quantity.