Infrared Pattern Distance Measurement Using Projected Reference Film
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional distance measurement methods, such as using rulers or telescopes, are inefficient and prone to errors, particularly in applications requiring high precision and speed.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing an infrared LED transmission unit, a camera module with an infrared LED reception unit, and a film with a reference pattern to project and analyze the size of a pattern onto a subject, allowing for precise distance calculation without the need for manual measurement or high-cost equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods such as rulers or telescopes are used, then measurement can be performed with simple equipment, but measurement efficiency and precision are significantly degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods (rulers, telescopes) with an automated optical measurement system using infrared LEDs, patterned films, and image processing. The system automatically captures images of projected patterns and calculates distances through coordinate analysis, eliminating manual intervention and significantly improving both precision and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a patterned film that projects a reference pattern onto the measurement target. By capturing an image of this projected pattern and analyzing its coordinates, the system creates a digital copy of the spatial relationship, allowing precise distance calculation without direct physical measurement.
2Measurement precision
If telescopes are used for distance measurement, then measurement capability is improved, but high cost is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive telescopic equipment with inexpensive components: infrared LEDs, patterned films, and standard image sensors. These low-cost components work together to achieve precise distance measurement without requiring expensive optical instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes expensive mechanical telescopic systems with an optical-digital hybrid system using infrared illumination and digital image processing, achieving comparable or superior precision at a fraction of the cost.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual reading of scale intervals is required, then measurement can be performed with simple equipment, but errors frequently occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual reading and interpretation of scale intervals with automated digital image processing. The system automatically detects pattern coordinates, performs calculations, and outputs distance measurements, eliminating human error entirely while maintaining equipment simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system captures an image of the projected pattern, analyzes the coordinates automatically, and uses this feedback to calculate the distance. This closed-loop process eliminates manual intervention and ensures consistent, error-free measurements.
4Volume of moving object
If infrared LED transmission unit and reception unit are integrated in a single camera module, then device size is reduced, but component integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the infrared LED transmission unit and the infrared reception unit into a single camera module. This merging of transmission and reception functions into one compact unit significantly reduces the overall device size while the modular design manages integration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module serves multiple functions: it acts as both the infrared light source (via integrated LED) and the infrared detector. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, shrinking device size while the standardized module interface keeps integration manageable.
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 efficient and precise distance measurement in a compact device, improving productivity by calculating distance based on the size of the projected pattern, reducing errors and costs associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared LED transmission unit to transmit an infrared LED light toward the film
Implementation Method 2
an infrared light reception unit to receive the infrared light reflected from the subject and incident to a lens
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for measuring a distance can include a camera module and a film having a reference pattern. The camera module can include an infrared LED transmission unit to transmit an infrared LED light toward the film and a module unit calculating a distance from an object by using a size of a pattern projected onto the object which is obtained from an image of a camera unit. The film can include an infrared film and a plurality of holes formed in the infrared film.