Input Apparatus Using Synchronized Light Detection for 3D Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input apparatuses that identify positions in three-dimensional space using cameras require advanced software and increase processing load, and are bulky due to the need for image analysis.
Innovation Solution
An input apparatus with a light source, first and second light-receiving units, and a control unit that determines the position of a subject using synchronized detection signals from these units, reducing processing load by focusing on specific timing data for accurate position identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera is used to capture and analyze images for position identification, then position detection capability is improved, but device size increases and processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the camera-based optical system with a light source and light-receiving unit system. Instead of capturing images and processing them through software, the system uses structured light projection and direct light reception to detect position, substituting a complex optical-mechanical system with a simpler photodetection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the necessary light reception function from the camera system. Instead of using a camera that captures full images, the invention uses dedicated light-receiving units that directly detect light intensity at specific positions, extracting only the position-detection capability needed while eliminating image capture and processing functions.
2Measurement precision
If a camera is used to capture and analyze images for position identification, then position detection capability is improved, but processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary light reception function from the camera system. Instead of using a camera that captures full images, the invention uses dedicated light-receiving units that directly detect light intensity at specific positions, extracting only the position-detection capability needed while eliminating image capture and processing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the camera-based optical system with a light source and light-receiving unit system. Instead of capturing images and processing them through software, the system uses structured light projection and direct light reception to detect position, substituting a complex optical-mechanical system with a simpler photodetection system.
3Measurement precision
If all received-light data from the first light-receiving unit is used for position determination, then position accuracy is improved, but processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the relevant portion of light reception data by using a second light-receiving unit that detects light at specific timings. Instead of processing all data from the first light-receiving unit, the system selectively extracts data captured when the second light-receiving unit detects reflected light, reducing processing load while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The second light-receiving unit performs preliminary detection to identify specific timings when reflected light is detected. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-select relevant data points from the first light-receiving unit before position calculation, reducing the amount of data that needs to be processed while ensuring accurate position identification.
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 accurate identification of a subject's position in three-dimensional space with a simple structure and reduced processing load, allowing for efficient operation and minimal data processing.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that emits light toward a predetermined region
Implementation Method 2
a first light-receiving unit that receives light reflected off a subject toward a first region
Implementation Method 3
a second light-receiving unit that receives light reflected off the subject toward a second region in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction from the predetermined region toward the first region
Data Source
AI summary
An input apparatus includes: a light source that emits detection light toward a first direction, and raster scans a detection interface defined in space, with the detection light; a first light sensor that is disposed closer to the light source than the detection interface, and detects first reflected light which is the detection light that has been reflected; a second light sensor that detects second reflected light which is the detection light that has been reflected off an instructing body that has entered a detection region extending from the detection interface toward the light source; and a control unit that detects a coordinate value of the instructing body using received-light data obtained by the first light sensor and the second light sensor receiving light at the same timing.