Laser-Based Object Tracking via Mesh Network Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional asset management requires significant time and resources for manual or partially automated tracking of objects, especially when they are moving or dispersed over large distances, limiting the potential for automation and efficiency improvements.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing laser emitters and sensors to accurately track object locations through triangulation, where stationary devices emit laser light with unique identifiers, detected by sensor devices that transmit location data via a wireless mesh network to a central base station, enabling real-time monitoring and automation of asset management functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual or partially-automated tracking methods are used, then implementation is simpler, but tracking accuracy and real-time performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking functionality into separate components: laser emitters positioned at known locations, sensor devices attached to objects, and a processing system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while achieving high overall tracking precision through their coordinated interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
Laser light serves as an intermediary carrier that transmits encoding information from emitters to sensor devices. This optical intermediary enables precise location determination without requiring direct electronic connections or complex communication infrastructure between tracking points and monitored objects.
2Productivity
If automated tracking systems are implemented, then productivity and efficiency improve, but time and resources for setup increase
Solution Approach 1:
Laser emitters are pre-positioned at known locations with predetermined coordinates stored in the system. This preliminary setup creates a ready-made reference framework that enables immediate tracking of objects as soon as sensor devices are attached, significantly reducing overall system deployment time.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor devices automatically detect laser light, decode the embedded location information, and determine object positions without requiring manual intervention. The system performs self-calibration and continuous tracking operations autonomously, maximizing productivity while minimizing ongoing time investment.
3Measurement precision
If laser emitters and sensors are used for precise tracking, then location accuracy improves, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser emitter system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides illumination, transmits encoded location information, and establishes reference points for triangulation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for each purpose, thereby controlling infrastructure costs while maintaining high tracking precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical tracking infrastructure with optical laser-based positioning. By using light propagation and photoelectric detection instead of mechanical sensors or radio frequency systems, the solution achieves high precision with simpler, more cost-effective components.
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 precise and efficient tracking of objects across large distances, allowing for automated operations such as fee calculation and real-time graphical user interface updates, enhancing asset management performance and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light emitting devices may be positioned in known locations. Each light emitting device may emit laser light that can be detected by sensor devices
Implementation Method 2
Photosensors of the sensor devices may detect the light emitted by one or more of the light emitting devices
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are generally directed to object tracking using laser emitters and sensors. Light emitting devices may emit laser light that is received by sensor devices including photosensors. The sensor devices may determine a location of the respective sensor device based on the received laser light. The sensors devices may form a wireless mesh network that allows each sensor device to transmit the determined location to a base station.