Laser Range Finding Attachment for Mobile Computing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser range finders (LRFs) have limited processing power and features, preventing them from executing complex interactive programs and utilizing advanced hardware such as GPS, cameras, and sensors, which restricts their applicability for various useful functions.
Innovation Solution
A laser range finding attachment (LRFA) for mobile computing devices that leverages the device's hardware and software to perform complex calculations, display data, and integrate with GPS, cameras, and other sensors, enabling extended functionality like range measurement, GPS data, and ballistic solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional LRFs are designed as self-contained devices with limited hardware, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but processing power and available features are limited, reducing adaptability and versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a laser range finder with a mobile computing device that serves multiple functions including GPS navigation, digital photography, video recording, and complex data processing. The mobile device acts as a universal platform that combines the range finding capability with numerous other functionalities, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the conventional LRF functionality with a mobile computing device, combining the laser emitter, receiver, and processing capabilities into a single integrated system. This merging allows the range finder to leverage the mobile device's powerful processor, display, camera, and communication capabilities while maintaining compact form factor.
2Ease of operation
If conventional LRFs use basic display and processing components, then device complexity is reduced, but the inability to execute complex interactive programs limits ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile computing device provides a universal interface with touchscreen display, virtual keyboard, and programmable applications that enable complex interactions for range finding operations. Users can access detailed measurements, graphical interfaces, and customized functions through the mobile device's operating system, greatly enhancing ease of operation compared to basic button interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical buttons and physical displays with software-based interfaces on the mobile computing device. The touchscreen interface, virtual controls, and software applications substitute for traditional mechanical interaction mechanisms, enabling more flexible and intuitive operation while reducing physical complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional LRFs lack advanced hardware components, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but functionality is limited for particular useful applications
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile computing device incorporates multiple advanced hardware components including GPS receiver for location tracking, digital camera for visual documentation, accelerometer for orientation detection, and wireless communication capabilities. These components work together to provide enhanced functionality for surveying, navigation, and data collection applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the laser range finding hardware with the mobile device's existing hardware components, creating an integrated system where the emitter, receiver, GPS, camera, and sensors work together as a unified platform for multiple measurement and data collection functions.
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
The LRFA enhances the usability of laser range finding by allowing users to perform complex calculations and utilize additional device features, providing a more versatile and user-friendly interface for range measurement and data display, thereby overcoming the limitations of conventional LRFs.
Implementation Method 1
Laser range finders (LRFs) use received reflections of a ranging laser energy directed toward an object to calculate distance/range measurements
Implementation Method 2
use received reflections of a ranging laser energy
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes methods and systems, including computer-implemented methods, computer-readable media, and computer systems, for measuring range to an object (e.g., range finding) by reflection of laser radiation. One computer-implemented method includes the following operations executed on a mobile computing device (MCD): targeting an object with the MCD display operating as a viewfinder, receiving a request to trigger a laser range finding operation, initiating triggering of an emitter on a laser range finding attachment (LRFA) coupled to the MCD, receiving range finding data from the LRFA, processing the range finding data, and initiating display of data associated with the object, the data corresponding to the processed range finding data.