Laser Tracker Gesture Control via Structured Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser tracker systems face limitations in allowing a single operator to efficiently control and communicate commands from a distance, particularly in environments where remote controls or cell phones are not feasible, due to safety concerns, interference issues, or the need for additional hardware and setup.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a gesture-based control system where a user's body position and movements are translated into commands for the laser tracker, using a gesture capture device that projects structured light and captures images to generate a skeletal model, allowing the execution of commands without physical or wireless connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote control or cell phone is used to control the laser tracker, then the operator can control the device from a distance, but safety concerns and interference issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a laser-based gesture recognition system as an intermediary between the operator and the laser tracker. The system uses a separate laser pointer to project gestures that are captured by a camera, translating physical hand movements into control commands without requiring direct contact with the device or use of wireless electronic controls that may cause interference or safety issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic remote control systems with an optical-mechanical gesture recognition system. Instead of using radio frequency or wireless electronic signals that may be subject to interference, the system uses visible laser pointers and camera-based optical detection to transmit control commands, eliminating electromagnetic interference concerns while maintaining remote operation capability.
2Ease of operation
If additional hardware is added to enable remote control, then control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the laser tracker system multi-functional by integrating gesture recognition capabilities into the existing device. The same laser tracker that performs measurement functions also serves as the control interface through gesture recognition, eliminating the need for separate remote controls or additional dedicated control hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the measurement device and control interface into a single integrated system. The laser tracker's existing components (laser source, camera, processor) are combined to perform both measurement and gesture-based control functions, reducing the need for additional separate hardware devices.
3Reliability
If traditional control methods are used, then command execution is reliable, but operator fatigue increases due to lack of ergonomic control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic, flexible gesture-based control that adapts to natural operator movements. Instead of requiring operators to interact with fixed, static control interfaces, the system recognizes a variety of hand gestures and body movements, allowing operators to control the device in ergonomically comfortable positions and reducing physical strain.
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 a single operator to control the laser tracker from a distance, improving efficiency and reducing the need for additional hardware, while maintaining accurate command execution and reducing operator fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
A method utilizing a gesture-based control system where a user's body position and movements are translated into commands for the laser tracker, using a gesture capture device that projects structured light and captures images to generate a skeletal model
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are provided for controlling a measurement device remotely through gestures performed by a user. The method includes providing a relationship between a command and a gestures. A gesture is performed by the user with the user's body that corresponds to the user gesture. The gesture performed by the user is detected. A command is determined based at least in part on the detected gesture. Then the command is executed with the laser tracker.