Inertial Drift Correction Using LED-Photoreceptor Optical References
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inertial head-tracking systems face inadequate drift correction over time, particularly in precision pointing applications, with existing methods requiring expensive cameras or being computationally intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising light emitting diodes (LEDs) and photoreceptors positioned around the environment and on head-worn goggles or helmets, where a processor periodically receives measurements from photoreceptors to reset inertial drift, with LEDs or photoreceptors constrained to a specified range for accurate drift estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inertial head-tracking systems are used for compact and low cost operation, then device cost and size are reduced, but drift rates over time become inadequate for precision pointing applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces LEDs as light sources and photoreceptors as sensors as intermediary elements between the inertial tracking system and the environment. These intermediaries provide reference signals that enable drift correction without requiring complex camera systems or additional expensive hardware, thus improving measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or optical camera-based drift correction systems with an optical signaling system using LEDs and photoreceptors. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive cameras and complex image processing while achieving adequate drift correction for precision pointing applications
2Measurement precision
If existing drift correction methods such as inertial optical blend are applied, then drift misalignment is corrected, but expensive cameras and computationally intensive processing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive LEDs and photoreceptors as temporary reference elements that provide sufficient drift correction information without requiring expensive, long-lasting hardware. These simple optical components can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, significantly reducing system cost while maintaining drift correction functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the drift correction system by using simple optical intensity measurements from photoreceptors instead of complex image data from cameras. This parameter change from spatial image analysis to temporal intensity monitoring reduces computational requirements and hardware costs while maintaining adequate correction accuracy
3Measurement precision
If LEDs or photoreceptors are constrained to a specified range, then drift estimation accuracy is improved, but system configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by constraining LEDs or photoreceptors to specific angular or spatial ranges rather than requiring full 360-degree coverage. This localized approach concentrates measurement resources in the most critical directions for head-tracking applications, improving drift estimation accuracy in the relevant field of view without requiring complex omnidirectional system configuration
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
This approach provides accurate and cost-effective drift correction for inertial head-tracking systems, enhancing precision and reducing computational intensity, suitable for applications like aircraft cockpits without distracting pilots or interfering with night vision.
Implementation Method 1
A processor periodically receives measurements from the photoreceptors and resets inertial drift based on those measurements
Implementation Method 2
A processor periodically receives measurements from the photoreceptors and resets inertial drift based on those measurements
Data Source
AI summary
An inertial head-tracking system includes light emitting diodes (LEDs) and photoreceptors. The LEDs and photoreceptors are positioned around the environment and helmet respectively. A processor periodically receives measurements from the photoreceptors and resets inertial drift based on those measurements. Either the LEDs or the photoreceptors are constrained to a specified range to allow for more accurate drift estimation.