Media Application Device Position Detection via LED Camera Intermediary

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing media application devices lack effective position and orientation detection systems, leading to potential misalignment and incorrect media application, especially when the device moves out of the detection area, and existing glare-free solutions are either costly or complex.

Innovation Solution

A media application device equipped with a detection unit that uses a reference element, such as a luminous LED, to detect its position and orientation relative to a surface, featuring a camera with high image recording frequency and resolution, and an anti-glare element to prevent user blinding, along with a communication unit for real-time data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a reference element (e.g., luminous LED) is used for position and orientation detection, then detection precision is improved, but the risk of user blinding increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition and orientation detection precisionVSAvoiduser blinding from glare
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A camera acts as an intermediary between the luminous reference element and the user's eyes. The camera detects the position and orientation based on the luminous element, and this detection data is processed to control the media application device, eliminating the need for the user to directly view the potentially blinding luminous element while maintaining detection precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct optical viewing (mechanical/physical observation) with an electronic detection system. Instead of the user's eyes directly observing the luminous reference element, a camera captures images of the luminous element, and image processing algorithms determine position and orientation, substituting the biological optical system with an electronic imaging system that can handle high-intensity light sources safely

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If a camera with high image recording frequency and resolution is used, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition and orientation detection precisionVSAvoidcamera system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a camera with higher image recording frequency and resolution than strictly necessary for basic detection. This excessive capability provides robust detection precision across varying conditions (different distances, angles, lighting environments) while the actual processing can operate at lower effective rates, balancing precision requirements with device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The camera serves multiple functions: it captures images of the luminous reference element for position detection, can detect environmental features for orientation reference, and provides visual feedback for system calibration. This multi-functionality justifies the camera's capabilities and reduces the need for separate specialized components, managing device complexity through functional consolidation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Speed

If real-time data transmission is implemented, then control responsiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol responsivenessVSAvoidenergy consumption for data transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous real-time data transmission, the system uses periodic transmission at key moments: when the media application device is activated, when position/orientation changes are detected, and during calibration phases. This periodic action maintains control responsiveness for critical operations while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous transmission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback-based transmission where data is sent only when changes occur or when calibration is needed. The detection unit monitors position and orientation continuously, but transmission occurs selectively based on detected changes or system state, providing responsive control when needed while conserving energy during stable periods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Ensures precise and accurate media application by preventing misalignment and glare, while being cost-effective and user-friendly, with efficient data transmission for real-time control and synchronization.

Implementation Method 1

A media application device equipped with a detection unit that uses a reference element, such as a luminous LED

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

featuring a camera with high image recording frequency and resolution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImage recording: Photography

Data Source

PatentEP3720614B1Media application device
Publication Date: 2024.06.05 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP3720614B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3720614B1 patent drawingFigure 2a
  • EP3720614B1 patent drawingFigure 2b

AI summary

The invention relates to a media application device, in particular to a colorant application device, comprising at least one media dispensing unit (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d; 12e) for dispensing at least one medium onto at least one surface (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d), and at least one electronics unit (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d; 16e), at least for closed- and/or open-loop controlling the at least one media dispensing unit (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d; 12e). According to the invention, the media application device comprises at least one position- and/or surface sensor unit (18a; 18c; 18d; 18e) for sensing at least one position and/or orientation of the media application device (12a; 12c; 12d; 12e) relative to the surface (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d), the electronics unit (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) closed- and/or open-loop controlling the media application device (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d; 12e) in accordance with the position or orientation.