Mobile Platform Obstacle Positioning From Multi-Position Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection systems for mobile platforms lack directional information, making it difficult to determine the position of objects relative to the platform, which is crucial for avoiding collisions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that measure distances between a mobile platform and objects at multiple positions, using sensors like time-of-flight or ultrasound sensors, to determine the object's position by solving a system of linear equations based on the measured distances, and employing processors to calculate the object's coordinates in real-time or periodically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If single-element ultrasound sensors are used, then cost is reduced, but directional information cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the obstacle detection task into multiple distance measurements taken at different positions of the mobile platform. Instead of using a single expensive directional sensor, the system uses a simple distance sensor multiple times at different locations to reconstruct directional information through computational geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces computational processing as an intermediary between the simple distance sensor and the final directional output. By measuring distances at multiple positions and solving geometric equations, the system converts scalar distance measurements into vector directional information without requiring complex directional sensing hardware.
2Loss of information
If arrayed ultrasound technology is used, then directional information can be retrieved, but cost becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple simultaneous sensors (arrayed ultrasound), the system copies the simple distance sensor's measurement function across multiple positions in time. The same type of inexpensive sensor is used repeatedly at different locations, achieving directional information through temporal and spatial replication rather than spatial array configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms a static sensing problem into a dynamic one by moving the mobile platform to multiple positions. The directional information is obtained through the dynamic sequence of measurements taken during platform movement, converting a spatial sensing challenge into a temporal measurement sequence.
3Measurement precision
If distance measurements are taken at multiple positions, then object position can be determined, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses more distance measurements than the minimum required (excessive action) to improve accuracy and robustness of position determination. By taking measurements at more than the minimum three positions, the system gains redundancy that improves measurement precision and allows for error correction, despite the increased time required.
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 the mobile platform to obtain directional information about objects, allowing for effective obstacle detection and avoidance, improving safety and operational efficiency by determining the precise position of objects in its environment.
Implementation Method 1
A method and system that measure distances between a mobile platform and objects at multiple positions, using sensors like time-of-flight or ultrasound sensors
Implementation Method 2
using sensors like time-of-flight or ultrasound sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a mobile platform includes measuring a distance between the mobile platform and an object at each of a plurality of positions of the mobile platform, and determining a position of the object based on results of measuring the distance.