Moving Object Feature Tracking With Overlapping Optical Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to reliably detect and measure moving objects with interfering contours near a defined feature, leading to inaccurate positioning and measurement processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the formation of overlapping optical detection areas to track the feature's position, allowing for precise measurement by switching between measuring devices and masking out interfering contours, enabling real-time tracking and plausibility checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single optical detection area is used to track the feature on a moving object, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to interfering contours and limited detection coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The optical detection system is segmented into multiple detection areas (first optical detection area and second optical detection area) that track the feature at different positions along the movement path. Each detection area has its own measuring device, allowing independent optimization of detection parameters for different regions while maintaining overall measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution extends the detection system from a single spatial location to multiple locations along the movement direction. By adding the dimension of spatial distribution along the path, the system achieves continuous tracking coverage without requiring a single complex omnidirectional detector.
2Area of stationary object
If the optical detection area is enlarged to cover the entire movement path, then the detection coverage is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to including interfering contours
Solution Approach 1:
The total detection area is segmented into multiple smaller detection zones along the movement path. Each segment detects features only within its specific zone, excluding interfering contours from other zones. This segmentation maintains high precision while achieving comprehensive coverage through the combination of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical detection area performs partial detection of the overall feature path, focusing only on the local region within its detection zone. The complete measurement is achieved by combining results from multiple partial detections, rather than attempting to detect everything in a single excessive detection area.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measuring devices are used to cover different detection areas, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement task is segmented and assigned to multiple specialized measuring devices, each responsible for a specific detection area. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system precision, rather than requiring a single complex universal measuring device.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple measuring devices perform similar measurement functions but in different spatial zones. They can be standardized components with identical or similar functionality, reducing the complexity of individual devices while achieving comprehensive measurement coverage through their collective multi-functional operation.
4Productivity
If continuous tracking of the moving feature is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to movement-induced positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple optical detection areas are pre-positioned along the expected movement path of the feature. As the object moves, the feature sequentially passes through these pre-positioned detection zones, allowing continuous tracking without requiring real-time adjustment of detection positions. This preliminary positioning enables high-speed continuous measurement while maintaining precision in each local zone.
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 high-precision measurements in a smaller optical detection area, allowing for the use of small or weakly defined features and continuous monitoring of objects, even in complex configurations.
Implementation Method 1
Forming at least one first optical detection area, by means of which at least one first optical detection area is used to detect the current actual position of the feature fixed on the object
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for positioning measurement points (15, 18) with respect to a feature (8) locationally fixed on an object (5), the object (5) being moved along a movement path. A first and a second optical sensing region (10, 11) are formed, by means of which the current actual position of the feature (8) is determined. The two sensing regions (10, 11) are arranged overlapping each other, an overlapping section (13) thus being formed. The measurement points (15, 18) are each arranged at a predefined fixed distance (16, 19) from the feature (8). If the feature (8) is within the first sensing region (10), the measurement occurs at the first positioned measurement point (15). If the feature (8) is within the overlapping section (13), the first measurement point (15) is deactivated and the second measurement point (18) is activated and the measurement is performed.