Multi-Plane Sensor System for 3D Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for monitoring three-dimensional spaces are limited by high computing requirements, mechanical vulnerabilities, and the inability to effectively cover large areas without shadowing or obstructing the monitored space, making them unsuitable for reliable and cost-effective surveillance.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level sensor system using image sensors arranged in parallel or fan-shaped configurations with adjustable spacing and illumination, allowing for accurate detection of objects within a three-dimensional space without shadowing, and enabling flexible configuration of monitoring and protection zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera and stereoscopic evaluation are used to monitor three-dimensional space, then monitoring capability is improved, but computing effort increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional monitoring space is segmented into multiple two-dimensional monitoring planes arranged at different distances from the sensor. Each plane is monitored independently by a single image sensor, converting a complex 3D monitoring task into simpler 2D tasks that require minimal computing effort while maintaining comprehensive spatial coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems (rotating lasers, moving mirrors) with a static multi-plane sensor system. Multiple image sensors capture multiple planes simultaneously without mechanical movement, eliminating the need for complex real-time computing to track moving scan lines while achieving comprehensive 3D space monitoring
2Area of stationary object
If multiple light grid columns are arranged to form a cage for monitoring, then monitoring coverage is improved, but work on the protected machine is impeded and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional light grid (single plane) to a three-dimensional monitoring system by arranging multiple monitoring planes at different distances from the sensor. This multi-plane configuration creates volumetric monitoring coverage without requiring multiple physical light grid columns, leaving the monitored space clear for machine operation while maintaining comprehensive surveillance
3Device complexity
If a single light grid or plane sensor is used, then device simplicity is improved, but monitoring is limited to a single area and cannot cover three-dimensional space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple simple two-dimensional plane sensors into a unified multi-plane sensor system. Each individual plane sensor remains simple in structure, but when combined in a multi-plane arrangement, they collectively achieve comprehensive three-dimensional space monitoring, maintaining device simplicity while expanding monitoring coverage
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
The system provides reliable, cost-effective monitoring of three-dimensional spaces with adjustable accuracy and object detection capabilities, minimizing interference and allowing for precise classification of objects within the surveillance area, while being simpler and more robust than existing solutions.
Implementation Method 1
A spatial area 12 is monitored by a multi-level sensor 10 in that a large number of monitoring levels 20 are arranged in the spatial area 12 and each monitoring level 20 is monitored by its own area sensor 14
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~6
AI summary
The sensor (10) has image sensors (16) for receiving a pixel image of a monitoring area using a set of light receiving units, and a controller for detecting an object from the image data of the pixel image. Each of the image sensors has a pixel row with the receiving units, where the image sensors are arranged at a distance from each other, such that each image sensor covers a plane (20) of the monitoring area. The controller outputs a warning signal or a switching signal to a machine in the monitoring area, when a protected zone is hurt or a hazard is detected. An independent claim is also included for a method for detecting an object in a three dimensional monitoring area.