Obstacle Detection Device Using Intersecting Virtual Planes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection systems for mobile vehicles, such as robots, are costly and require significant computing power, making them unsuitable for implementation in robots due to high implementation costs and resource intensity.
Innovation Solution
An obstacle detection device equipped with multiple electromagnetic beam emitters and image sensors that form virtual planes intersecting with obstacles, allowing for two-dimensional image capture and analysis to determine obstacle presence, utilizing a combination of oblique, horizontal, and shovel beams to provide comprehensive coverage and deformation detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional obstacle detection systems are used, then detection capability is achieved, but implementation cost and computing power requirements become excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The detection space is segmented into multiple virtual planes (first virtual plane, second virtual plane, third virtual plane) that intersect with the reference plane. Each plane is detected independently by dedicated image sensors, dividing the complex 3D detection problem into simpler 2D plane detection tasks. This segmentation reduces computational complexity while maintaining reliable obstacle detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Virtual planes are introduced as intermediary geometric constructs between the physical emitters/sensors and the obstacle detection task. These virtual planes serve as mathematical surfaces that simplify the detection process by transforming 3D obstacle detection into 2D intersection analysis, reducing computing power requirements while preserving detection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beam emitters and image sensors are used to provide comprehensive coverage, then detection coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic beam emitters serve multiple functions: they define the virtual planes, provide illumination for image capture, and establish the geometric reference frames for detection. Each emitter-system combination performs detection in multiple directions through the intersecting virtual plane configuration, achieving comprehensive coverage without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multiple virtual planes intersecting at different angles and orientations to detect obstacles. By introducing the dimension of angular separation between planes (first, second, and third virtual planes with different orientations relative to the reference plane), the system achieves panoramic coverage while using a manageable number of emitters and sensors.
3Measurement precision
If virtual planes are positioned to intersect the reference plane for detection, then obstacle detection precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic beam emitters operate in periodic cycles, emitting beams to define virtual planes at specific intervals rather than continuously. Image sensors capture images at synchronized periodic intervals corresponding to beam emissions. This periodic operation maintains precise obstacle detection capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-defines the geometric configuration of virtual planes and their intersection points with the reference plane before detection begins. Emitters are positioned and oriented in advance to create the required virtual plane geometry. This preliminary setup enables precise detection with minimal real-time computation and energy expenditure during actual operation.
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 solution enables efficient and cost-effective obstacle detection, reducing energy consumption and implementation costs while providing panoramic coverage and precise obstacle location, allowing for effective navigation and collision avoidance in mobile vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
at least two electromagnetic beam emitters capable of forming two virtual planes in two different directions that can intersect with each other and with a possible obstacle
Implementation Method 2
at least one image sensor capable of producing a two-dimensional image of the intersection of the virtual planes and the possible obstacle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b~2c
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for detecting obstacles intended for being provided on a mobile vehicle (11) parallel to a reference plane (12). According to the invention, the device (10) comprises: at least two emitters (14, 16, 19, 32, 34, 35) of an electromagnetic beam (15, 17, 20, 27, 30, 31) capable of forming two virtual planes (22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29) in two separate directions that can intersect one another and a possible obstacle; at least one image sensor (5, 6, 7) capable of producing an image of the intersection of the virtual planes (22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29) and of the possible obstacle; an image-analysis means capable of determining the presence of an obstacle, configured so as to compare the image with a reference image. The invention also relates to a detection method using such a device.