Optical Object Detection via GPS-Synchronized Temporal Light Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical detection systems for objects, such as aircraft and vehicles, fail to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant light sources, leading to potential collisions due to psychological and physiological limitations of human vision, as well as environmental factors, resulting in missed hazards even when equipped with attention-attracting lights.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a controlled light source with a temporal pattern of emissions, synchronized with GPS time, to differentiate between light sources associated with objects of interest and other sources, employing a detector with a GPS receiver and image processor to capture images during illumination and non-illumination periods, allowing for accurate identification and notification of proximate objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If flashing lights are used to attract human attention, then the conspicuousness of the object is improved, but the ability to distinguish relevant from irrelevant light sources deteriorates due to multiple light sources in the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing a temporal pattern of light emissions where controlled light sources flash in synchronization according to a predetermined pattern. The detector captures images during both illumination periods (when lights are on) and non-illumination periods (when lights are off), enabling distinction between synchronized controlled sources and unsynchronized environmental light sources through the periodic timing pattern
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used to illuminate objects, then the visibility is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring relevant light sources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the detector to monitor light emissions and compare the temporal patterns of detected lights against the predetermined synchronization pattern. This feedback mechanism allows the system to identify which light sources are controlled and synchronized versus which are environmental or uncontrolled, thereby filtering relevant sources from irrelevant ones
3Use of energy by moving object
If steady-state illumination is used, then the energy consumption is reduced, but the ability to attract human attention deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action with controlled light sources that flash in synchronized temporal patterns rather than maintaining continuous steady-state illumination. This periodic flashing attracts human attention more effectively while consuming less energy than continuous illumination would require
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
Enhances the likelihood and timeliness of detecting objects of interest by distinguishing between relevant and irrelevant light sources, reducing false alarms and improving navigation and collision avoidance decisions.
Implementation Method 1
The detector includes a GPS receiver and an image processor
Implementation Method 2
The detector includes a GPS receiver and an image processor
Data Source
AI summary
A system for optically detecting an object comprises a light source associated with the object and operated to produce a temporal pattern of emissions and a detector, synchronized to the operation of the light source by signals from a global positioning system, to identify light emissions according to the temporal pattern.