Optical Detection System for Object Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser triangulation systems can only provide elevation information, making it difficult to characterize or differentiate objects based on elevation alone, particularly for similar objects like plants, animals, or cars, as they cannot determine disease conditions, nutritional status, or ripeness of fruits.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines laser triangulation with color light sources of different wavelengths to capture both elevation and color information, using a single sensor or dual sensors to detect distortion and reflected color light, allowing for detailed characterization and differentiation of objects based on color data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser triangulation is used to detect objects, then elevation information can be obtained, but the ability to characterize and differentiate similar objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser triangulation with color light illumination and detection into a single integrated system. The same optical sensor detects both the laser illumination distortion for elevation data and the color light reflection for color information, merging two detection functions into one system to simultaneously obtain both elevation and color characteristics of objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new detection dimension by introducing color light illumination at a second wavelength different from the laser wavelength. This enables the system to detect not only elevation information from laser distortion but also color information from color light reflection, expanding the characterization capabilities to multiple dimensions.
2Device complexity
If only elevation information is collected, then the detection system remains simple, but similar objects cannot be differentiated
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensor is designed to serve multiple functions: detecting both the distorted laser illumination for elevation measurement and the reflected color light for color information acquisition. This multi-functionality allows the system to obtain comprehensive object characteristics without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each measurement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic illumination by alternately activating the laser source and the color light source. This periodic action allows the single optical sensor to sequentially detect both laser-induced distortion patterns and color light reflections, separating the detection processes in time while maintaining system simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are used to capture both elevation and color information, then object characterization improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection of elevation and color information into a single optical sensor by utilizing temporal separation and wavelength differentiation. The sensor detects laser illumination distortion at one wavelength and color light reflection at another wavelength through the same optical path and sensor element, eliminating the need for multiple sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
By employing periodic illumination with the laser source and color light source alternating activation, the single optical sensor can sequentially capture both elevation and color information without simultaneous multi-sensor requirements, reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive characterization capability.
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 precise characterization and differentiation of objects by providing both elevation and color information, effectively determining the disease condition, nutritional status, and ripeness of plants, as well as distinguishing between similar objects.
Implementation Method 1
an object is illuminated using a laser
Implementation Method 2
optical detection of objects by means of laser triangulation
Implementation Method 3
A second sensor detects the color light generated by the color light source, which is reflected by the object
Data Source
AI summary
A system for the optical detection of objects includes a first source for generating light, microwaves, or ultrasound of a first wavelength. An object is illuminated by the light, the microwaves, or the ultrasound, wherein the illumination is distorted by the object. The system further includes at least one color light source for the generation of color light of a second wavelength, wherein the same object is illuminated by the color light of the color light source. The first wavelength is different from the second wavelength. Further, a sensor is provided for the detection of the object illuminated by the first source, and a second sensor is provided for the detection of the color light generated by the color light source, which is reflected by the object.