Optical Tracker Using 1D Sensors for Surface-Independent Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical tracking systems face limitations in accurately detecting surface-independent movements of pointing objects without physical contact, particularly in confined spaces or non-traditional usage scenarios, due to limited field of view and potential inaccuracies from surface irregularities.
Innovation Solution
The use of 1-dimensional image sensors with limited fields of view, strategically placed to detect light within a substantially planar region adjacent to the user device, combined with triangulation calculations and additional optical sensing in parallel regions to determine precise x, y coordinates and detect tilt, enabling accurate cursor control and secondary actions on a display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If 1-dimensional image sensors with limited field of view are used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but measurement precision and tracking accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system divides the detection space into multiple substantially planar regions, each monitored by dedicated 1-dimensional image sensors. This segmentation allows the system to use simple sensors for specific regions while achieving comprehensive 3D tracking coverage through coordinated data from multiple regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from 2D surface tracking to 3D volumetric tracking by adding a secondary substantially planar region in parallel with the first. This dimensional expansion enables depth perception and tilt detection while maintaining compatibility with 1-dimensional sensors through triangulation across multiple planes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical sensors are positioned to detect light within a substantially planar region, then surface-independent tracking is enabled, but field of view and detection range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges data from multiple 1-dimensional image sensors monitoring different substantially planar regions to create a comprehensive 3D tracking capability. By combining detections from parallel planes, the system achieves extended effective field of view and robust surface-independent tracking without requiring each sensor to have a wide field of view.
3Measurement precision
If triangulation calculations are performed using multiple image sensors, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies triangulation calculations locally within each substantially planar region using dedicated 1-dimensional image sensors, rather than attempting global 3D reconstruction from a single complex sensor array. This localized approach reduces computational complexity while maintaining precision through coordinated processing of regional data.
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
This approach enhances accuracy and reliability of surface-independent movement tracking, reduces errors from surface irregularities, and allows for intuitive control in various devices and environments, including those without traditional surfaces, while maintaining compact system design and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
optical components (e.g., image sensors) detect light within a substantially planar region adjacent to a user device
Implementation Method 2
both image sensors detect the part of the pointing object within the substantially planar region, and triangulation calculations may be performed to determine x, y coordinates associated with the movement of the pointing object
Data Source
AI summary
Optical tracking systems, method, and devices are described in which optical components detect light within a substantially planar region adjacent to a user device. Tracking logic may receive signals output by the optical components and determine coordinates associated with a movement of a pointing object through the substantially planar region. The tracking logic may then provide for translation of the coordinates into an action on a display, such as, for example, a movement of a cursor or other icon on the display.