Pseudo-Random Dot Surface Patterns for Precision Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The accuracy of precision inertial navigation systems and optical imaging systems is constrained by the number and complexity of patterns on spherically shaped gas supported bearings and assembly line objects, affecting the determination of angular positions and object positioning.

Innovation Solution

A method for generating a pseudo-random pattern of dots on surfaces, where surface input parameters are received, dot locations are selected based on these parameters, and coordinates for dot centers are output to create a pseudo-random pattern that overlays a systematic structure, improving the accuracy of angular position determination and object positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the number of shapes and complexity of shapes are increased on the surface pattern, then the accuracy of angular position determination is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of manufacture increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of angular position determinationVSAvoidcomplexity of surface pattern

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the surface pattern from traditional geometric shapes to a pseudo-random dot pattern. This changes the fundamental parameters of the pattern (from shaped markers to distributed dots with specific spatial frequency characteristics), enabling improved measurement precision while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The pseudo-random pattern provides richer information content for autocorrelation-based position determination without requiring complex shaped markers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a simplified dot pattern that can be easily replicated and manufactured, replacing complex shaped patterns. The pseudo-random dot pattern serves as a copy or simplified representation that maintains the essential information needed for position determination while being much easier to manufacture. The pattern can be generated through standard printing or coating processes without requiring precision machining of complex geometries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If the number of shapes and complexity of shapes are increased on the surface pattern, then the accuracy of object positioning is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of object positioningVSAvoidease of manufacturing surface pattern

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the manufacturing parameters by adopting a pseudo-random dot pattern that can be produced through standard manufacturing processes such as printing, coating, or laser marking. This parameter change from complex shaped patterns to distributed dot patterns maintains high positioning accuracy while significantly improving ease of manufacture. The dot pattern can be applied to surfaces using conventional techniques without requiring specialized equipment or complex assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the surface pattern into discrete, uniformly distributed dots rather than using continuous or complex shaped patterns. This segmentation into simple elemental units (dots) that can be independently and easily manufactured, while collectively providing the necessary information for precise position determination through autocorrelation analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional surface patterns are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the accuracy of reading by the optical sensor is constrained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of surface pattern manufacturingVSAvoidaccuracy of optical sensor reading

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent fundamentally changes the parameters of the surface pattern by using pseudo-random dot patterns with specific spatial frequency characteristics. This parameter change enables the optical sensor to achieve higher reading accuracy through autocorrelation processing, while the manufacturing remains simple as the pattern can be generated through standard printing or coating processes. The pseudo-random nature of the pattern provides superior contrast and distinctiveness for optical detection compared to traditional geometric patterns.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7593829B2Method for generating pseudo-random pattern designs for optical position determination systems

Publication Date: 2009.09.22 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

A method for generating a pseudo-random pattern of dots to be patterned on a surface including the steps of receiving surface input parameters for the surface, selecting dot locations for the pseudo-random pattern of dots for at least a portion of the surface based on the surface input parameters, and outputting coordinates for dot centers based on the dot locations.