Radar Obstacle Detection for Visually Impaired
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection methods for visually impaired individuals, such as canes and auditory cues, are inadequate as they fail to detect obstacles at varying heights and are limited by directionality and environmental interference, leading to inaccuracies and increased costs with multi-sensor solutions.
Innovation Solution
A radar-based obstacle detection device with a processor, radar sensor, and output interface that calculates object distance and intersection with user-defined areas, providing auditory and tactile feedback, and incorporating energy harvesting and adjustable sensor parameters for efficient power use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional obstacle detection methods (canes, auditory cues) are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and detection accuracy deteriorate because they cannot detect obstacles at varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical obstacle detection methods (canes) and biological sensory systems (auditory cues) with a radar-based electromagnetic detection system. This substitution enables three-dimensional obstacle detection at varying heights while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through the use of standardized radar components and processor-based analysis.
2Measurement precision
If multi-sensor solutions are implemented to improve detection accuracy, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single radar sensor system that performs multiple functions: detecting obstacles at various heights, determining obstacle distance, calculating intersection with user-defined areas, and providing both auditory and tactile feedback. This multi-functional approach achieves comprehensive obstacle detection without requiring multiple specialized sensors, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If continuous radar operation is maintained to ensure continuous obstacle detection, then the reliability improves, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic radar operation where the sensor operates in alternating active and sleep modes. The system performs detection cycles at intervals sufficient to maintain safety and reliability while allowing the radar sensor and processor to enter low-power states between measurements. This periodic operation maintains detection reliability while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous operation.
4Use of energy by moving object
If sensor parameters are optimized for power efficiency, then the energy consumption decreases, but the measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts radar sensor parameters such as transmit power, chirp frequency, and sampling rate based on operational conditions and battery status. The controller monitors system state and modifies detection parameters in real-time to optimize the balance between power consumption and detection precision, allowing the system to adapt rather than operate at fixed parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of the radar sensor including chirp frequency, transmit power level, and detection range based on environmental conditions and power availability. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes detection performance for current conditions while minimizing energy consumption, particularly when battery levels are low or during periods of reduced detection demand.
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 accurate and cost-effective detection of obstacles at varying heights, reducing reliance on multiple sensors and minimizing environmental interference, while extending battery life through energy harvesting and optimized power management.
Implementation Method 1
a radar sensor; the processor being configured to receive, from the radar sensor, signal information; calculate, based on the signal information, the distance relative to the sensor of one or more objects
Implementation Method 2
In some embodiments, the radar includes an energy harvester. In further embodiments, the energy harvester includes a kinetic harvester.
Implementation Method 3
In other embodiments, the energy harvester includes a photovoltaic harvester.
Data Source
AI summary
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a radar device for detecting objects that intersect an area, the device including a mount attachment; a radar sensor; an output interface; a memory storing one or more environment parameters; a processor in communication with the radar sensor, the output interface, and the memory, the processor being configured to: receive, from the radar sensor, signal information; retrieve, from the memory, environment parameters; calculate, based on the signal information, the distance relative to the sensor of one or more objects; calculate an area based on at least one of the environment parameters; and determine that at least one of the one or more objects intersect the area.