Real-Time 3D Object Position Sensing via Speculative Pixel Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional tracking systems face challenges with speed, accuracy, and noise susceptibility when tracking remote objects using electromagnetic waves, particularly in compact laser-based projection systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a sequential pixel beam scan method in compact laser-based projection systems, where pixels are speculatively activated based on anticipated reflection paths to determine the distance to a target, employing a combination of continuous and pulsed light beams, and adaptive sensing technologies like Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) to enhance tracking precision and speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If continuous light beams are used for tracking remote objects, then the tracking coverage is improved, but the speed and accuracy deteriorate due to noise susceptibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed light beams instead of continuous illumination, transmitting light in periodic pulses and measuring distance based on time-of-flight. This periodic action allows for precise timing measurements while maintaining comprehensive tracking coverage, resolving the contradiction between coverage and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system speculatively activates pixels based on anticipated reflection paths before actual reflections occur. By pre-positioning sensors along predicted trajectories and using predictive algorithms, the system prepares detection resources in advance, improving both speed and accuracy of tracking.
2Productivity
If traditional detection methods are used, then the system simplicity is maintained, but the tracking speed and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into discrete pixel elements that can be independently activated and controlled. Each pixel acts as an independent detection unit, allowing parallel processing of multiple reflection paths. This segmentation enables high-speed tracking while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and speculatively activates pixels based on anticipated object positions and reflection paths. By performing detection preparations in advance using predictive algorithms, the system achieves high tracking speed without requiring complex real-time processing of all possible paths.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement range is increased to cover larger distances, then the versatility is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The use of pulsed light transmission with precise timing measurement allows the system to accurately measure distances across varying ranges. The time-of-flight measurement method maintains precision regardless of distance by measuring the actual travel time of light pulses, enabling both large range coverage and high accuracy simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system speculatively activates pixels based on anticipated reflection paths for objects at various distances. By pre-positioning detection resources along predicted trajectories at different ranges, the system maintains measurement precision across the entire distance spectrum without sacrificing accuracy for extended range.
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 improves the speed and accuracy of tracking remote objects by reducing noise and increasing the range of potential distances measured, allowing for real-time, high-precision distance determination and trajectory estimation, even at high velocities.
Implementation Method 1
employing adaptive sensing technologies like Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) to enhance tracking precision
Implementation Method 2
Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs)
Implementation Method 3
The tracking systems may illuminate the remote object with electromagnetic waves, or light beams, emitted by the tracking systems. The tracking systems may detect a portion of light beams that are reflected, or scattered, by the remote object.
Implementation Method 4
employing adaptive sensing technologies like Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) to enhance tracking precision and speed
Implementation Method 5
pixels are speculatively activated based on anticipated reflection paths to determine the distance to a target
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed toward measuring a three dimensional range to a target. A transmitter emits light toward the target. An aperture may receive light reflections from the target. The aperture may direct the reflections toward a sensor that comprises rows of pixels that have columns. The sensor is offset a predetermined distance from the transmitter. Anticipated arrival times of the reflections on the sensor are based on the departure times and the predetermined offset distance. A portion of the pixels are sequentially activated based on the anticipated arrival times. The target's three dimensional range measurement is based on the reflections detected by the portion of the pixels.