Remote Object Orientation Measurement Using Multiple Target Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for remotely measuring the angular orientation of objects, such as vehicles in a convoy, are prone to precision errors due to sensitivity in distance measurement calculations.
Innovation Solution
A method using a measuring device to acquire the relative position of multiple sights on an object, with a processing unit calculating the orientation from measured data and prior knowledge, employing specific formulas to determine distances and angular positions, and utilizing devices like radar, lidar, or cameras to differentiate and identify patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distance measurements are used to calculate angular orientation, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to error sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical calculation method (using multiple distance measurements and trigonometric calculations) with an optical measurement system (single angular measurement using radar or lidar). This substitution eliminates the error propagation inherent in mechanical calculation methods while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage through the use of multiple targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular position measurements as an intermediary parameter that directly relates to the desired angular orientation without requiring complex calculations from distance measurements. By measuring angular positions of multiple targets and calculating the mean angular orientation, the system achieves both comprehensive coverage and high precision.
2Reliability
If multiple targets are measured to improve orientation accuracy, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing distance measurement device multi-functional by enabling it to perform both distance measurement and angular position measurement. This allows the system to achieve improved reliability through multiple target measurements without adding separate measurement devices, thereby avoiding increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from purely distance-based to angular position-based measurements. By measuring the angular position of multiple targets relative to the measuring vehicle and calculating the mean angular orientation, the system improves reliability while keeping the measurement device unchanged.
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 the reliability and precision of angular orientation measurement, reducing errors and providing accurate relative positioning of objects within a convoy or other applications.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring device, such as radar or lidar
Implementation Method 2
a measuring device, such as radar or lidar
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for estimating an orientation of an object includes the following steps: by means of a measuring device, acquire (22, 24) the relative position of at least two targets placed on an object, the relative position comprising the distance and the angular position of said target with respect to the measuring device; by means of a processing unit, calculate (26) the orientation of the object from the measured relative position data and prior knowledge of the relative position of the targets on the object.