RF In-Wall Imaging with Optical Marker Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF imaging devices fail to accurately locate objects behind surfaces, such as walls, and cannot distinguish between different materials like plastic, wood, and metal, which hinders efficient maintenance and remodeling processes.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency (RF) imaging device equipped with an optical position sensor, an RF sensor assembly, and a processor that captures optical and RF images, uses reference markers to determine positions, and assembles panoramic RF images by collating data from multiple positions, allowing for precise identification of objects and material differentiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RF imaging is performed without optical position sensors or reference markers, then the device structure remains simple, but the position accuracy and image registration precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical position sensors and reference markers as intermediary elements to bridge the RF imaging system with the physical space coordinate system. The reference markers serve as mediators that provide known positional references, while optical sensors mediate the detection of these markers to establish accurate spatial registration between multiple RF images without requiring complex direct coordinate transformation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with an optical detection system. Instead of using mechanical encoders, precision rails, or physical coordinate measurement devices, the system uses optical position sensors to detect reference markers, thereby achieving high-precision positioning through optical fields rather than mechanical structures.
2Loss of information
If multiple RF images from different positions are captured without position data, then more coverage area is obtained, but the ability to assemble panoramic images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where optical position sensors continuously detect reference markers and provide real-time positional feedback to the imaging system. This feedback loop ensures that each RF image is automatically tagged with accurate position information, enabling efficient assembly of panoramic images without manual intervention or loss of spatial context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning actions by placing reference markers in advance at known locations before image capture. This preliminary setup establishes a predetermined coordinate framework that simplifies subsequent image assembly, as the position information is already embedded in the system through the pre-positioned markers rather than requiring complex post-processing.
3Measurement precision
If reference markers are not used for position determination, then the surface remains unmodified, but the localization accuracy behind surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, easily removable reference markers that can be temporarily placed on surfaces for measurement purposes and then discarded or reused. These markers are designed to be low-cost items that do not permanently modify the surface, making them ideal for temporary localization tasks in maintenance and remodeling applications where surface integrity should be preserved.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state or properties of reference markers to achieve non-permanent attachment. By using markers that can be temporarily affixed through mild adhesion, magnetism, or mechanical attachment and then easily removed without damaging the surface, the system achieves high localization accuracy without permanent surface modification.
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 localization of objects and material identification behind surfaces, reducing labor and equipment costs in maintenance and remodeling by providing clear, composite images of the space and material composition.
Implementation Method 1
an optical position sensor configured to capture an optical image of a field of view of the optical position sensor and output data representing the optical image
Implementation Method 2
The RF sensor assembly is disposed at a first position and is configured to receive an RF signal for capturing an RF image of a portion of a space disposed behind a surface
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency (RF) imaging device comprises an optical position sensor, an RF sensor assembly, a processor, and a memory. The optical position sensor captures an optical image of a field of view and outputs data representing the optical image. The RF sensor assembly is disposed at a first position and receives an RF signal for capturing an RF image of a portion of a space disposed behind a surface at the first position and outputs data representing the RF signal. The processor receives the data representing the optical image and the RF signal, and determines that an optical signature of a reference marker is present in the optical image. If the optical signature is present in the optical image, the processor defines the first position of the RF assembly as a reference position. The memory stores the data representing the RF signal in association with the reference position.