Selective 3D Scanning via Mapping Designation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D scanning systems face challenges in generating high-resolution maps of partial fields of view without modifying the scanning profile in real-time, which is costly, complex, and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize an active 3D scanner with a scanning mechanism, energy emitting sources, and processing circuitry to selectively activate energy pulses based on mapping designation information, allowing for the generation of 3D maps of specific parts of the field of view by synchronizing energy emissions with the scanning mechanism and obtaining current readings from detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the scanning profile of the active 3D scanner is modified in real-time to generate a 3D map of part of the FOV, then the operational benefits of high resolution 3D map are maintained, but the system becomes costly, complex and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field of view into multiple zones (first FOV portion and second FOV portion) and applies different scanning strategies to each zone. The first portion receives reduced scanning coverage while the second portion maintains full scanning, allowing selective 3D mapping without modifying the entire scanning profile in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality levels of scanning to different regions of the FOV. The first FOV portion is scanned with reduced energy pulses and lower resolution, while the second FOV portion maintains high-resolution scanning. This local differentiation allows the system to generate adequate 3D maps for specific areas without the complexity of real-time full FOV profile modification.
2Measurement precision
If energy pulses are emitted to cover the entire FOV, then complete 3D mapping is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent emits energy pulses selectively rather than continuously across the entire FOV. For the first FOV portion, reduced numbers of energy pulses are emitted compared to the second FOV portion. This partial action approach maintains adequate 3D mapping capability while significantly reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the FOV into regions with different energy pulse requirements. The first FOV portion receives fewer energy pulses while the second FOV portion receives full energy pulse coverage. This segmentation allows the system to optimize energy consumption by allocating scanning resources only where high-resolution mapping is necessary.
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 efficient generation of 3D maps of partial fields of view while conserving energy resources and maintaining operational benefits, reducing exposure to sensors, and adapting to changes in platform orientation and position, thereby improving scanning accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
obtain current readings, from the at least one detector, based on reflections of the subset of the energy pulses
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for generating a three-dimensional (3D) map of part of a field-of-view (FOV) of at least one detector of an active 3D scanner, the system comprising: the active 3D scanner, comprising: a scanning mechanism configured to scan the FOV; at least one energy emitting source configured to emit energy pulses, in synchronization with the scanning mechanism, to cover the FOV; and the at least one detector; and processing circuitry configured to: obtain mapping designation information independent of past readings obtained by the at least one detector, if any; selectively activate the energy emitting source to emit only a subset of the energy pulses, in accordance with the mapping designation information, to cover the part of the FOV; obtain current readings, from the at least one detector, based on reflections of the subset of the energy pulses; and generate the 3D map based on the current readings.