Sensor Array Homography Mapping for Object Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing object detection and tracking systems face challenges in efficiently identifying and tracking multiple objects in real-time, especially in busy environments, due to computational intensity and the inability to determine physical locations of objects within images, and they lack effective handoff mechanisms for tracking objects as they move between camera fields of view.

Innovation Solution

A sensor array system that generates homographies to map pixel locations to physical spaces, enabling efficient object tracking by calibrating shelf positions, handing off tracking information between sensors, detecting interactions, and associating items with individuals using predefined zones and weight sensors, while also distinguishing between closely spaced objects and correcting homography errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If multiple cameras are used to track objects in large spaces, then coverage area is improved, but system complexity increases due to multiple sensors and coordinate mapping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the large space into multiple camera fields of view, with each camera responsible for a specific zone. Homography mappings are generated independently for each camera to transform local image coordinates to global space coordinates, allowing distributed tracking without centralized complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A homography transformation matrix serves as an intermediary between local camera coordinate systems and the global tracking space. This mathematical mapping enables seamless coordination between multiple cameras without requiring complex direct communication or synchronization mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If computational intensity is reduced for real-time tracking, then processing speed is improved, but tracking accuracy deteriorates due to simplified object identification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidtracking accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by generating homography mappings and defining zones of interest before tracking begins. Candidate object identities are pre-established based on visual characteristics, allowing real-time tracking to focus on verifying positions rather than identifying objects from scratch

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies partial action by focusing computational resources on specific zones of interest and candidate objects rather than processing entire images. This selective approach maintains accuracy for tracked objects while reducing overall computational load

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Reliability

If handoff mechanisms are implemented for object tracking between cameras, then tracking continuity is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional coordination systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking continuityVSAvoidcoordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback through bidirectional communication between cameras and the tracking server. When objects approach camera boundaries, the system exchanges information about candidate identities and positions, allowing seamless handoff without losing track of objects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The homography transformation and zone-based candidate identification serve multiple functions: they enable both local object detection within each camera view and global tracking across the entire space. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate handoff mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11674792B2Sensor array with adjustable camera positions
Publication Date: 2023.06.13 7-ELEVEN INC
  • US11674792B2 patent drawing
  • US11674792B2 patent drawing
  • US11674792B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensor mounting system that includes a sensor, a mounting ring, a faceplate support, and a faceplate. The mounting ring includes a first opening and a first plurality of threads that are disposed on an interior surface of the first opening. The faceplate support is disposed within the first opening of the mounting ring. The faceplate support includes a second plurality of threads that are configured to engage the first plurality of threads of the mounting ring and a second opening. The faceplate is disposed within the second opening of the faceplate support. The faceplate is coupled to the sensor and is configured to rotate within the second opening of the faceplate support.