Sensor Calibration via Image-Based Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor technologies in portable devices, especially in accessories like headsets, face challenges with calibration and initialization due to magnetic disturbances and noise, making it difficult to accurately determine user movement and direction, particularly when traditional calibration methods are impractical.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a position detection device and an image capturing device to determine the geographical position and detect identifiable objects, allowing for the calibration of sensors by comparing the object's position to the user's, thereby recalibrating sensor functionalities such as compass and inertial navigation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional calibration methods are used for compass and sensors in accessories, then calibration can be performed, but the process becomes complex and impractical when the device is attached to the user's body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration operations with an automated image-based system. Instead of requiring users to physically move devices through specific patterns, the system captures images of identifiable objects (like landmarks or QR codes) and automatically calculates calibration data, substituting mechanical user actions with optical detection and computational processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary calibration system that uses identifiable objects in the environment as mediators between the sensor and the calibration process. These objects serve as reference points that bridge the gap between the accessory's sensor data and real-world orientation, enabling indirect calibration without direct user manipulation of the accessory
2Measurement precision
If separate recalibration is performed for each sensor, then each sensor can be calibrated individually, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate sensor calibration operations into a single unified process. By capturing one image and processing it through the same algorithm, the system simultaneously calibrates compass, accelerometer, and other sensors, combining what would otherwise be multiple time-consuming operations into one efficient step
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal calibration method that can calibrate multiple different sensor types using the same underlying technology. The image processing algorithm serves multiple functions: it provides reference data for compass calibration, acceleration reference for accelerometers, and orientation verification for gyroscopes, making the system multi-functional and efficient
3Productivity
If image capturing and object detection methods are used for calibration, then multiple sensors can be recalibrated simultaneously, but additional devices (camera, processing unit) are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile terminal serve multiple functions: it acts as both the calibration target (whose sensors are being calibrated) and the calibration tool (providing the camera and processing unit). This multi-functionality allows the system to perform complex multi-sensor calibration without requiring separate dedicated calibration devices, as the terminal itself provides all necessary components
Data Source
AI summary
Method, means, portable terminal accessory and system for calibrating a sensor device comprising a positioning unit detecting the position of the electronic device, an image capturing unit capturing an image of the environment around the electronic device, a processing unit detecting the presence of at least one identifiable object in the image captured and from a comparison of the position of the object in relation to the position of the user determining the heading of a user of the electronic device. Once the heading of the user is determined, it is used to calibrate one or more sensor devices or sensor functionalities in the electronic device.