Single Camera Motion Detection Using Mirrors for Virtual Touch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion detection systems require multiple cameras to capture fine motor movements and provide an unobstructed view, increasing complexity and cost, while also lacking security features for applications like bank teller machines and retail displays.
Innovation Solution
A single camera system with strategically positioned mirrors allows for video data and depth information gathering around obstructions, creating a virtual touch screen for interpreting fine motor movements and performing facial recognition, while maintaining security behind a glass barrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used to capture fine motor movements and provide unobstructed view, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A mirror is introduced as an intermediary component to redirect light paths, allowing a single camera to capture views from multiple angles including around obstructions. The mirror enables the camera to see both the user's face and hands simultaneously by reflecting light from different spatial locations into the camera lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a two-dimensional camera view to a three-dimensional spatial arrangement involving mirrors at specific angles. By positioning the mirror at 45-degree angles and the camera at elevated positions, the system captures depth information and reflected images that provide unobstructed views of fine motor movements without requiring multiple cameras.
2Reliability
If multiple cameras are deployed to provide unobstructed view, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single camera system is designed to perform multiple functions: facial recognition, fine motor movements detection, and gesture recognition. The mirror assembly enables one camera to fulfill the roles that would traditionally require multiple cameras, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining reliable view coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple viewing functions into a single camera system by using mirrors to composite different views. The camera captures both direct and reflected light paths, merging facial view and hand view into a single detection system, thereby reducing the number of components needed.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If components are positioned behind glass for security, then security is improved, but accessibility and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces physical contact (mechanical interaction) with optical field interaction. Users interact with the system through gestures and facial movements detected by the camera, eliminating the need for physical access to components behind the glass barrier while maintaining full operational capability.
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 simultaneous reaction to fine motor inputs and facial recognition, reducing system complexity and cost by using a single camera, while providing secure and accessible interaction through a virtual touch screen.
Implementation Method 1
A single mirror is geometrically positioned in such a way as to provide the camera a reflected view around the obstruction
Data Source
AI summary
A motion detection and interpretation system comprising a camera plus an infrared transmitter/receiver paired with a single reflective surface that records image data from two vantage points. The camera is connected to a computer and a display screen. The system creates a virtual touch screen for interaction with the display screen. The components of the system can be protected behind a transparent barrier while the virtual touch screen is provided for user interaction thus preventing user interference with, deterring vandalism and theft of, and prolonging the usable life of the equipment. In addition to finite hand movements detected by the virtual touch screen, the system can also simultaneously perform facial recognition and body movement recognition. The system is capable of interpreting multi-touch inputs. All recognitions are defined in the computer to carry out preprogrammed responses.