Single-Part Reflective Marker Detection Using Series Signal Receivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reflective marker systems for movement detection, such as those used in weightlifting systems, are costly, complex, and limited by the size and spacing requirements of two-part markers, which restrict their application to thinner objects and require closer sensor-marker distances, leading to mixed light readings at larger distances.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a signal emitter and two signal receivers positioned in series along the axis of movement, where the receivers' coverage allows for simultaneous recognition of a reflective marker of a calculated minimum size, determined by distances and angles, enabling efficient detection with a single-part marker, reducing costs and deployment complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two-part reflective markers are used, then detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential detection function from the complex two-part marker structure and implements it using a single reflective marker combined with a specific arrangement of emitters and receivers. The system achieves reliable detection by positioning two receivers in series along the movement axis, where each receiver detects the marker at different positions, eliminating the need for multiple reflective zones on the marker itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the specific geometric arrangement of emitters and receivers - to mediate between the simple single-part marker and the reliable detection goal. The calculated minimum marker size and receiver positioning act as intermediaries that enable a single marker to provide the detection reliability previously requiring two-part structures.
2Measurement precision
If two-part reflective markers are used, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical complexity of two-part markers with an optical-system-based solution. Instead of relying on the physical structure of the marker (mechanical solution), the system uses the optical paths and signal processing from multiple receivers to achieve precision detection, substituting mechanical complexity with optical and computational approaches.
3Reliability
If large reflective markers are used, then detection reliability is improved, but adaptability to different devices decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by calculating the minimum marker size based on the specific geometric parameters of the emitter-receiver arrangement (distances Der0 and Der1, angles ar0 and ar1). This allows the system to adapt the marker size parameter to different device configurations, maintaining detection reliability while enabling deployment on various devices with different space constraints.
4Measurement precision
If two-part reflective markers are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts simpler, cheaper single-part reflective markers that can be easily manufactured and deployed, replacing expensive two-part markers. The system compensates for the simpler marker design through the receiver arrangement and signal processing, achieving accurate detection while reducing deployment costs.
5Reliability
If small distance between sensor and marker is used, then detection reliability is improved, but adaptability to deployment scenarios decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from relying solely on distance for detection reliability to utilizing the spatial dimension of receiver arrangement. By positioning two receivers in series along the movement axis and calculating their specific positions, the system achieves reliability through spatial configuration rather than just minimizing distance, enabling adaptability to various deployment scenarios including larger distances.
6Adaptability or versatility
If large distance between sensor and marker is used, then adaptability to deployment scenarios is improved, but detection precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the dual-receiver configuration, where each receiver provides detection information that complements the other. The system processes signals from both receivers to determine marker position and movement, using this feedback mechanism to maintain detection precision even when the distance between sensor and marker increases, thus supporting greater adaptability.
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
This solution allows for reliable quantitative detection of movement with reduced costs and increased flexibility in marker size and spacing, supporting thinner objects and wider deployment scenarios while maintaining detection accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the reflective marker (M) is configured to reflect the signal emitted by the emitter towards the receivers
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a quantitative detection of a movement. The system includes a signal emitter and two signal receivers, positioned in series, along a first axis parallel to a second axis of movement of a reflective marker provided on a moving object. The reflective marker is configured to reflect a signal emitted by the signal emitter towards the two signal receivers. The two receivers have a signal reception coverage such that allows existence of a reflective marker position, on the second axis, in which the reflective marker of a given size is recognized simultaneously by the two signal receivers.