Smart Device Distance Detection Using Image-Based Target Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart portable devices face challenges in detecting distance and identifying positions of targets and current positions, especially when GPS receivers malfunction or are unavailable, leading to impaired navigation functions.
Innovation Solution
The method and device utilize image acquisition, measurement, and estimation units to determine distances and positions by calculating the length of target objects in images, combining this with GPS, e-compass, and geographic information systems for navigation and current position determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS receiver is used for navigation, then current position can be identified, but navigation function fails when GPS is unavailable or malfunctioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system using camera images and image processing as a mediator between the user and navigation. When GPS is unavailable, the system processes images of target objects to determine distances and positions, serving as an alternative navigation mechanism that bridges the gap when GPS fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the navigation system universal by enabling it to function through multiple methods: traditional GPS-based positioning and an alternative image-based positioning system. This multi-functionality allows the navigation system to adapt to different conditions, including when GPS is unavailable, by switching to or complementing with image processing methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If image-based distance detection is implemented, then navigation capability is enhanced without GPS, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module, which is already present in most smart portable devices for photography purposes, is made multi-functional by enabling it to serve as a positioning and distance measurement tool. This eliminates the need to add entirely new hardware components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while still achieving GPS-independent navigation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages the camera's existing capability to capture images and uses computational algorithms to extract navigation information from these images. By making the camera self-service for navigation purposes through software processing rather than requiring dedicated hardware, the patent minimizes the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If image processing algorithms are used for position determination, then current position can be identified without GPS, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by processing only the necessary portions of images (such as extracting specific features or regions of interest) rather than analyzing the entire image data comprehensively. This selective processing approach maintains sufficient accuracy for navigation while significantly reducing processing time and computational resource consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting distance in a smart portable device includes acquiring an image of a target object, calculating a length of a side of the target object in the image, acquiring a predicted length of the side of the target object, and determining a distance between the smart portable device and the target object according to the length of the side of the target object in the image and the predicted length.