Surveying Instrument Target Detection Using Modulated Optical Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surveying instruments face challenges in effectively detecting and identifying targets due to limitations in existing tracking methods, particularly in distinguishing targets from their surroundings using optical radiation modulation patterns.
Innovation Solution
A surveying instrument and method that utilize an image sensor with a movable field of view, capturing digital images with an exposure time longer than the identifiable section of a regulating pattern for optical radiation modulation, allowing for the detection and identification of targets by processing the captured images to distinguish the target's pattern from the background through motion blur and pattern recognition techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If digital imaging using CMOS sensor is used for target identification, then target presence can be detected, but the ability to distinguish targets from surroundings using modulation patterns is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the target detection process into two distinct functional components: a quadrant tracker for precise angular deviation measurement and tracking, and a CMOS sensor for target identification and classification. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its strength while working together to overcome the limitations of either system alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the quadrant tracker and CMOS sensor into an integrated surveying instrument system. The quadrant tracker provides precise tracking data while the CMOS sensor captures visual information and modulation patterns. By combining these systems with coordinated operation, the patent achieves both precise target acquisition and reliable identification, resolving the contradiction between detection precision and system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If exposure time is increased to capture modulation patterns, then pattern detection improves, but motion blur increases reducing image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic modulation of optical radiation (such as LED blinking or laser modulation) at specific frequencies. By synchronizing the exposure time with the modulation period, the system captures multiple cycles of the modulation pattern, enabling reliable detection while maintaining shorter effective exposure times that reduce motion blur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the quadrant tracker to provide real-time feedback on target position and angular deviation. This feedback allows dynamic adjustment of tracking parameters and exposure timing to optimize the capture of modulation patterns while compensating for any motion effects, thereby maintaining image quality while enabling pattern detection.
3Speed
If field of view moves rapidly to track target, then tracking speed improves, but pattern recognition in captured images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the quadrant tracker as an intermediary system that operates independently at high speed to monitor angular deviations and maintain target acquisition. This allows the CMOS sensor to operate at optimized exposure intervals without compromising tracking performance, as the quadrant tracker continuously bridges the gap between rapid target movement and image capture timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary tracking and positioning using the quadrant tracker before the CMOS sensor captures the image. By pre-acquiring angular deviation data and predicting target position, the system can synchronize the field of view movement and exposure timing to optimize both tracking speed and pattern recognition accuracy in the captured images.
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 approach enables sensitive detection and identification of targets, including those with rapid blinking patterns, and allows for recognition of multiple targets with distinct patterns, improving target tracking and recognition capabilities in surveying applications.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor... capturing digital images... using an exposure time which is longer than an identifiable section of a regulating pattern for modulation of an optical radiation either emitted or reflected by the at least one target
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a measuring instrument (100) and a method (3000) implemented in such a measuring instrument. The measuring instrument includes an image sensor (110), an actuator (120), a control unit (130) and a processor (140). The actuator is arranged to move a field of view (150) of the image sensor. The control unit is configured to cause the image sensor to capture at least one digital image during motion of the field of view of the image sensor by the actuator. The exposure time for capturing the digital image is longer than an identifiable section of a regulating pattern for modulation of an optical radiation either emitted or reflected by at least one target. The processor is configured to process at least a portion of the captured image for detecting in the at least one portion the identifiable section of the regulating pattern. Such a measuring instrument is advantageous for detecting and/or identifying a target in the vicinity of the instrument.