Spatial Recognition Device Using Time of Flight Laser Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for visually impaired individuals lack precise spatial awareness and object detection capabilities, particularly at varying distances and in environments with low reflectance or opaque surfaces, due to reliance on inadequate sensor modalities like lasers, LEDs, and ultrasonic systems that are prone to interference and low precision.
Innovation Solution
A Spatial Recognition Device (SRD) utilizing a Time of Flight (TOF) laser sensor for precise distance measurement, combined with haptic or acoustic feedback, and optionally with accelerometers and GPS, to provide high-resolution spatial awareness and object detection over a wide range, allowing users to navigate and identify objects accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional laser or LED sensors are used for object detection, then the device can provide basic spatial awareness, but the measurement precision deteriorates in environments with low reflectance, high absorbance, or opaque surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple sensor types (laser TOF, ultrasonic, infrared, capacitive) that operate on different physical principles and parameter ranges. Each sensor type is optimized for specific conditions - laser TOF for general distance measurement, ultrasonic for low reflectance surfaces, infrared for thermal detection, and capacitive for close-range object detection. This multi-parameter approach ensures reliable detection across varied environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates multiple sensing modalities into a composite sensing system that combines the strengths of different sensor types. By fusing data from laser TOF sensors, ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, and capacitive sensors, the system achieves robust object detection that overcomes the limitations of individual sensor types in challenging environments.
2Device complexity
If a single sensor type is used to reduce device complexity, then the device structure is simplified, but the adaptability to different detection environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional sensing system where each sensor type serves multiple purposes. The laser TOF sensor provides primary distance measurement and can detect reflective surfaces, while also serving as a reference for calibrating other sensors. The ultrasonic sensor detects non-reflective surfaces and provides backup measurement capability. The infrared sensor detects thermal signatures and complements optical sensing. The capacitive sensor provides close-range detection and surface characterization. This universal multi-functional design enables the system to adapt to diverse environments without requiring completely different sensor configurations.
3Reliability
If tactile feedback devices are used for user interaction, then the feedback mechanism is simple and reliable, but the information transmission capability deteriorates due to limited resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances tactile feedback by adding temporal and pattern dimensions to the basic vibrational stimulus. The haptic actuator can produce different vibration frequencies, amplitudes, and patterns that encode multiple pieces of spatial information simultaneously. For example, different vibration patterns can indicate object distance, size, shape, and material properties, transforming a single-dimension tactile interface into a multi-dimensional information channel that preserves spatial resolution while maintaining reliability.
4Ease of operation
If the device requires constant manual handling for operation, then the user maintains control over the device, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to burden on the user's hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms through automatic device activation based on motion detection, automatic sensor calibration using environmental references, and autonomous operation modes that require minimal user intervention. The device can detect when it is being carried or worn and automatically activate appropriate sensing and feedback modes, eliminating the need for manual power switches or configuration by the user.
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 visually impaired users to achieve real-time, high-precision spatial awareness and object detection, improving navigation and safety by providing accurate distance and angle information, even in challenging environments, with reduced reliance on user hand usage and increased accuracy compared to conventional GPS systems.
Implementation Method 1
A Spatial Recognition Device (SRD) utilizing a Time of Flight (TOF) laser sensor for precise distance measurement
Implementation Method 2
These systems are based on conventional reflectance lasers. These systems are inadequate for this purpose, because there are many conditions in which these lasers will fail to reflect an adequate amount of laser beam to function
Data Source
AI summary
This invention described a Spatial Recognition Device (SRD) based on a mounted high precision measurement sensor that enables the user to detect and navigate around objects and obstacles like traditional white cane would, but without contact, and also allow the user to identify the location and shape of objects to enable identifying such obstacles and objects. The device can also provide route guidance through a GPS and collision avoidance through onboard and/or cloud based or hybrid computational systems, accelerometers and other sensors. The device enables sensing ranges from approximately one inch to a maximum range dependent on the high precision measurement sensor used in the device. This device would not be mounted on a “white cane” or similar assistive device.