Torso Tracking Distance Measurement Using Image-Guided Actuator Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distance-measuring apparatuses face issues with erroneous measurements due to the detection of pets and toys, requiring high computational resources and power, which increases battery capacity and device size when integrating 3D cameras, leading to a heavier load on motors.
Innovation Solution
A tracking-distance-measuring system that includes an image sensor, a controller, and an actuator device, which captures images, analyzes them to recognize torso objects, calculates offset distances, and calibrates the distance-measuring device to accurately detect object distances using ultrasonic or laser technology, reducing computational dependence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a 3D camera is integrated into the distance-measuring apparatus to measure the distance to a target object, then the distance measurement accuracy is improved, but the computing resources and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the measurement task by using an image sensor to capture visual information and a separate distance-measuring device (ultrasonic or laser) to measure distance, rather than relying solely on a 3D camera. This division allows each component to perform its specialized function with lower individual power consumption while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that processes image data to identify target objects and coordinates the distance-measuring device accordingly. This intermediary role reduces the computational burden on any single component by distributing processing tasks across the system.
2Measurement precision
If a 3D camera is integrated into the distance-measuring apparatus, then the distance measurement capability is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses separate, compact components (image sensor, distance-measuring device, controller) that can be arranged in a space-efficient configuration, avoiding the need for a large 3D camera module while achieving similar functional results.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor serves multiple functions: capturing visual information for target identification, determining target position, and providing data for the controller to coordinate the distance-measuring device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components that would increase device size.
3Measurement precision
If a 3D camera is integrated into the distance-measuring apparatus, then the distance measurement function is improved, but the motor load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the heavy 3D camera from the motor assembly by using lighter alternative components (image sensor plus separate distance-measuring device). This segmentation reduces the weight that the motor must carry while maintaining the distance measurement function through coordinated operation of the lighter components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a heavy 3D camera to directly measure distance, the system creates a functional equivalent by combining an image sensor (for positioning) with a lightweight distance-measuring device (for actual measurement). This copying approach achieves the same functional result with significantly reduced weight.
4Adaptability or versatility
If universal distance tracking is used to detect all objects in the vicinity, then the detection coverage is improved, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to detection of non-target objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and identifies the specific target object (human torso) from the broader field of detected objects using image analysis. By taking out the relevant target information from the general scene and focusing measurement resources on it, the system achieves both wide detection coverage and high measurement accuracy for the intended target.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different processing qualities to different parts of the visual field: the image sensor captures the entire scene for broad detection, while the controller applies specialized target recognition algorithms specifically to identify human torsos. This local quality approach ensures accurate target identification without compromising overall detection coverage.
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 accurate distance measurement while minimizing computational and power requirements, reducing the size and weight of the device, and maintaining efficient tracking of torso objects.
Implementation Method 1
the distance-measuring device emits energy and receives reflected energy to detect an object distance of the torso object
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking-distance-measuring system capable of tracking a torso object is provided. The tracking-distance-measuring system includes: an image sensor, a controller, a distance-measuring device, and an actuator device. The image sensor is configured to capture an input image. The controller is configured to analyze the input image to recognize a torso object from the input image, and calculate an offset distance between a center of the torso object and a central axis of the input image. The actuator device is configured to carry the distance-measuring device. The controller controls the actuator device to calibrate an offset angle between the distance-measuring device and the recognized torso object according to the offset distance. In response to calibrating the offset angle, the distance-measuring device emits energy and receives reflected energy to detect an object distance of the torso object.