Ultrasonic Sensor Array with Offset Receivers for 3D Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic sensor systems face challenges in accurately measuring objects in three-dimensional spatial environments due to limitations in the number of transducers required and the spacing of these transducers, which affects the direct measurement of phase, azimuth, and elevation of incoming ultrasonic waves.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a method for positioning acoustic receivers in a specific configuration to enhance the capture of incoming ultrasonic waves. This includes positioning multiple acoustic receivers along distinct axes, with offset distances from specific axes, allowing for the comparison of parallel incoming waves across unique groups of receivers. This configuration enables the determination of object position in a spatial environment by calculating elevation and azimuth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If transducers are spaced more than one-half wavelength apart, then the field of view is increased, but direct measurement of phase information becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces waveguides as intermediary structures that couple the incoming acoustic waves to the transducers. The waveguides have openings spaced less than one-half wavelength apart, allowing the transducers to be physically spaced farther apart (increasing field of view) while maintaining the ability to directly measure phase information through the waveguide structure.
2Measurement precision
If multiple transducers are used to determine three-dimensional object location, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses waveguides that extend in a dimension perpendicular to the transducer array plane. This allows the system to achieve three-dimensional measurement capability by adding a vertical dimension (through the waveguide height) rather than simply increasing the number of transducers in the horizontal plane, thereby reducing device complexity.
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
The described configuration allows for accurate determination of object position in three-dimensional space by effectively comparing parallel measurements across different groups of acoustic receivers, thereby overcoming the limitations of previous systems in terms of transducer spacing and number.
Implementation Method 1
acoustic receivers positioned along distinct axes with offset distances... receiving an incoming acoustic wave
Data Source
AI summary
Positioning acoustic receivers to sense an incoming acoustic wave uses a first receiver adjacent to a second receiver. The first and second receivers have a center point along a first axis. A third receiver is adjacent to the first receiver. A center point of the third receiver is along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. A third axis, perpendicular to the second axis, crosses the center point of the third receiver. A fourth axis crosses the center point of the second receiver and is perpendicular to the third axis. A fourth receiver is adjacent to the second and third receivers. A center point of the fourth receiver is an offset distance from the third and fourth axes. The offset is greater than zero but less than one-half a wavelength of an incoming acoustic wave.