Visual Arch Metaphor for Vehicle Obstacle Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems, particularly for remotely operated vehicles, face limitations in providing accurate depth perception and clearance information due to reliance on single video feeds, which can lead to ambiguity in judging obstacle sizes and maintaining adequate clearance, especially when peripheral vision is limited.
Innovation Solution
A visual display system that incorporates a visual arch metaphor, combining a conventional video feed with ranging data correlated to a color scale, allowing operators to intuitively assess clearance and obstacle proximity through an ambient visual channel, using a vehicle-based coordinate system and indicators for aiming and clearance information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single video feed is used to provide navigation information, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of obstacle distance and clearance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the visual information into two distinct channels: a central high-resolution video feed for detailed obstacle inspection and peripheral simplified visual cues for depth and clearance assessment. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall measurement precision without requiring a single complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element in the form of a heads-up display (HUD) that overlays depth information and clearance indicators onto the video feed. This intermediary provides precise measurement data without requiring the operator to switch between multiple complex devices, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
2Loss of information
If peripheral vision is limited, then the ease of operation is improved by focusing on central view, but the loss of information about surrounding obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to peripheral information display by using dynamic visual cues that update in real-time. The HUD displays depth and clearance information that changes as the vehicle moves, allowing operators to maintain central focus while still receiving updated peripheral obstacle information through the overlay indicators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color changes in the HUD overlay to encode different types of obstacle information and clearance levels. Different colors indicate different depth zones and clearance statuses, allowing operators to quickly comprehend surrounding obstacle information through color-coded peripheral indicators without needing to actively scan the environment
3Measurement precision
If relative size judgment is used to assess opening dimensions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of clearance assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual estimation method (judging clearance by relative size in video feed) with an electronic computation and display system. The HUD calculates actual clearance distances based on vehicle dimensions and overlay indicators, providing precise numerical or visual clearance assessment instead of relying on operator judgment of relative sizes
4Area of stationary object
If the camera field of view is narrowed to improve video quality, then the measurement precision of the visible area is improved, but the area of detection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the navigation system multi-functional by combining the central video feed (optimized for detailed inspection) with the HUD overlay system (optimized for clearance assessment). This universal system can simultaneously provide both high-resolution detailed views and broad clearance awareness, allowing the same display to serve multiple functions without requiring separate specialized devices
Data Source
AI summary
A visual display for use by a user for navigation and obstacle avoidance. A typical user employs the invention in operating a vehicle. The display may include a conventional video feed. A visual arch metaphor is also provided. A ranging device mounted on the vehicle collects ranging data around the vehicle. As an example, the ranging device might collect 180 degrees of ranging data extending from the vehicle's left side, across the vehicle's front, and over to the vehicle's right side. The ranging data is correlated to a predefined color scale. The ranging data is also correlated to a position on the arch metaphor.