Wearable Tracking Device for Automated Camera Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera tracking systems struggle to automatically and accurately follow moving objects, especially those with unpredictable movements, due to limitations in marker-based systems and lack of real-time position communication, leading to time lags and distracting camera movements.
Innovation Solution
A camera tracking system comprising a wearable tracking device that collects and communicates position data via wireless signals, allowing a camera to automatically adjust its orientation to maintain focus on the target object using a coordinate determination device, servo motors, and a smartphone application for remote operation and error correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual camera operation is used, then the camera operator can adjust the camera, but there is a significant time lag between the target object's movements and the camera movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of the camera with an automated electronic control system. A tracking device worn by the target object communicates position data wirelessly to a camera control system, which automatically adjusts camera orientation and positioning to follow the target, eliminating the time lag inherent in manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device on the target object enables the system to self-regulate and automatically follow the target without external intervention. The device continuously monitors the target's position and autonomously controls the camera to maintain tracking, making the system self-sufficient.
2Measurement precision
If multiple markers are used for tracking, then position can be determined, but the system adds weight and cost and requires precise geometric arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking functionality from complex multi-marker systems and consolidates it into a single integrated tracking device worn by the target object. This single device contains all necessary sensors and processors to determine and communicate position data, eliminating the need for multiple distributed markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The single tracking device performs multiple functions: it determines position, processes location data, and communicates with the camera system. This multi-functional device replaces the specialized roles of multiple markers, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining tracking precision.
3Loss of information
If infrared light is used for communication between markers and detector, then position data can be transmitted, but an unobstructed line of sight is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical infrared communication system with a wireless electronic communication system. The tracking device uses wireless transmitters to send position data through electronic signals that can penetrate or work around obstacles, eliminating the strict line-of-sight requirement of infrared light-based systems.
4Duration of action of moving object
If a human camera operator follows the target continuously, then tracking can be maintained, but it becomes taxing on the operator over significant time periods
Solution Approach 1:
The automated tracking system serves itself by continuously monitoring the target's position and autonomously adjusting the camera without human intervention. This eliminates operator fatigue and enables indefinite continuous tracking, as the electronic system does not experience physical exhaustion like human operators.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera tracking system allows a camera to lock onto and follow a target object dynamically and automatically, without direct human intervention, including when the object moves erratically or unpredictably.