Researchers get 3D functional analysis at record-breaking speeds

Researchers have developed a new 3D method that can be used to track objects moving at unprecedented high speeds. The real-time detection method, which is based on a single-pixel image, can be used to improve autonomous driving, industrial inspection and reservation system.

“Our method does not require reconstruction of the image of the object to estimate its position, which reduces data storage and calculation costs,” said lead researcher Zihan Geng from the Tsinghua University in China.

“In particular, obtaining a 3D coordinate requires only 6 bytes of storage space and 2.4 µs of processing time. By reducing calculation costs and improving efficiency, it is possible to reducing the cost of the equipment required for high speed, simplifying the technology and enabling new applications.”

Inside Master Letters, the researchers show a speed of detection that is more than 200-times better than traditional video-based methods. The tracking method does not require any prior processing information and can be implemented with minimal computing resources.

“This technology can improve the understanding of technologies such as self-driving cars, improve safety monitoring systems and offer effective and efficient monitoring of manufacturing facilities,” he said. said Geng. “In addition, this high-speed method can be used in scientific research, such as the study of the flight of insects.”

Improved usability

Single-pixel images are a free digital method that uses a recognizable, rather than traditional pixel array. It usually involves defining a scene with a pattern and then measuring the same contrast with a single-pixel detector.

To create a single-pixel imaging system that is more effective for detecting objects, the researchers implemented a method that does not use the algorithm, which is more efficient than the conventional method used.

This involves placing light-based patterns on two non-aligned planes, which create 3D coordinates that are used to determine the position of the object. The non-orthogonal design also reduces body size, making it easier to install and operate.

Find high speed

After validating their method using experiments, the researchers conducted experiments using a single-pixel experimental setup that includes a 532 nm laser for intense illumination, a digital micromirror device (DMD) together with a 20kHz modulation rate to create clean patterns with two single-pixels. indicator to collect light signals.

To test the tracking ability, they allowed a metal ball with a hole in the center to slide down a circular wire through under gravity while illuminated by light patterns. They used the object’s signals to estimate the object’s 3D position and used the coordinate system to obtain the coordinates of the object. planned movement of the object.

With this system, they achieved a rate of 6667 Hz and DMD at a rate of 20kHz.

The researchers say that the first challenge with this technology is that it can now be used to track a single object. They are now developing methods that allow many objects to be scanned in a single-pixel image.