Waymo llc (20240353265). Systems and Methods for Infrared Sensing simplified abstract

Systems and Methods for Infrared Sensing

Organization Name

waymo llc

Inventor(s)

Benjamin Frevert of Mountain View CA (US)

Zachary Morriss of San Francisco CA (US)

Systems and Methods for Infrared Sensing - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240353265 titled 'Systems and Methods for Infrared Sensing

The present disclosure pertains to systems, vehicles, and methods involving imaging and object detection using polarization-based detection of infrared light. An example system comprises at least one infrared detector that detects infrared light from a target object within a field of view, with the light having either a first or second polarization. The system also includes a controller that receives information from the infrared detector regarding the infrared light from the target object. Based on this information, the controller determines a polarization ratio for the target object, which is the first polarization intensity divided by the second polarization intensity. Additionally, the system determines whether the infrared light from the target object consists of direct light or reflected light.

• Infrared detection system utilizing polarization-based detection of infrared light
• Controller receives information from infrared detector to determine polarization ratio for target object
• Polarization ratio calculated as first polarization intensity divided by second polarization intensity
• System distinguishes between direct and reflected light from target object
• Enhances object detection capabilities in various applications

Potential Applications

The technology can be applied in surveillance systems, autonomous vehicles, security systems, and industrial automation for improved object detection and identification.

Problems Solved

The system addresses the challenge of accurately detecting and distinguishing target objects in various environments based on the polarization of infrared light they emit.

Benefits

Enhanced object detection accuracy, improved identification of objects in challenging conditions, increased security and safety in surveillance applications, and optimized performance in autonomous vehicles.

Commercial Applications

Title: Enhanced Object Detection System for Surveillance and Autonomous Vehicles The technology can be utilized in surveillance systems for perimeter security, in autonomous vehicles for obstacle detection, and in industrial automation for object identification, offering improved efficiency and safety.

Prior Art

Readers can explore prior art related to polarization-based infrared detection systems, object detection methods, and imaging technologies to gain a deeper understanding of the field.

Frequently Updated Research

Stay updated on advancements in infrared imaging, object detection algorithms, and polarization-based sensing technologies to leverage the latest innovations in the field.

Questions about Infrared Detection Systems

1. How does polarization-based detection enhance object detection capabilities?

  - Polarization-based detection allows for improved differentiation between direct and reflected light, enhancing object detection accuracy in various scenarios.

2. What are the potential challenges associated with implementing polarization-based infrared detection systems?

  - Challenges may include calibration requirements, environmental factors affecting polarization, and integration with existing imaging systems.

Original Abstract Submitted

the present disclosure relates to systems, vehicles, and methods relating to imaging and object detection using polarization-based detection of infrared light. an example system includes at least one infrared detector configured to detect infrared light corresponding to a target object within a field of view. the infrared light includes at least one of a first polarization or a second polarization. the system also includes a controller configured to carry out operations. the operations include receiving, from the at least one infrared detector, information indicative of infrared light corresponding to the target object. the operations also include determining, based on the received information, a polarization ratio corresponding to the target object. the polarization ratio comprises a first polarization intensity divided by a second polarization intensity. the operations also include determining, based on the polarization ratio, that the infrared light corresponding to the target object comprises direct light or reflected light.