System for detecting the presence and location of at least one object in a field by using a divergent radiation source and an array of opposed plural detectors which rotate together around the field
US6147759A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 3, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 3, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF41J5/02
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus detects the presence and location of at least one object in a field. The apparatus comprises a rotating arm which spins around the field, a position sensor for detecting the angular displacement of the rotating arm relative to a fixed point, and a processor. The rotating arm includes a transmitter and an opposing receiver array mounted thereon and fixed relative to each other. The receiver array includes a plurality of receivers located horizontally coplanar with each other. The receivers are concentrated towards one side of the receiver array which is aligned with a center region of the dartboard. The transmitter outputs a detection beam that emanates from a single point, such as a divergent beam. The detection beam overlaps the field and is simultaneously received at all times by the plurality of receivers of the receiver array. The receivers detect changes which occur in the field as a result of an object being in the field, manifested by shadows on the field. The processor receives output signals from the plurality of receivers and angular displacement data corresponding to the output signals, and determines therefrom the presence and location of an object in the f…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.