This device is based on a laser sensor from Garmin which allows to detect objects such as roller coaster trolleys. Using detection algorithms and digital signal processing this device can determine if a trolley is in certain distance range and trigger a camera to take a photo. Using algorithms for processing time series date a high degree of certainty was achieved. Additionally, the device is equipped with a light sensor. Data read from the sensor allows to adjust photography parameters to achieve the best picture quality.
The heart of the described device is a microcontroller with an ARM Cortex-M core. Thanks to high computation capabilities all the implemented algorithms are processed efficiently which ensure smooth detection process without any delays.
To complement device\’s functionality a dedicated desktop application was developed. It allows to visualize gathered data from the range laser in real-time and allows data analysis. Additionally, the device can be configured with the application, thus changing parameters and adjusting them to site conditions is easy. Furthermore, the parameters are stored in FLASH memory so after programming or unexpected lack of power the device retains parameters and no further action has to be taken.