Optical Tracking Systems Explained

How does it work?

3D Localization and Position Tracking

3D localization technology or 3D position tracking is motion capture of objects is the physical world. It refers to measuring an object’s 3D position and orientation within a defined space relative to a known reference point. This is typically done by tracking six degrees of freedom (6DOF): three positional (X, Y, Z) and three angular coordinates (roll, pitch, yaw).

Optical Tracking Technology

Optical tracking is a 3D localization method that uses two or more cameras to monitor a measurement space. Each camera is equipped with an infrared (IR) pass filter and a ring of IR LEDs that periodically illuminate the space with invisible, safe IR light.

Technology Drift Noise Sensitivity Multi-Object Wireless
Optical
✅
✅
✅
✅
Magnetic
❌
❌
⚠
⚠
Acoustic
❌
❌
⚠
⚠
Gyroscopic
❌
⚠
❌
✅
Mechanical
✅
✅
❌
❌

Advantages of Optical Tracking

Compared to other tracking technologies such as magnetic, acoustic, gyroscopic, and mechanical systems, optical tracking offers several benefits:

Resilience to environmental noise: Less susceptible to interference from external conditions.

No drift: Optical systems avoid drift issues common in other technologies.

Simultaneous multi-object tracking: Track multiple objects within the measurement space.

Lightweight wireless devices: Optical systems allow for the use of lightweight wireless interaction devices.

Feature Bar Trackers Multi-Camera
Tracking Quality
Fixed, precisely defined sensor geometry
Variable geometry, setup-dependent accuracy
Consistency
Proprietary optimized calibration
User-dependent calibration quality
Stability
Rigid structure, vibration-resistant
Sensitive to movement and vibration
Ease of Use
Factory precalibrated, plug-and-play
On-site calibration required

Bar Trackers vs Multi-Camera Systems

At PS-Tech, we specialize in high-precision bar tracker systems designed for applications where reliability, stability, and measurement integrity are essential.

The structural design and calibration philosophy behind bar trackers create measurable advantages over conventional multi-camera systems

The PST tracker family