TOF camera

Abstract

To provide a ToF camera that may be adaptively driven according to shooting purposes.SOLUTION: A ToF camera according to embodiments of the present invention comprises: a light source unit, including an infrared light-emitting device array, configured to generate a light signal; a lens unit, including a plurality of lenses, disposed on the light source unit; and an adjustment unit configured to adjust the lens unit such that a light pattern of the light signal passing through the lens unit becomes surface lighting or spot lighting including a plurality of spot patterns. The lens unit has distortion aberration in the form of barrel distortion that causes irradiance of the light pattern to decrease in a direction away from a central portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiment relates to a ToF camera. [Background technology]

[0002] 3D content is not only used in games and culture, but also in many other fields such as education, manufacturing, and autonomous driving. Depth Map is used to obtain 3D content. Depth information is information that indicates the distance in space, and it is the distance between one point in a 2D image and another point. It represents the perspective information of the point. As a method of obtaining depth information, IR (Infrared) structure Methods of projecting artificial light onto an object, using a stereo camera, TOF (Time of Flight) Light) method is used.

[0003] In the case of TOF and structured light methods, light in the infrared wavelength range is used. Recently, there have been attempts to utilize the characteristics of the infrared wavelength range for biometric authentication. For example, It is known that the shape of veins in the fingers and other areas of the body does not change from the time of birth through life, and differs from person to person. In response to this trend, a camera equipped with an infrared light source is being used to identify vein patterns. To do this, after taking a picture of the finger, the background is removed based on the color and shape of the finger. Each finger can be detected using the color information of the detected finger, and the vein pattern of each finger can be extracted. That is, the average color of the finger, the color of the veins distributed on the finger, and the wrinkles on the finger can be calculated. For example, the color of veins distributed on a finger may be less red than the average color of the finger. The wrinkles on the fingers may be darker than the average finger color. It is possible to calculate an approximate value of the vein for each pixel using The vein pattern of each finger can be extracted by comparing the extracted vein pattern with the previously Individuals can be identified by comparing the registered data.

[0004] However, in the case of conventional TOF cameras, the accuracy depends on the distance to the object and the size of the object. Regardless of the wavelength, the light output is the same in luminous intensity and magnitude. ,generates inaccurate images due to inability to acquire images or insufficient information Problems have arisen. Also, since the same light pattern is always used, it is difficult to adapt to the purpose of the shooting. This causes problems such as the inability to drive the device efficiently and the inability to control power consumption efficiently. When receiving reflected light, peripheral information is lost at the receiving stage, reducing the reliability of the data. There are some problems with this. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The embodiment provides a ToF camera that can be adaptively driven according to the purpose of imaging.

[0006] Another object of the embodiment is to provide a ToF camera that can efficiently control power consumption.

[0007] In addition, the embodiment provides a ToF camera that can acquire highly reliable data. .

[0008] The problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to these, and include the problems described below. It can be said that the present invention also includes the objectives and effects that can be grasped from the solutions and embodiments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The ToF camera according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an infrared light emitting element array to generate an optical signal. a light source unit; a lens unit disposed on the light source unit and including a plurality of lenses; and The light pattern of the optical signal that has passed through the light source may be a surface illumination or a spot illumination including a plurality of spot patterns. an adjusting unit for adjusting the lens unit so as to provide illumination, and the lens unit is configured to adjust the optical pattern; Barrel distortion occurs when the irradiance of a lens decreases as it moves away from the center. The lens has distortion that forms a ion.

[0010] The adjusting unit adjusts the optical pattern of the optical signal by changing the optical path of the optical signal. can be done.

[0011] The adjustment unit includes a driving member, and moves the lens unit through the driving member to adjust the The distance between the light source unit and the lens unit can be changed.

[0012] When the rear focal point of the lens unit moves away from the light source unit, the light pattern of the optical signal shifts to the surface. When the rear focus of the lens unit approaches the light source unit, the light pattern of the optical signal The spotlight can be the spotlight.

[0013] The adjusting unit includes an optical element capable of changing a refractive index, and adjusts the refractive index according to a signal applied to the optical element. Thus, the refractive index can be changed.

[0014] The lens section has an effective focal length (EFL ) may be greater than or equal to 0.4 mm and less than or equal to 2 mm.

[0015] The distortion aberration is a symbol corresponding to the barrel distortion. and the half angle of the viewing angle of the lens portion is 5% or more and 20% or less. The following distortion magnitudes may be used:

[0016] The distortion rate from the center of the lens unit to the half angle point of the viewing angle of the lens unit is It can be monotonically increasing for each code.

[0017] The distortion has a magnitude of 1% or less at 1 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens unit. It is possible.

[0018] The distortion aberration is 4% or more and 10% or less at a point of 2 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens portion. It can have a size.

[0019] The distortion is 10% or more and 20% or less at a point of 3 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens portion. It can have a rate magnitude.

[0020] The distortion is 13% at the half angle of the field of view of the lens unit. The distortion rate may be greater than or equal to 20%.

[0021] The viewing angle of the lens portion may have any one value between 69 degrees and 80 degrees. do.

[0022] The light source unit responds to a plurality of driving modes set corresponding to different spot densities. At least one of the plurality of light emitting elements can be driven accordingly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the embodiment, it is possible to improve the efficiency of power consumption. Moreover, it can be driven adaptively to the purpose of photography. Furthermore, the accuracy and reliability of the captured images can be improved.

[0024] The various advantageous effects and advantages of the present invention are not limited to those described above, but may be realized by specific embodiments of the present invention. This will be more easily understood in the course of explaining the embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 4 is a diagram illustrating an optical signal generated by a light emitting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a light-emitting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram illustrating adjustment of a light pattern according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] 2 is a view illustrating a driving member according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement structure of optical members according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram illustrating an electrowetting-based liquid lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram illustrating a shape-changing polymer-based liquid lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram illustrating a refractive index lens according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating a refractive index lens according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram illustrating an acoustic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12]1 is a diagram illustrating a lens unit to which distortion is applied according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 13a] 1 is a diagram illustrating symbols of distortion according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 13b] 1 is a diagram illustrating symbols of distortion according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 14] 10 is a diagram showing a simulation result of surface illumination according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 10 is a diagram showing a simulation result of surface illumination according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 2 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement and connection structure of a plurality of light emitting devices according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 17] 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of driving the light emitting element arrangement and connection structure of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] 10 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement and connection structure of a plurality of light emitting devices according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] 19 is a diagram for explaining an example of driving the light emitting element arrangement and connection structure of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of driving a portion of a light source unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 21] 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of driving a portion of a light source unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the examples described. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms, and the structure of the embodiments may be changed without departing from the scope of the present invention. One or more of the constituent elements may be selectively combined or substituted.

[0028] Furthermore, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention are expressly and specifically Unless otherwise defined and described, the present invention will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. and commonly used terms such as those defined in a dictionary. may be able to interpret its meaning in light of the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0029] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of explaining the embodiments, and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It is not intended to limit

[0030] As used herein, the singular can include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, such as "A and If "(and) at least one of B and C" is stated, then A, B, and C The present invention may include one or more of all possible combinations of the above.

[0031] In addition, in the description of the components of the embodiment of the present invention, first, second, A, B, (a), (b ) and other terms can be used.

[0032] Such terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and The terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0033] And, it is described that a component is "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to another component. When mounted, the component is directly coupled, connected, or joined to other components. Not only when the component is in a state where it is not a component, but also when there are other components between that component and other components. This also includes cases where the components are "coupled," "coupled," or "connected."

[0034] In addition, it is written that it is formed or placed "above or below" each component. When mounted, the upper and lower parts are in direct contact with each other. In addition, one or more other components may be formed or disposed between the two components. Also, when it is expressed as "above" or "below," it means that one component It can include the meaning of not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on the element.

[0035] The camera module 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention is a ToF (Time of Flight) It can refer to a camera or camera device that utilizes a function to extract depth information. The camera module 10 is a ToF camera device, the ToF camera module 10, the ToF camera It can be mixed with.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, a camera module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a light emitting unit 100. and a light receiving unit 200, and may further include a control unit 300 and a processing unit 400. This can be done.

[0038] The light emitting unit 100 is a unit that generates an optical signal and then outputs the generated optical signal to an object. For this purpose, the light emitting unit 100 has a configuration capable of generating light like a light emitting element, and a configuration capable of converting light into a module. The optical signal can be a pulse wave. in pulsewave or continuous wave form It is possible. Continuous waves are sine waves and square waves. ave).

[0039] In addition, the light emitting unit 100 can distort the optical path of the optical signal and output it. The path can be distorted by a preset distortion.

[0040] In addition, the light emitting unit 100 can output optical signals with various light patterns. The light source 0 can output a light signal for surface lighting or a light signal for spot lighting. 100 may include a structure that can change the optical path of an optical signal in response to a control signal.

[0041] In addition, the light emitting unit 100 can output optical signals to various illumination areas. The light emitting element array can be driven in different regions to output optical signals to various illumination regions. The light emitting unit 100 may include a light emitting element array for changing the illumination area according to a control signal. Cut.

[0042] The light receiving unit 200 can detect light reflected from an object. At this time, the detected optical signal is the optical signal output from the light emitting unit 100. The light receiving unit 200 may receive a lens to detect the light signal. It may include a filter assembly and a sensor.

[0043] The optical signal reflected from the object can pass through the lens assembly. The optical axis can be aligned with the optical axis of the sensor. The filter may be placed on the optical path between the object and the sensor. The filter can filter light having a predetermined wavelength range. A filter can transmit light of a specific wavelength band. For example, the filter can pass light in the wavelength band of the optical signal output by the light emitting unit 100. The filter allows light in the infrared band to pass through and blocks light outside the infrared band. Alternatively, the filter can pass visible light and block light of wavelengths other than visible light. The sensor can sense light. The sensor receives an optical signal. The sensor may be an image sensor that senses an optical signal. The sensor can sense the signal and output it as an electrical signal. The sensor can detect light in the infrared band. Alternatively, the sensor can sense light in the visible light range. A pixel array that converts light passing through the pixel into a corresponding electrical signal. The drive circuit that drives the multiple pixels and the analog pixel signal of each pixel are connected. The readout circuit may include an analog readout circuit. The digital pixel signal is compared with a reference signal and converted to a digital pixel through analog-to-digital conversion. Here, the pixel array can generate a pixel signal (or video signal). The digital pixel signal of each pixel constitutes a video signal, which is transmitted in frames. The image sensor can be defined as an image frame because it captures multiple images. It is possible to output a frame.

[0044] The light receiving unit 200 can be arranged side by side with the light emitting unit 100. The light receiving unit 200 and the light emitting unit 100 may be arranged in the same direction.

[0045] The control unit 300 controls the driving of at least one of the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 200. In one embodiment, the control unit 300 generates a control signal, and the generated control signal The driving of the light emitting elements of the light emitting unit 100 can be controlled through the signal. The control unit 300 generates a control signal and controls the change of the optical path of the optical signal through the generated control signal. It can be controlled.

[0046] The control unit 300 may be included in the camera module 10 as shown in FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b). For example, the control unit 300 may be implemented in a form coupled to the substrate of the camera module 10. In another embodiment, the control unit 300 may control the camera module as shown in (c) and (d) of FIG. For example, the processing unit 400 may be included in a camera module. The application processor of a smartphone equipped with Module 10 The AP may be implemented in the form of a synchronous processing processor (AP).

[0047] The processing unit 400 can generate an image based on the electrical signal generated by the light receiving unit 200. The processing unit 400 generates subframe images from the electrical signals generated for each phase pulse period. The processing unit 400 then generates a plurality of signals during the frame pulse period. A single frame image can be generated from the sub-frame images. Even if a single high-resolution image is generated through multiple sub-frame images or multiple frame images, For example, the processing unit 400 may use a super resolution (SR) technique. This allows for the generation of high-resolution images.

[0048] The processing unit 400 may be included in the camera module 10, as shown in (a) and (d) of FIG. For example, the processing unit 400 may be implemented in a form combined with a sensor included in the light receiving unit 200. As another example, the processing unit 400 may be bonded to a substrate on which the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 200 are disposed. In another embodiment, the processing unit 400 may be implemented as a combined unit. As shown in (c) and (d), the camera module 10 may be included in the terminal 20. For example, when the camera module 10 is installed in a smartphone, the processing unit 400 The phone's application processor (A P).

[0049] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an optical signal generated by a light emitting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the light emitting unit 100 generates light pulses at regular intervals. The light emitting unit 100 emits light at a predetermined pulse repetition period (t modulation ) in the specified Pulse width (t pulse ) can be generated.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the light emitting unit 100 groups a certain number of light pulses. The light emitting unit 100 can generate a single phase pulse by grouping. The constant phase pulse period (t phase ) and a given phase pulse width (t exposure、 t i llumination , t integration ) to generate a phase pulse having Here, one phase pulse period (t phase ) corresponds to one subframe A sub-frame is a phase frame. The phase pulse periods can be grouped into a predetermined number of groups. The phase pulse period (t phase ) grouping method is called 4-phase method Eight periods (t pphase ) grouping is 8-phase system It can be called.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2(c), the light emitting unit 100 groups a certain number of phase pulses. The light emitting unit 100 can generate one frame pulse by synchronizing the predetermined frame pulse. Luminous period (t frame ) and a given frame pulse width (t phasegroup(sub -framegroup) ) where: One frame pulse period (t frame ) can correspond to one frame. Therefore, when shooting an object at 10 FPS, the frame pulse period (t frame ) can be repeated. In the 4-phase method, one frame contains four subframes. A frame can be included, i.e., one frame is generated through four subframes. In the 8-phase method, one frame can include 8 subframes. That is, one frame can be generated through eight subframes.

[0053] For the purpose of explanation above, the terms optical pulse, phase pulse, and frame pulse have been used. , but is not limited to this.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of a light emitting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the light emitting unit 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a light source unit 110, a lens The control unit 120 and the adjustment unit 130 may be included.

[0055] The light source unit 110 has a plurality of light emitting elements arranged according to a predetermined rule, and generates an optical signal. The light source unit 110 has a plurality of driving modes set corresponding to different spot densities. At least one of the plurality of light emitting elements can be driven according to the mode. The light source unit 110 may have light emitting elements arranged and electrically connected according to a certain rule.

[0056] First, when we examine the arrangement of the light emitting elements in detail, the light emitting elements are arranged in multiple lines including the first to third lines. In this case, the second line is disposed between the first and third lines, and the first to third lines are disposed between the first and third lines. The third line may be arranged repeatedly.

[0057] Next, the connection of the light emitting elements will be considered in detail. In one embodiment, the first to third lines are In this case, a plurality of driving modes are provided. a first driving motor for driving a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the first line, the second line, and the third line; a second driving mode for driving a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in the first line and the third line; and a third driving mode for driving a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in a first line. In another embodiment, the first line may include at least one Adjacent light emitting elements among the light emitting elements are connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively; The light emitting elements arranged in the second line are connected to the third electrode, and the light emitting elements arranged in the third line are connected to the third electrode. Adjacent light emitting elements among the plurality of light emitting elements are connected to the fourth electrode and the fifth electrode, respectively. In this case, the plurality of driving modes may be a fourth driving mode for driving a plurality of light-emitting elements connected to the first, second, fourth and fifth electrodes; a fifth driving mode for driving a plurality of light-emitting elements connected to the first and second electrodes; In the driving mode, a plurality of light-emitting elements connected to the first and fourth electrodes or the second and fifth electrodes are driven. and a seventh driving mode in which a first electrode is connected to one of the first, second, fourth and fifth electrodes. At least one of an eighth driving mode for driving the plurality of light emitting elements may be included.

[0058] The light source unit 110 is a light emitting element arranged in a partial area of ​​the entire area where a plurality of light emitting elements are arranged. In one embodiment, the light source unit 110 is located at a predetermined distance from the center. In another embodiment, the light source unit 1 can drive a plurality of light emitting elements arranged therein. 10 is divided into a plurality of areas, and a plurality of The light emitting element can be driven.

[0059] The lens unit 120 corrects the light of the optical signal by a preset distortion. The lens unit 120 can output the light by distorting the path. A preset distortion can be applied.

[0060] At this time, the distortion aberration has a sign corresponding to barrel distortion. and the half angle of the viewing angle of the lens unit 120 is 5% or more and 20% or less. The distortion rate is as follows: The distortion magnitude increases monotonically (monotonically increasing) for each field up to the point According to one embodiment, the viewing angle of the lens unit 120 is about 69 degrees to 80 degrees. For example, the lens unit 120 has a viewing angle of 70 degrees. It can have.

[0061] The light pattern is barrel distortion, which corresponds to distortion aberration. The light pattern can be generated in the form of a radiant intensity (IR) that decreases as the distance from the center increases. vance) may increase.

[0062] The lens unit 120 has an effective focal length (EFL ) may be greater than or equal to 0.4 mm and less than or equal to 2 mm.

[0063] The lens unit 120 may include at least one lens. The lenses may be arranged at fixed intervals. The lenses may be arranged by a driving member. Therefore, the lenses can be moved together by the driving member. The spacing between the lenses may be maintained.

[0064] The adjusting unit 130 adjusts the light pattern of the light signal irradiated on the object to a surface light or a plurality of spots. The adjustment unit 130 changes the optical path of the optical signal to adjust the light. The light pattern of the signal can be adjusted with area lighting or spot lighting. This can be used when the object is located close to the camera module. This can be used when the object is located far away from the camera module. Since the light intensity of the light source is higher than that of the surface light, the amount of light that can be received is large and the object This is because the distance can be measured accurately.

[0065] The adjustment unit 130 may include a driving member or an optical member to adjust the light pattern. According to one embodiment, the driving member may be coupled to the lens unit 120. 120 as a whole, or a part of the lens unit 120 (for example, a lens lens) The adjustment unit 130 can be coupled to the lens unit 1 through a driving member. The distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120 can be changed by moving the light source unit 110. The optical path of the signal may be changed depending on the distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120. For example, The driving member may be an actuator. The adjustment unit 130 may be coupled to the lens unit 120. The adjustment unit 130 drives the actuator to move the lens unit 120. By moving the lens unit 120, the distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120 can be changed. The optical path of the optical signal may be changed depending on the distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120.

[0066] According to another embodiment, the optical element can be coupled to the lens portion 120. 120 in the form of an add-in or add-on. The optical element can change its refractive index. The adjusting unit 130 adjusts the signal applied to the optical element. The refractive index can be changed by the optical signal. The optical path of the optical signal changes due to the changed refractive index. For example, the optical element may be a liquid lens. The liquid lens may be configured to change in response to an applied signal. This can change the curvature of the interface between the two liquids, and the refractive index can change depending on the curvature of the interface. Therefore, the optical path of the optical signal can be changed due to the curvature of the interface.

[0067] The light pattern adjustment configuration according to the embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to FIGS. 4 to 9. I'll investigate further.

[0068] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the adjustment of a light pattern according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 4 shows a light pattern of an optical signal irradiated onto an object. Referring to FIG. 4, the camera module 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention detects light irradiated onto an object. The light pattern of the signal can be adjusted. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the light pattern is a surface light. The surface light source pattern can be divided into a surface light source pattern and a point light source pattern. It can mean a pattern in which light is uniformly spread over space. A point light source pattern is shown in Figure 4(b). The adjustment unit 130 may be configured to adjust the surface light. The optical signal is irradiated onto the object by either a source pattern or a point light source pattern. The light pattern can be adjusted as follows:

[0070] As seen in detail in FIG. 3, the adjusting unit 130 includes a driving member or a light source for adjusting the light pattern. For example, the driving member may be an actuator. The motor is a voice coil motor (VCM), MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) cro-ElectroMechanicalSystems, Piezoelectric oElectric) or Shape Memory Alloys (SM A) The optical element may be a liquid lens. idlens and tunable refractive index lenses The liquid lens can be electrowetting or It could be a shape-changing polymer-based lens. The variable refractive index lens is a liquid crystal lens or It may be an acoustic lens. Next, we will look at examples of the drive and optical members in detail.

[0071] FIG. 5 is a view for explaining a driving member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] As discussed above, the adjustment unit 130 may include a drive member coupled to the lens unit. The adjustment unit 130 moves the lens unit through the driving member to adjust the distance between the light source unit and the lens unit. Therefore, the adjustment unit 130 shown in FIG. It is possible.

[0073] 5, the lens unit 120 may be spaced apart from the light source unit 110. 120 can include at least one lens and a housing. 120 may be composed of one lens or two or more lenses. The jing may be a frame that can accommodate at least one lens.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the driving member is coupled to the lens unit 120 as shown in FIG. 5(b). For example, the drive member may be coupled to a housing included in the lens portion 120. According to another embodiment of the present invention, not shown in FIG. 5, the driving member may comprise at least one In this case, the housing may be configured so that at least one lens is coupled to the driving member. At this time, the lens unit 120 may be formed in a structure that can move in communication with the lens unit 120. The source 110 can be moved along the optical axis formed by it.

[0075] When there is no driving member as in FIG. 5(a), the lens unit 120 and the light source unit 110 are fixed. However, as shown in Figure 5(b), In the case where the driving member is included, the driving member is arranged to move in the space between the lens unit 120 and the light source unit 110. The driving member can change the distance between the lens unit 120 and the light emitting unit 100. As a result of the change in the light pattern of the light signal irradiated on the object, the light pattern may be changed. As the distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120 decreases, the light pattern becomes closer to a surface light source pattern. The greater the distance between the light source unit 110 and the lens unit 120, the more the light pattern becomes point light. It is possible to get closer to the source pattern.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of optical members according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] As discussed above, the adjusting unit 130 may include an optical element that can change the refractive index. Therefore, the adjustment unit 130 shown in Fig. 5 may be an optical member.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the optical member is attached to the lens unit 120 as shown in FIG. 6(a). The optical member may be attached to the upper end of the lens unit 120 in an add-on form. Here, the upper end of the lens unit 120 refers to the surface of the lens unit 120 from which an optical signal is output. Although not shown in FIG. 6(a), the optical member is attached to the lower end of the lens portion 120. Here, the lower end of the lens unit 120 is the end where the optical signal is input. This refers to one surface of the lens portion 120.

[0079] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the optical member is attached to the lens portion 120 as shown in FIG. 6(b). As described above, the lens unit 120 may be formed of at least one lens. In this case, the optical element can include two or more lenses. It can be coupled between lenses in the form of an add-in.

[0080] For convenience of explanation, FIG. 6 shows a structure in which one optical member is combined in an add-on or add-in form. Although the structure shown is an optical fiber, two or more optical elements may be combined in an add-on or add-in configuration. Alternatively, the present invention may be implemented in a structure in which the functions are combined in the form of an add-on or an add-in.

[0081] The configuration of the optical members will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0082] FIG. 7 shows an electrowetting-based liquid according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating a lens.

[0083] The electrowetting-based liquid lens is composed of two different liquids and a housing that contains the two liquids. The electrode may be composed of a conductive liquid and a non-conductive liquid. Two liquids can form an interface due to their different properties and refractive indices. When electricity is applied through the electrodes, the applied electricity causes the bending of the interface. The rate will change.

[0084] For example, the light output surface can be controlled to expand as shown in Figure 7(a), or as shown in Figure 7(b). In other words, the curvature of the interface can be controlled to make the light output surface concave. The focal length can be changed by changing

[0085] The present invention aims to change the optical path of an optical signal through such an electrowetting-based liquid lens. The light pattern can be adjusted by

[0086] FIG. 8 shows a shape-changing polymer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating a liquid lens based on a ymer.

[0087] Shape-changing polymer-based liquid lenses can be in the form of a membrane filled with liquid. The shape-changing polymer-based liquid lens consists of a ring surrounding the edge of a liquid-filled membrane. The shape of the liquid-filled membrane changes depending on the voltage applied to the connected actuator. The shape may bulge, but may also flatten or become concave.

[0088] For example, the shape-changing polymer-based liquid lens shown in Figure 8(a) is a ring-shaped lens. When pressure is applied to the edge of the lens, the liquid lens on the shape-changing polymer base changes shape as shown in Figure 8(b). As a result, the focal length in Figure 8(b) becomes shorter than that in Figure 8(a). It can be seen that...

[0089] The present invention changes the optical path of an optical signal through such a shape-changing polymer-based liquid lens. By doing so, the light pattern can be adjusted.

[0090] 9 and 10 are refractive index lenses according to embodiments of the present invention. 1 is a diagram for explaining a dexlens.

[0091] Figure 9 shows a gradient index lens (GRIN lens), a type of refractive index lens. As shown in Figure 9, the GRIN lens is a An image is formed by utilizing the phenomenon in which the path of light rays gradually bends in a medium whose refractive index changes continuously. This lens uses the principle of deflection to apply a certain refractive index distribution. The refractive index of the lens varies with position as well as the gradient constant. It is possible.

[0092] As shown in Figure 10(a) and (b), the GRIN lens can have different types and structures of liquid crystals. As shown in Figure 10(a), when using nematic liquid crystal, the liquid crystal molecules are oriented in the direction of the electric field. As another example, the refractive index can be controlled by realigning the layers as shown in FIG. In the case of ferroelectric liquid crystals, the liquid crystal molecules rotate around a certain cone angle and realign. The refractive index can be controlled by adjusting the refractive index. The polymer structure is then turned into glass by the light-gathering power It may be placed between the

[0093] The refractive index lens changes the alignment of the liquid crystals to change the light of the optical signal passing through the refractive index lens. It is possible to change the path, thereby adjusting the light pattern of the optical signal. .

[0094] FIG. 11 shows an acoustic lens according to an embodiment of the present invention. ) is a drawing for explaining.

[0095] Referring to Figure 11, an acoustic lens refracts waves at the interface between different media. Light and light waves also have the properties of waves, so When an acoustic lens is exposed to sound waves, the sound waves cause the lens to The medium is changed, which can change the refractive index, and through this, the light pattern of the optical signal can be adjusted.

[0096] As seen in detail in FIGS. 4 to 11, the camera module 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention The optical signal's light pattern is converted into a surface light according to the resolution of the optical signal, the distance to the object, and the power consumption. You can change the source to a point source and change the resolution of the point source, making it suitable for a variety of applications. It has the advantage of being able to flexibly respond to application requirements.

[0097] The distortion of the lens unit 120 will be examined in detail below with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15. do.

[0098] Aberration is when light coming from one point does not converge to one point after passing through the optical system when forming an image. Aberration is broadly classified into monochromatic aberration (monochromatic aberration) and ation and chromatic aberration. So, monochromatic aberration originates from the geometric shape of the lens, and spherical aberration, coma aberration, There are astigmatism, curvature and distortion.

[0099] Of these, distortion occurs when a flat object perpendicular to the optical axis has a different shape on the upper surface perpendicular to the optical axis. Distortion refers to the phenomenon of non-image formation. Distortion can be an aberration that represents defects in the shape reproduction of an image. The types of distortion are barrel distortion and pincushion distortion. and can be called negative distortion and positive distortion, respectively.

[0100] Distortion is expressed as a percentage of the ideal image height relative to the distance away from the ideal image position. This can be expressed as the following equation 1.

[0101]

number

[0102] Here, Distortion (%) represents the distortion rate, and y real is the position of the changed image represents the position, and y paraxial represents the ideal image position, i.e., y real is distorted means the position of the image, and y paraxial means the position of the image when there is no distortion do.

[0103] If distortion exists, in the case of imaging equipment such as a projector, In the case of imaging equipment such as a camera, distortion occurs in the transmitted image. To solve this problem, we have developed a system that uses a projection lens, such as a projector or camera. Use a lens that minimizes distortion in such equipment or minimize distortion through image correction. Generally, lenses with distortion of 3% or less are used.

[0104] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a lens unit to which distortion aberration is applied according to an embodiment of the present invention. is.

[0105] FIG. 12(a) shows the field on the side of the lens unit 120, and FIG. 12(b) shows the field on the side of the lens unit 120. b) shows the field from an objective perspective.

[0106] The light emitting unit 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a lens unit 120 to which intentional distortion is applied. The lens unit 120 according to the embodiment of the present invention uses a preset distortion for each field. Aberrations can be applied, i.e., if the lens section 120 can be divided into 10 fields, In this case, the distortion can be set for each of the 10 fields. The distortion set for each field may be different or may be partially different. may be identical.

[0107] For example, when the FOI (Field Of Illumination) of the light-emitting unit 100 is 70 degrees, FOI means the viewing angle based on the light emitting unit 100, which is the viewing angle of the light receiving unit 200. It can correspond to FOV (Field Of View). The viewing angle can be set based on the diagonal. , may be set based on a horizontal angle or a vertical angle.

[0108] In this case, if the field is divided into seven parts as shown in Figure 12, each field is adjacent. There can be a difference of 7 degrees between the fields. When dividing into fields, set in advance for each of the 0th to 6th fields. That is, the lens unit 120 can apply the distortion aberration to the 0th field to the 6th field. The 0th to 6th distortions can be applied to each field. Optical signals distorted by the 0th to 6th distortions are incident on the 1st to 6th fields. It can be done.

[0109] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the distortion magnitude is 5% or more in a range larger than the half angle of the FOI. Here, the half angle of the FOI may refer to an angle corresponding to half of the FOI. For example, if the FOI is 70 degrees, the half angle of the FOI may be 35 degrees. In this case, the distortion rate can be set to 5% or more at FOI 35 degrees. The effective focal length of unit 120 and the size of light source unit 110 may be determined, which can be calculated using the following formula: It can be expressed as in Equation 2.

[0110]

number

[0111] Here, θ denotes FOI, EFL denotes the effective focal length of the lens unit 120, and L denotes It means the diagonal length of the light source unit 110. According to an embodiment, the diagonal length of the light source unit 110 is It means the distance between the diagonally arranged vcsels among the vcsels included in the light source part. You can taste it.

[0112] For example, when the FOI is 35 degrees, the effective focal length of the lens unit 120 and the The lengths of the diagonals can have the following relationship:

[0113]

number

[0114] The distortion increases monotonically from the center of the lens section 120 to the half angle of the FOI. The distortion may be increased from the center of the lens unit 120 to the center of the FOI. The distortion rate may increase monotonically for each field up to the half angle. is included in the third field, the 0th field to the 1st field including the center of the lens unit 120 The distortion magnitude can increase monotonically up to three fields.

[0115] On the other hand, the distortion aberration is maintained or reduced in a range larger than the half angle of the lens unit 120. In the above example, it is assumed that the lens unit 120 is divided into six fields. Therefore, the distortion rate of the fourth to sixth fields will be greater than that of the third field. This is not possible.

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the lens unit 120 is a barrel lens that corresponds to the distortion of the light pattern. Therefore, the optical signal incident on the object can be distorted. The light pattern of the optical signal may be in the form of barrel distortion.

[0117] 13a and 13b are diagrams for explaining the signs of distortion according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a surface.

[0118] First, let us take a closer look at the configuration of the lens portion shown in Figures 13a and 13b.

[0119] The lens unit according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged in this order from the light source side to the object side. The lens may include a third lens and a fourth lens. A diaphragm may be arranged at the

[0120] The first lens may be a single lens or a compound lens in which multiple lenses are combined. One lens can have positive (+) power.

[0121] The first lens may be a single lens. The first lens may have a flat surface facing the light source. The lens may have a concave surface on the object side facing the light source.

[0122] The first lens may be a combined lens in which multiple lenses are combined. The first lens may be a combined lens in which two lenses are combined. The 1-1 to 1-3 lenses may be combined to form a combined lens. The 1-1 lens is positioned on the light source side. The surface of the first lens may be flat. The surface of the first lens may be bulged toward the object side in the direction of the light source. The first and second lenses may have a concave surface on the light source side toward the light source, and the first and second lenses may have a flat surface on the object side. The first to third lenses may have a flat surface on the light source side. It can be dented.

[0123] The second lens may be a single lens or a compound lens in which multiple lenses are combined. The two lenses may have positive (+) power.

[0124] The second lens may be a single lens. The second lens may have a bulging surface facing the light source. The second lens may have a flat object-side surface.

[0125] The second lens may be a compound lens in which multiple lenses are combined. The second lens may be a combined lens in which two lenses are combined. The 2-1st lens and the 2-3rd lens may be combined to form a combined lens. The 2-1st lens is positioned in the direction of the light source. The surface of the 2-1 lens facing the light source may be bulged toward the object side. The surface of the first lens facing the light source can be flat. The surface of the second lens facing the object can be bulged toward the light source. The surface of the second and third lenses on the light source side can bulge in the direction of the light source. The surface of the second and third lenses on the object side can be flat. It can be a surface.

[0126] The third lens may be a single lens or a compound lens in which multiple lenses are combined. 3 The lens may have positive (+) power.

[0127] The third lens may be a single lens. The third lens may have a bulging surface facing the light source. The third lens may have a flat object-side surface.

[0128] The third lens may be a combined lens in which multiple lenses are combined. The third lens may be a combined lens in which two lenses are combined. The 3-1 to 3-3 lenses may be combined to form a combined lens. The 3-1 lens is positioned in the direction of the light source. The surface of the 3-1 lens facing the light source may be bulged toward the object side. The surface of the 3-2 lens facing the object side may be bulged toward the light source. The surface of the 3-3 lens on the light source side can bulge in the direction of the light source. The surface of the 3-3 lens on the object side can be flat. It can be a surface.

[0129] The fourth lens may be a single lens or a compound lens in which multiple lenses are combined. 4. The lens may have positive (+) power.

[0130] The fourth lens may be a single lens. The fourth lens may have a flat surface facing the light source. The lens may have a concave surface on the object side facing the light source.

[0131] The fourth lens may include three lenses. The fourth lenses are arranged in order from the light source side to the object side. The placed lenses 4-1 to 4-3 may be combined into a combined lens. The surface of the 4-1 lens facing the light source may be flat. The surface of the 4-2 lens facing the object may be concave toward the light source. The surface of the -2 lens facing the light source can be concave. The surface of the 4-2 lens facing the object is flat. The surface of the 4-3 lens facing the light source can be flat. The surface may be recessed.

[0132] Surface illumination and spot illumination can be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the focal point of the lens unit and the upper surface of the light source unit 110. According to one embodiment, the back focus of the lens unit can be adjusted to the light source unit 11. The closer you get to the top of the 0, the more the light emitter emits a light pattern similar to spot lighting, and the further away you get, According to one embodiment, the rear focus of the lens unit is When the back focus coincides with the upper surface of the light source unit 110, the smallest spot size is generated. A spotlight containing a spot may be output.

[0133] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the distortion applied to the lens unit 120 corresponds to barrel distortion. It can have a code.

[0134] 13a shows a case where the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 200 are arranged in the same direction. The light-emitting unit 100 and the light-receiving unit 200 are arranged in the same direction as each other. For example, the front of the object may be positioned as the first When the rear surface of the object is assumed to be in the second direction, the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 200 are both in the first direction. It can mean that the light emitting unit 100 is arranged in one direction or in a second direction. When the light receiving section 200 is disposed on the same substrate, the light emitting section 100 and the light receiving section 200 are oriented in the same direction. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 20 If the zeros are placed in the same direction, the distortion can have a positive sign. If the sign of the light emitting unit 100 is positive, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 may have a barrel distortion shape. If the distortion has a negative sign, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 will be pincushion-shaped. It may have a distortion form.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 13a, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 becomes distorted as it moves from the center to the end. For example, when the FOI is 70 degrees, the curvature becomes approximately 0 degrees (lens part The distortion rate is within 1% at 10 degrees from the center of the lens (1 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens). At 0 degrees (2 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens), the distortion rate is between 4% and 10%, and 30 It can be seen that the degree point (3 / 7 point of the lens's field of view) is more than 10% and less than 20%. From 20 degrees onwards, the rate of increase in distortion becomes larger, and at the 35-degree point (i.e., the lens part) It can be seen that the distortion rate at the half angle point of the viewing angle is between 13% and 20%. As described above, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 has a large change in distortion rate from the center to a predetermined distance. However, the distortion rate increases from a certain distance. Even if the cell outputs light with the same optical power, the intensity of the light in the outer region increases due to the distortion rate. Therefore, it is possible to compensate for the light loss occurring at the periphery of the light pattern.

[0136] FIG. 13b shows a case where the light emitting unit 100 is placed in the same direction as the object. The light emitting unit 100 and the object are arranged in the same direction as the light receiving unit 200. For example, the front surface of the light receiving unit 200 is in the first direction, If the rear surface of the light receiving unit 200 is assumed to be in the second direction, the light emitting unit 100 and the object are all in the first direction. In this case, the light emitting unit 100 and the light receiving unit 110 are arranged in the first direction or in the second direction. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting unit 100 and the customer If the body is positioned in the same direction, the distortion can have a negative sign. If ρ has a negative sign, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 may have a barrel distortion form. If the distortion has a negative sign, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 will be pincushion-shaped. It may have a distortion form.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 13b, the light pattern of the light emitting unit 100 becomes distorted as it moves from the center to the end. It can be seen that the curvature increases. At approximately 10 degrees, the distortion rate is within -1%, and up to 30 degrees It can be seen that the distortion rate is within -4%. From 20 degrees onwards, the increase in distortion rate becomes larger. It can be seen that the light emitting unit 10 has a distortion rate of -12% at an angle of 75 degrees. The light pattern of 0 does not change much in distortion from the center up to a certain distance, but Therefore, all the pixels in the light-emitting area must have the same optical power. Even if light is output from the lens, the intensity of the light increases in the outer area due to the distortion rate, so the light pattern It is possible to compensate for the light loss that occurs in the peripheral area.

[0138] 14 and 15 show the results of simulation of surface illumination according to an embodiment of the present invention. This is a drawing.

[0139] 14 and 15 show the results when distortion is not applied and when distortion is applied according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the fact that distortion is not applied means that This can mean using a lens that minimizes distortion, which is commonly used. For example, This is possible when using a lens with a distortion of less than 3%.

[0140] Figure 14 shows the simulation results in a Cartesian coordinate system, and Figure 15 shows the simulation results in a spherical coordinate system. The results of the simulation are shown in Fig. 14(a) and Fig. 15(a). The simulation results are shown in Fig. 14(b) and Fig. 15 when the (b) is a simulation result for the present invention in which field-specific distortion is applied. do.

[0141] First, let us examine the case where field-specific distortion is not applied. In the graphs showing the distortion aberration in FIG. 15(a), for example, when the FOI is 70 degrees, The distortion rate is within 1% from approximately 0 degrees (the center of the lens) to 10 degrees, and It can be seen that the distortion rate is greater than 4% and greater than 10% at the 30 degree point. As the distortion rate increases, the 35-degree point (i.e., half the viewing angle of the lens) It can be seen that the distortion rate at point (point 1) is greater than 13%. Spot illumination can be expressed as the distance between each spot in both the Cartesian and spherical coordinate systems. The distance is almost constant. The surface lighting also has a nearly uniform light intensity (irradiance or is the radiation intensity) appears throughout the entire image.

[0142] On the other hand, when field-specific distortion is applied in Fig. 14(b) and Fig. 15(b), If we look closely at the graph showing distortion, for example, when the FOI is 70 degrees, The distortion rate is within 1% from approximately 0 degrees (the center of the lens) to 10 degrees, and 20 degrees is within 1%. The distortion rate is greater than 4% at the 30 degree point and greater than 10% at the 20 degree point. As the curvature increases, the 35-degree point (i.e., the half-angle point of the lens) ) has a distortion rate of more than 13%. It can be seen that the closer to the center of the spotlight, the greater the distance between the spots. In surface lighting, the light intensity (radiant illuminance or radiation intensity) gradually weakens as it approaches the center of the lighting. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the surface light is at a distance of 400 mm from the center. has an incoherent irradiance of 1.01E-003 [W / cm2] However, after 400 mm, it is 1.14E-003 to 1.26E-003 W / c It can be seen that the spherical In the standard system, the surface illumination is 1.42E+003[W / sr] radians from the center to 24 degrees. It has a tint intensity of 1.62E+003[W / sr ] or higher.

[0143] As discussed above, in the case of spot lighting, the spot density increases around the periphery of the pattern. In the case of area lighting, the light intensity at the periphery of the pattern increases. That is, the lens unit 120 to which the distortion aberration according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied is When used, the light pattern of the optical signal output from the light emitting unit 100 moves away from the center of the pattern. In this way, the light intensity at the periphery of the pattern can be increased. This allows the light receiving section 200 to compensate for the light loss in the peripheral area of ​​the pattern. The light receiving section 200 compensates for the optical loss in the peripheral area of ​​the pattern, This has the advantage of increasing reliability and accuracy.

[0144] Hereinafter, a driving example of the light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be explained in detail with reference to FIGS. 16 to 19. I decided to do so.

[0145] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the light source unit 110 has a plurality of light emitting elements arranged according to a predetermined rule. The light source unit 110 can emit a part of the plurality of light emitting elements according to a certain rule. The light emitting element can be driven.

[0146] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the arrangement and connection structure of a plurality of light emitting devices according to an embodiment of the present invention. is.

[0147] In Figure 16, the circles represent light-emitting elements, the squares represent electrodes, and the lines represent conductors. vinegar.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 16, the light source unit 110 has a plurality of light emitting elements arranged according to a certain rule. For example, the light emitting elements may be arranged in a diamond check pattern. The plurality of light emitting elements may be arranged in a form in which each corner of the checkered pattern is located at the top, bottom, left, and right.

[0149] The plurality of light emitting elements may be arranged in a plurality of lines including the first to third lines. The first to third lines may be arranged repeatedly. Here, a line can mean an imaginary straight line extending vertically or horizontally.

[0150] In FIG. 16, the first vertical axis on the left side may be the first line. Next to the first line, there may be a second line. The second vertical axis on the left can be the second line, since only the first line can be placed. The second line is placed between the third lines, so the third vertical axis on the left is the third line. Since only the second line can be placed next to the third line, the fourth vertical axis on the left is the There can be two lines. The second line is placed between the first and third lines, so the left The fifth vertical axis of the line may be the first line. Multiple lines may be arranged in this manner. .

[0151] The light emitting elements arranged in one line may be connected to the same electrode. The light emitting elements arranged in one line may be electrically connected to each other. The light emitting elements arranged in the first line, which is the axis, may be arranged on the same electrode. The light emitting elements arranged on the first line, which is the vertical axis, are arranged on the first line, which is the first vertical axis. The light emitting element may be disposed on a different electrode from the light emitting element.

[0152] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of driving the light emitting element arrangement and connection structure of FIG. 16. is.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 17, the driving modes according to the embodiment of the present invention are first to third driving modes. It can include modes.

[0154] The first driving mode is a mode in which a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged in a first line, a second line, and a third line. It can mean the mode of driving the element. Thus, as shown in FIG. 17(a), All the light emitting elements can be turned on. In this case, the light pattern of the optical signal irradiated to the object is The pattern can appear as a spot density as shown in FIG. 17(d).

[0155] The second driving mode is for driving a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the first and third lines. Therefore, as shown in Figure 17(b), two consecutive In this case, only the light emitting elements arranged on one of the lines can be turned on. The light pattern of the optical signal irradiated on the object appears as a spot density as shown in FIG. 17(e). obtain.

[0156] The third driving mode means a mode in which a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in a first line are driven. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 17(c), one of four consecutive lines In this case, only the light emitting elements arranged in one line can be turned on. The light pattern of the optical signal may appear as a spot density as shown in FIG. 17(f).

[0157] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the arrangement and connection structure of a plurality of light emitting elements according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is a surface.

[0158] In Figure 18, the circles represent light-emitting elements, the squares represent electrodes, and the lines represent conductors. The arrangement structure of the light emitting devices shown in FIG. 18 may be the same as that described in FIG. 16. However, the connection structure of the light emitting elements may be different.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 18, adjacent light emitting elements among the plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the first line The optical elements may be respectively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode. For example, the odd-numbered optical elements in the first line may be connected to the odd-numbered optical elements in the second line. The even-numbered light emitting elements in the first row are connected to the first electrode, and the even-numbered light emitting elements in the first row are connected to the second electrode. It can be done.

[0160] The light emitting elements arranged in the second line may be connected to the third electrode.

[0161] Among the plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the third line, adjacent light emitting elements have a fourth electrode and For example, the odd-numbered light emitting elements in the third line may be connected to the fourth electrode and the fifth electrode, respectively. The even-numbered light emitting elements in the third line may be connected to the fifth electrode, and the even-numbered light emitting elements in the third line may be connected to the fifth electrode.

[0162] FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining an example of driving the light emitting element arrangement and connection structure of FIG. 18. is.

[0163] As shown in FIG. 19, the driving modes according to the embodiment of the present invention are the fourth to eighth driving modes. It can include modes.

[0164] The fourth driving mode means a mode in which a plurality of light emitting elements connected to the first to fifth electrodes are driven. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 19(a), all the light emitting elements are turned on. It can be turned on.

[0165] The fifth driving mode drives a plurality of light-emitting elements connected to the first, second, fourth and fifth electrodes. Therefore, as shown in Figure 19(b), two consecutive Only the light emitting elements arranged on one of the lines can be turned on.

[0166] The sixth driving mode is a mode for driving a plurality of light emitting elements connected to the first and second electrodes. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 19(c), the four consecutive lines Only the light emitting elements arranged on one of the lines can be turned on.

[0167] The seventh driving mode is a mode in which a plurality of light emitting elements connected to the first and fourth electrodes are driven. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 19(d), the two consecutive lines Among the light emitting elements arranged in one line, only the odd-numbered or even-numbered light emitting elements are turned on. In another embodiment, the seventh driving mode can be implemented by using multiple electrodes connected to the second and fifth electrodes. It can refer to a mode in which a number of light-emitting elements are driven.

[0168] The eighth driving mode may refer to a mode for driving a plurality of light emitting elements connected to the first electrode. Therefore, as shown in Figure 19(c), one of four consecutive lines Of the light emitting elements arranged in this line, only the odd-numbered or even-numbered light emitting elements are turned on. In another embodiment, the eighth driving mode may be any one of the second, fourth and fifth electrodes. It may refer to a mode in which a plurality of light emitting elements connected to one another are driven.

[0169] As described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 19, all the light emitting elements are turned on and off depending on the driving mode. The spot density can be changed by turning on some or all of the light emitting elements. In addition, the amount of light emitted from the surface lighting can be changed by adjusting the pattern. Therefore, the present invention increases the density (amount of light) in situations where high resolution is required, and By lowering the density (light intensity) in situations where it is required, the light can be adjusted adaptively according to the purpose and situation. This allows for efficient control of power consumption. do.

[0170] Hereinafter, a driving example of a light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21. I'll investigate further.

[0171] The light source unit 110 according to the embodiment of the present invention is a part of the entire area where a plurality of light emitting elements are arranged. The light source unit 110 can drive the light emitting elements arranged in the 3×3 area. , 4x3, 3x4, 4x4, 5x3, 3x5, 5x4, 4x5, 5x5 and divided into groups and driving light-emitting elements corresponding to one or more groups among the plurality of groups. can.

[0172] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of driving a partial region of a light source unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a surface.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 20, the light source unit 110 includes a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged within a predetermined distance from the center. The child can be driven.

[0174] FIG. 20(a) shows an example in which the light-emitting elements are driven over the entire area. 1 illustrates an example in which a plurality of light emitting elements arranged within a predetermined distance from the center of the entire area are driven. (c) of FIG. 20 shows a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged within a predetermined distance from the center of the entire area. The predetermined distance in (c) of FIG. 20 is the same as the predetermined distance in (b) of FIG. The distance may be closer than the distance.

[0175] FIG. 21 illustrates another example of driving a partial region of a light source unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. This is a drawing.

[0176] 21, the light source unit 110 can be divided into multiple sections. For example, in FIG. Thus, the whole area can be divided into nine regions. Each region can be a group or multiple groups. Groups may also be included.

[0177] The light source unit 110 includes a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in at least one of the plurality of sections. In FIG. 21, the light emitting elements arranged in one area are driven. Although shown as an example, light emitting elements arranged in two or more areas may be driven.

[0178] As described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the light source unit 11 0 can drive only the light emitting elements arranged in a certain area to output an optical signal locally. If the object to be photographed is small, the optical signal is adjusted according to the size of the object. The advantage of local output is that power consumption can be reduced.

[0179] The above description has been centered on the examples, but these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize the essential characteristics of this embodiment. It is understood that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiment can be modified and implemented. and the differences relating to such modifications and applications are defined in the appended claims. These and other related arts should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a light source unit including a light emitting element array and generating an optical signal; a lens portion disposed on the light source portion; and an adjustment unit that adjusts the lens unit so that the light pattern of the optical signal that has passed through the lens unit becomes surface illumination or spot illumination, The lens unit has a distortion that increases as the irradiance of the light pattern moves away from the center, and the distortion is preset for each field.

2. The adjustment unit The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the optical path of the optical signal is changed to adjust the optical pattern of the optical signal.

3. The adjustment unit The ToF camera according to claim 1 , further comprising a driving member, wherein the lens unit is moved through the driving member to change the distance between the light source unit and the lens unit.

4. When the rear focal point of the lens unit moves away from the light source unit, the light pattern of the optical signal becomes the surface illumination, The ToF camera according to claim 3 , wherein the light pattern of the optical signal becomes the spot illumination when the rear focal point of the lens unit approaches the light source unit.

5. The adjustment unit The ToF camera of claim 1 , comprising an optical element capable of changing a refractive index, wherein the refractive index is changed by a signal applied to the optical element.

6. The lens portion is 2. The ToF camera of claim 1, wherein an effective focal length (EFL) is greater than or equal to 0.4 mm and less than or equal to 2 mm.

7. The distortion aberration is The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens unit has a distortion rate of 5% to 20% at a half angle of a viewing angle.

8. The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein a magnitude of distortion increases for each field from a center of the lens unit to a half angle point of the viewing angle of the lens unit.

9. The distortion aberration is The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens unit has a distortion of 1% or less at a point that is 1 / 7 of the viewing angle of the lens unit.

10. The distortion aberration is The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens unit has a distortion magnitude of 4% to 10% at a point of 2 / 7 of the viewing angle.

11. The distortion aberration is The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens unit has a distortion rate of 10% to 20% at a point of 3 / 7 of a viewing angle.

12. The distortion aberration is The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens unit has a distortion of 13% to 20% at a half angle of a viewing angle.

13. The ToF camera of claim 1 , wherein the viewing angle of the lens unit is any one of 69 degrees to 80 degrees.

14. The light source unit is The ToF camera according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of light emitting elements is driven in accordance with a plurality of drive modes set corresponding to different spot densities.

Images