3D Camera Depth Measurement Using Log Voltage and Periodic Pulses

The patent applies periodic action by modulating the light source at a specific frequency and using synchronous detection to measure depth. The camera emits periodic light pulses and detects the phase shift or time delay of reflected light, enabling depth measurement while filtering out ambient light through frequency-based discrimination. This periodic modulation approach allows the system to distinguish between active illumination and ambient light, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy.

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a modulated carrier signal as a mediator between the light source and the detection process. The depth information is encoded in the phase or timing of the modulated light signal, which acts as an intermediary carrier that can be distinguished from ambient light through synchronous demodulation. This intermediary modulation scheme enables accurate depth measurement in the presence of ambient light interference.

The patent employs periodic action by using pulsed or modulated light emission instead of continuous high-intensity illumination. The light source emits periodic pulses at optimized intensity levels, and the system detects depth during these periodic intervals. This approach reduces average energy consumption while maintaining sufficient signal strength for detection, as the system only requires high intensity during brief pulse intervals rather than continuous operation.

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the light intensity and pulse duration parameters to optimize the balance between signal detection capability and energy consumption. The system modifies emission parameters such as pulse width, repetition frequency, and peak intensity based on measurement requirements, enabling high detection performance when needed while reducing energy consumption during normal operation through parameter optimization.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the depth measurement range into multiple segments or zones, each associated with different threshold values. Instead of using a single threshold, the system implements multiple comparison thresholds that correspond to different depth intervals. This segmented approach allows the camera to accurately measure depths across a wider range by selecting appropriate thresholds for different measurement zones, effectively extending the measurable depth range while maintaining relatively simple circuit architecture through modular threshold implementation.

The patent employs dynamics by making the threshold values adaptive or selectable based on measurement conditions rather than fixed. The system can dynamically adjust which threshold is active based on the detected signal strength, expected depth range, or measurement mode. This dynamic threshold selection enables the camera to adapt to different measurement scenarios and extend its effective depth range without requiring a completely complex circuit, as the thresholds are selected or adjusted based on real-time conditions.