3D Camera Grating Switching for Short- and Long-Range Depth Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D cameras face challenges in balancing image clarity and shooting distance due to limitations imposed by light attenuation, making it difficult to achieve high-resolution images over varying distances.
Innovation Solution
A 3D camera system incorporating a grating that adjusts its diffraction or transmission properties based on electrical signals to optimize light intensity and density for different distances, using a combination of time-of-flight and structured light sensors to generate high-resolution 3D images at both short and long ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If light intensity is increased to improve image clarity at long distances, then shooting distance is extended, but light attenuation becomes more severe causing reduced image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a variable grating that can dynamically change its diffraction characteristics based on the distance to the target object. The grating transitions between different diffraction orders (first and second diffraction light beams) depending on the detected distance, allowing the system to adapt light distribution to match the actual imaging requirements at different ranges, thereby resolving the contradiction between light intensity and image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the grating by switching between different diffraction modes. By controlling the grating to emit either first diffraction light beams or second diffraction light beams, the system adjusts the light distribution parameters to optimize both imaging clarity and shooting distance, preventing light attenuation from degrading image quality
2Device complexity
If a fixed grating is used to simplify device structure, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different distances is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a variable grating that can dynamically switch between different diffraction states (first and second diffraction light beams) based on distance detection. This dynamic capability allows a single grating structure to adapt to multiple distance ranges, providing versatility without requiring multiple separate gratings or complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The variable grating serves multiple functions by being capable of generating both first diffraction light beams for close-range imaging and second diffraction light beams for long-range imaging. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single grating component, eliminating the need for separate optical systems for different distances and thus maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing adaptability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves high-resolution 3D imaging at both medium-short and long distances by dynamically adjusting light properties, ensuring clear images are captured regardless of the object's proximity to the camera.
Implementation Method 1
the grating diffracts the first light to generate a third diffracted light
Implementation Method 2
the grating transmits the first light to generate a second transmitted light
Implementation Method 3
a time-of-flight sensor to receive and detect the reflected light
Implementation Method 4
a structured light sensor to receive and detect the reflected light
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D camera includes a light emission device for emitting a first light, a grating on an optical path of the first light, a time-of-flight sensor, a structured light sensor, and a controlling circuit. The grating is used to transmit the first light to generate a second transmitted light or diffract the first light to generate a third diffracted light. The time-of-flight sensor is used to receive and detect a fourth light reflected by an object illuminated by the second transmitted light. The structured light sensor is used to receive and detect a fifth light reflected by the object illuminated by the third diffracted light. The controlling circuit is used to control the grating to transmit or diffract the first light and generate a 3D image of the object by obtaining a travel time of the fourth light and/or a depth information of the fifth light.