3D Measurement System Separating Zero Order Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D image measurement systems suffer from the wastage of zero order light beam energy, which affects the quality of projection images due to its presence within the structural light beam pattern.
Innovation Solution
A 3D image measurement system comprising a first optical system that outputs a structural light beam and a zero order light beam at an angle, allowing the second optical system to utilize the zero order light beam for additional operations, such as MEMS scanning, thereby separating and utilizing the zero order light beam without affecting the projection image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a diffractive element is used in the light source to generate structural light for 3D measurement, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but a zero order light beam is generated that degrades projection image quality and wastes energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the zero order light beam from the projection optical path using a beam separating element positioned at the focal plane. The zero order light is spatially separated from the structural light patterns, allowing it to be removed from the projection path that forms the measurement image, thereby eliminating its harmful interference effect on image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously harmful zero order light beam into a useful resource by directing it to a separate detection optical system. This zero order light is now utilized for additional measurement functions such as time-of-flight (ToF) measurement or as a reference beam, transforming the energy waste into a beneficial contribution to the overall measurement capability
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the zero order light beam is blocked to improve projection image quality, then image quality is improved, but energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of blocking the zero order light beam which would waste energy, the patent redirects it through a beam separating element to a separate detection optical system where it is utilized for additional measurement functions. This converts the previously harmful or wasted energy into a useful resource for enhanced measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where the light source serves dual purposes: the structural light patterns are used for traditional 3D shape measurement, while the separated zero order light is simultaneously utilized for additional measurement functions such as ToF distance measurement or reference beam generation, maximizing the utility of the emitted light energy
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
This configuration enhances the quality of 3D image measurement by eliminating the impact of zero order light on the projection image and allows for the reuse of zero order light energy, improving the overall efficiency of the system.
Implementation Method 1
the light beam provided by the additional light source or laser projector will form a structural light beam and a zero order light beam after passing through the diffractive element
Data Source
AI summary
A three dimensional image measurement system including a first optical system and a second optical system is provided. The first optical system is adapted to output a structural light beam and a zero order light beam. There is an angle between the structural light beam and the zero order light beam. The first optical system performs an optical operation to project the structural light beam to a three dimensional object to obtain three dimensional information of the three dimensional object. The second optical system is adapted to receive the zero order light beam and perform another optical operation by using the zero order light beam. The first optical system includes a plurality of optical elements. The value of the angle between the structural light beam and the zero order light beam is determined according to position parameters of the optical elements.