3D Image Sensor Delay Detection Module for Depth Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional time-of-flight (ToF) 3D image sensors face accuracy issues due to delay errors in pixel control signal transmission, leading to inaccurate depth information generation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a delay detection module that determines the time difference between pixel control signals reaching different nodes in the 3D image sensor, allowing for accurate compensation of depth information by the processing unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pixel control signals are transmitted to different photosensitive pixels through transmission lines, then the photosensitive pixels can be controlled to output depth information, but delay errors occur due to different transmission distances resulting in inaccurate depth information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a delay detection module that monitors the transmission delay of pixel control signals and feeds this delay information back to the processing unit. The processing unit then compensates for the delay error by adjusting the timing of depth information calculation, thereby eliminating the accuracy degradation caused by differential signal transmission delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameter of pixel control signals dynamically based on the detected delay. By adjusting the start time or phase of control signals for different photosensitive pixels according to their respective transmission distances, the system compensates for delay differences and maintains accurate depth information measurement.
2Measurement precision
If a delay detection module is added to measure signal transmission delay, then depth information accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay detection module is designed to serve multiple functions: it not only detects the transmission delay of pixel control signals but also provides timing calibration information for the entire photosensitive pixel array. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate calibration circuits and minimizes overall device complexity while achieving high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay detection module utilizes the existing pixel control signal transmission path and timing infrastructure of the sensor to perform delay measurement, rather than requiring completely separate dedicated measurement channels. This self-service approach leverages available system resources to reduce additional hardware complexity.
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 solution significantly improves the accuracy of depth information generation by compensating for delay errors, resulting in more precise 3D imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a photosensitive pixel array, including: a first photosensitive pixel; a second photosensitive pixel
Implementation Method 2
configured to generate a first depth information and a second depth information for a first location and a second location of a target object, respectively, by using a light-emitting module to emit light to the target object
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a three-dimensional (3D) image sensor and a related 3D image sensing module and hand-held device. The 3D image sensor includes, a photosensitive pixel array, including: a first photosensitive pixel; a second photosensitive pixel; and a pixel control signal transmission line, so that the first photosensitive pixel and the second photosensitive pixel respectively output a first photosensitive value and a second photosensitive value according to a pixel control signal; wherein the pixel control signal reaches a first node at a first time point and reaches a second node at a second time point; a delay detection module, including: a first delay detection circuit, for determining a time difference between the first time point and the second time point; and a processing unit, for generating the first depth information and the second depth information based on the first photosensitive value, the second photosensitive value, and the time difference.