Active Sensor Light Output Control for Depth Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices with active sensors for depth mapping face high power consumption due to continuous infrared light output, which is not efficient for devices with limited power resources like smartphones.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a camera, sensor module, and processor that determines the movement of the device or objects to adjust the output period of light, minimizing power consumption while maintaining high accuracy in depth map generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the active sensor continuously outputs infrared light to generate depth maps, then the depth information accuracy is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The active sensor outputs infrared light periodically rather than continuously. The control unit adjusts the output period based on movement detection - when movement is detected, the light output period is shortened to maintain depth map accuracy, and when no movement is detected, the period is extended to reduce power consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the light output period is extended to reduce power consumption, then the power efficiency is improved, but the depth map accuracy deteriorates due to missed movement detection
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a feedback mechanism where the camera continuously monitors for movement in the imaging field. When movement is detected, this feedback signal triggers the control unit to shorten the infrared light output period, ensuring depth maps are captured at appropriate intervals to maintain accuracy while optimizing power consumption based on actual scene dynamics.
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
Enables the generation of accurate depth maps with reduced power consumption by optimizing light output based on movement, thereby extending battery life in mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
determining depth information of the images based on reflected light corresponding to the outputted light received by the camera
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an electronic device and a method of controlling the same. An electronic device includes: a camera; a sensor module; and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to determine at least one of a movement of the electronic device and a movement of an object in images acquired by the camera, determine, based on the movement of the electronic device or the movement of the object, an output period for light outputted by the sensor module, and determine depth information of the images based on reflected light corresponding to the outputted light received by the camera.