Adaptive Optical Sensing Power Control for Long-Range Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensing systems face challenges in maximizing the distance range of objects while maintaining low power consumption, and they need to adapt to varying light conditions and distances, especially in environments with different light intensities, such as daylight and darkness, without increasing power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a controller that adjusts the output optical power of the light source between two predetermined values, optimizing power usage and maintaining spatial integrity by varying power levels based on object proximity and reflectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the distance range of the optical sensing system is maximized, then objects further from the sensor can be detected, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the output optical power of the light source based on the detected distance to objects. When objects are detected at farther distances, the system increases the optical power to maintain detection capability. When objects are closer, the system reduces the optical power, thereby optimizing power consumption while maintaining the ability to detect objects across a wide distance range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters of the light source (output optical power) based on the scene requirements. By varying the optical power parameter according to detected object distances and environmental light conditions, the system achieves both extended distance range and optimized power consumption without requiring a permanent high-power configuration.
2Length of stationary object
If the output optical power of the light source is increased to detect farther objects, then the distance range is extended, but unwanted signals and artefacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the light source output power based on real-time detection of object distances. By using feedback from the optical sensor to control the light source power, the system ensures that high power is only used when and where needed for distant object detection, while using lower power for close objects, thereby minimizing unwanted signals and artefacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control where the optical sensor detects reflected light from objects and this information is fed back to control the light source power. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust the illumination level to match the detection requirements, preventing excessive power that would generate harmful signals and artefacts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light source operates at high power continuously, then objects at all distances can be detected, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static high-power operation to dynamic power adjustment. The light source power is continuously adapted based on detected object distances and environmental conditions, allowing the system to maintain versatility in detecting objects at all distances while significantly reducing average power consumption through intelligent power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the light source operating parameters (power level) based on the detection requirements. By varying the optical power parameter according to scene analysis, the system achieves both broad detection capability across distance ranges and optimized power consumption, avoiding the need for continuous high-power operation.
4Measurement precision
If the system operates in low light environments, then detection sensitivity must be increased, but this requires higher power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the light source power based on environmental light conditions and detected object distances. In low light environments, the system increases power when needed for distant object detection while using lower power for close objects, maintaining detection sensitivity without requiring continuous high-power operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical power parameter based on environmental conditions and scene requirements. By adapting the illumination level to match the detection needs in different lighting environments, the system achieves high detection sensitivity in low light conditions while optimizing overall power consumption through intelligent parameter adjustment.
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 approach allows for efficient power usage, effective detection of objects at varying distances, and reduces unwanted signals and/or artefacts, enabling fast and accurate optical sensing.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source, scanning means adapted to scan a light beam from said light source on said scene along a trajectory
Implementation Method 2
optical sensor, optics able to produce an image of a scene on said optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical sensing system (1) for efficient optical sensing. The system (1) comprises at least one optical sensor (2), and optics (3) able to produce an image of a scene (4) on said optical sensor (2). The system (2) further comprises at least one light source (5), and scanning means (9) adapted to scan a light beam (33) of said light source (5) on said scene (4) along a trajectory (8). The system (1) further comprises a controller (12), wherein said controller (12) is adapted to vary the output optical power of said light source (5) between at least a first predetermined value (11) and a second predetermined value (10) higher than said first predetermined value.