Adaptive ToF Sensor Switching for Distance Measurement Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capturing apparatuses face challenges in selecting the optimal method for measuring distance to a target object based on varying environmental conditions, leading to suboptimal performance in different lighting scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The image capturing apparatus incorporates a first and second Time of Flight (ToF) sensor, each using different methods to calculate distance (time difference and phase difference), along with a controller that selects the optimal ToF method based on pixel data and background light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single ToF sensing method is used, then the device structure is simple, but the distance measurement accuracy deteriorates under varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ToF sensing function into two separate sensing methods (first and second ToF sensors with different measurement approaches) within the same apparatus. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for specific environmental conditions, improving overall measurement accuracy without requiring a completely complex external system
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically switches between the first and second ToF sensing methods based on detected environmental conditions (such as ambient light levels). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high measurement accuracy across varying conditions while keeping the device structure relatively simple by using a unified switching mechanism
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ToF sensing methods are implemented, then distance measurement accuracy under varying conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal ToF sensing system that can perform multiple sensing methods (first and second ToF methods) within a single integrated apparatus. The controller universally manages both sensing methods and automatically selects the appropriate one based on environmental conditions, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate standalone devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of environmental conditions (such as ambient light levels) before selecting the appropriate ToF sensing method. This preliminary action allows the controller to pre-determine the optimal sensing approach, enabling smooth adaptation to different lighting conditions without adding complex real-time decision-making mechanisms
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 the apparatus to adaptively select the most suitable ToF method for the current environment, enhancing distance measurement accuracy and effectiveness across different lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an image capturing apparatus may include a first time of flight (ToF) sensor configured to include first photosensing pixels to detect a modulated light signal and configured to process pixel signals from the first photosensing pixels to calculate a distance to a target object using a time difference between a reference pulse time at which the modulated light signal is irradiated to the target object and a pulse sensing time at which a reflected modulated light signal, reflected from the target object and incident thereon, is sensed by the first photosensing pixels
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus may include a first time of flight (ToF) sensor configured to calculate a distance to a target object using the time difference between a reference pulse time at which a modulated light signal is irradiated and a pulse sensing time at which a reflected modulated light signal, reflected from the target object and incident thereon, is sensed, a second ToF sensor configured to calculate the distance to the target object using a phase difference between the modulated light signal and the reflected modulated light signal, and a controller configured to enable any one of the first and second ToF sensors, based on first pixel data which the first ToF sensor generates to sense the reflected modulated light signal.