Camera and ToF Sensor Switching for Distance-Based Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face limitations in measuring distances beyond a certain threshold using Time of Flight (ToF) sensors, leading to power consumption and accuracy issues, especially when devices are not power efficient, and user satisfaction is degraded.
Innovation Solution
A first sensor is used to acquire an image and a second sensor is used to generate depth data, and a second sensor is used to stop and resume operations based on distance thresholds, optimizing power usage and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ToF sensor is used to measure distance, then depth information can be obtained, but power consumption increases and accuracy is limited beyond predetermined distance
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between ToF sensor and first sensor based on real-time distance conditions. When the target is within the effective measurement range, ToF sensor is activated for accurate depth acquisition. When the target exceeds the predetermined distance, the system transitions to using only the first sensor, thereby adapting the sensing strategy to current operational conditions and reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the sensing system by adjusting which sensor is active based on distance thresholds. The processor monitors distance measurements and modifies the operational state of the ToF sensor (on/off) accordingly, effectively changing the system's energy consumption profile while maintaining measurement capability within acceptable ranges.
2Reliability
If ToF sensor operates continuously to ensure distance measurement availability, then depth information is always accessible, but power consumption increases and user satisfaction degrades
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the ToF sensor operates periodically or intermittently based on whether the target is within the effective measurement range. The processor checks distance conditions and activates the ToF sensor only when needed, creating a periodic operation pattern that maintains reliability for nearby targets while significantly reducing overall power consumption.
3Area of stationary object
If ToF sensor is used beyond predetermined distance, then measurement coverage is extended, but measurement accuracy deteriorates and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its sensing strategy based on target distance. When the target moves beyond the predetermined distance where ToF accuracy degrades, the system automatically switches to relying on the first sensor, which maintains acceptable performance at longer ranges. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the system always uses the most appropriate sensor for the current measurement scenario.
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 electronic device effectively manages distance measurement by stopping ToF operations when beyond a threshold, reducing power consumption and enhancing accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
An electronic device may include a time of flight (ToF) module to acquire distance information on a target object
Data Source
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AI summary
Various embodiments of the present document relate to an electronic device for providing a service using depth information, and to an operating method thereof. The electronic device comprises: a first sensor which acquires an image including an object; a second sensor which generates depth data on the object; at least one processor operatively connected to the first sensor and the second sensor; and at least one memory operatively connected to the processor, wherein the memory may store instructions configured to: cause the processor to calculate a first distance between the object and the electronic device on the basis of the depth data generated by means of the second sensor while the image is acquired by means of the first sensor; stop the operation of the second sensor if the calculated first distance is greater than a preset distance; calculate a second distance between the object and the electronic device by means of the first sensor while the operation of the second sensor is stopped; and restart the operation of the second sensor if the calculated second distance is within the preset distance.