Crossed Line VCSEL Projector for Compact Depth Camera Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional structured light based depth sensing systems are too large and heavy, making them unsuitable for applications requiring a lightweight and compact form factor, such as headsets with a small form factor similar to eyeglasses.
Innovation Solution
An addressable crossed line projector with a VCSEL array and non-circular emission areas is used, positioned on a substrate according to a distribution such as a grid or quasi-random pattern, to achieve a compact form factor while maintaining effective depth sensing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional structured light based depth sensing systems are used, then depth sensing capability is achieved, but the system becomes overly large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple depth sensing functions (structured light projection and imaging) into a single integrated depth camera assembly. The VCSEL array and imaging sensor are mounted on the same substrate, eliminating the need for separate projector and camera units, thereby reducing overall system weight and size while maintaining depth sensing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional bulky structured light systems to a planar integrated architecture where emitters and sensors are arranged on a two-dimensional substrate. This dimensional reorganization enables compact form factor suitable for wearable devices while preserving the functional capabilities of traditional depth sensing systems
2Measurement precision
If conventional structured light based depth sensing systems are used, then depth sensing capability is achieved, but the system form factor becomes too large for small headsets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the structured light projector and imaging camera into a single compact assembly mounted on a common substrate. This merging of components eliminates the spatial separation required in conventional systems, dramatically reducing the area occupied by the depth sensing system and enabling integration into small form factor headsets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a thin substrate to mount both the VCSEL emitter array and the imaging sensor array in close proximity. This thin-film architecture enables the depth sensing system to occupy minimal space while maintaining functional performance, making it suitable for integration into compact wearable devices
3Measurement precision
If VCSEL array with non-circular emission areas is used, then spatial resolution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different emission geometries (non-circular emission areas) to different regions of the VCSEL array based on local requirements for spatial resolution and distortion mitigation. This localized optimization approach improves measurement precision in critical areas while avoiding unnecessary complexity in regions where simpler emitter designs would suffice
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 enables a compact and power-efficient depth sensing system suitable for artificial reality applications, providing high spatial resolution and mitigating distortion, thus addressing the size and weight limitations of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
The projector includes an array of emitters positioned on a substrate according to a distribution. Each emitter in the array of emitters has a non-circular emission area. Operation of at least a portion of the array of emitters is controlled based in part on emission instructions to emit light.
Data Source
AI summary
A projector for illuminating a target area is presented. The projector includes an array of emitters positioned on a substrate according to a distribution. Each emitter in the array of emitters has a non-circular emission area. Operation of at least a portion of the array of emitters is controlled based in part on emission instructions to emit light. The light from the projector is configured to illuminate the target area. The projector can be part of a depth camera assembly for depth sensing of a local area, or part of an eye tracker for determining a gaze direction for an eye.