3D Depth Estimation with Spatial Light Modulator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional depth estimation methods using optical focusing face interference issues when light from one object element illuminates multiple pixels of the light sensor, complicating the focus adjustment process and reducing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A depth estimation device employing a bit-mapped light sensor and a spatial light modulator with micro-lenses and bi-stable pixels, where each pixel can be controlled to pass or block light, allowing each object element to be focused without interference from others, and grouping pixels to reduce scanning time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional light sensors are used without spatial modulation, then the device structure is simpler, but light from multiple object elements interferes with each other during focus adjustment, reducing depth estimation accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
A spatial light modulator is introduced as an intermediary component between the objective lens and the light sensor. This modulator selectively controls which light paths reach the sensor by adjusting the focus position, enabling isolation of light from individual object elements and eliminating interference while maintaining reasonable device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The light sensor surface is divided into multiple pixels, and the spatial light modulator divides the light paths corresponding to different object elements. By controlling each pixel to detect light from specific focus positions, the system segments the overlapping light fields and enables precise depth estimation for each object element
2Productivity
If all pixels of the light sensor are scanned simultaneously, then the scanning process is faster, but interference between light from different object elements complicates the focus adjustment process
Solution Approach 1:
The spatial light modulator is adjusted periodically through different focus positions in sequential steps. At each focus position, specific pixels are activated to detect light from object elements at that depth, creating a periodic scanning pattern that eliminates interference while maintaining efficient scanning speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the focus position of the spatial light modulator and selectively activates different pixels based on the current focus position. This dynamic control enables the system to scan through depth ranges efficiently while preventing light interference from different object elements during the scanning process
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 solution enables precise depth estimation of multiple object elements in a 3D scene by minimizing interference and reducing the time required for scanning, improving the accuracy and efficiency of depth mapping.
Implementation Method 1
when the focusing is carried out on an element of the scene, the light flow from this element reaches a single pixel of the light sensor
Implementation Method 2
each pixel can be controlled to pass or block light
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Device comprising: - an optical system itself comprising a light sensor (2) with a plurality of pixels (21,22,23) and a lens (1) able to image the elements (E1,E2,E3) of the scene on one of the pixels of said light sensor, - means to adjust the focus of the optical system onto any one of the elements of said scene that are able to adjust said focus by fixing on the maximum of light streams coming from this element and captured by one of the pixels of said bit mapped light sensor, and - means suitable for deducing from the adjustment of said focus, the depth of said element, the optical system further comprising a telecentric relay imaging system (3) with microlenses (4) and a a spatial light modulator (5).