Distance Image Measuring Device With Reflection State Switching Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance image measuring devices using the Time of Flight (ToF) system face challenges in confirming the presence or absence of abnormalities, particularly when the entire field of view is blocked for error detection, which prevents accurate measurement of objects outside the device.
Innovation Solution
A distance image measuring device with a reflection state switching member that allows for both reflection and transmission states, enabling the detection of reference internal reflected light to determine normalcy and allowing the device to measure distances to objects outside by switching between these states, while reducing costs through a smaller design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the field of view is blocked for error detection, then abnormality detection capability is improved, but distance measurement to external objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection state switching member dynamically changes between reflection state and transmission state, allowing the system to adapt between abnormality detection mode and normal measurement mode. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by making the blocking function temporary and controllable rather than permanent.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs periodic abnormality detection by temporarily switching to reflection state at specific intervals, then returns to transmission state for normal operation. This periodic action allows abnormality detection without continuously blocking the field of view, maintaining both detection capability and measurement capability.
2Reliability
If a reflection state switching member is added, then abnormality detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection state switching member serves multiple functions: it acts as both a beam splitter for abnormality detection and a controllable reflector for normal operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection state switching member uses the existing projected light as both the measurement light and the reference light for abnormality detection. The system self-services by utilizing its own operational light rather than requiring a separate light source for detection, reducing overall system complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the reflection state switching member is fixed inside the device, then manufacturing precision is improved, but field of view blocking occurs
Solution Approach 1:
While the reflection state switching member is physically fixed for manufacturing precision, it dynamically controls light reflection through state switching. This allows the fixed component to achieve variable optical effects, maintaining position stability while preventing permanent field of view blocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical parameters (reflection vs. transmission state) of the fixed reflection state switching member rather than changing its physical position. This parameter change allows the fixed component to control light paths without requiring movement, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling field of view availability when needed.
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
Enables sequential confirmation of abnormality detection without blocking the field of view, ensuring accurate distance measurement to objects and reducing costs by allowing the device to function effectively and efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
measures a distance to an object based on a flight time, which is a time from when a light source projects a projected light to when a reflected light generated by reflection of the projected light from the object is received by an image sensor
Implementation Method 2
reflected light generated by reflection of the projected light from the object
Implementation Method 3
reflection state switching member that is configured to switch between a reflection state in which the projected light is reflected in a direction toward the image sensor and a transmission state in which the projected light is transmitted
Data Source
AI summary
A distance image measuring device includes: a light source; an image sensor receiving a reflected light generated by reflection of a projected light from an object; a housing accommodating the light source and the image sensor; a window provided in the housing and through which the projected light and the reflected light pass; a distance calculation section calculating a distance to the object; a reflection state switching member disposed on an optical path of the projected light; and an abnormality determination section determining whether there is an abnormality in a function of detecting the object.