Distance-Measuring Imaging Exposure Timing for Multipath Accuracy

The patent divides the exposure process into multiple segments (first exposure, second exposure, third exposure) with different timing relative to light emission. Each exposure captures light reflected at different times, allowing separation of direct reflections from indirect multipath reflections. This segmentation enables accurate distance measurement by identifying which exposure contains the direct reflection signal.

The patent employs periodic exposure cycles where the imager alternates between different exposure timing modes. The exposure control signal generates pulses at specific intervals relative to light emission, creating a periodic measurement pattern that systematically captures both direct and indirect reflections at different phases of the light travel cycle.

The patent implements dynamic exposure timing where the exposure control signal adapts its pulse timing and duration based on the specific measurement requirements. The system dynamically adjusts when exposures occur relative to light emission, allowing flexible capture of direct and indirect reflections without requiring fixed rigid timing structures.

The system uses the naturally occurring time delays of light reflections themselves to perform the separation function. By timing exposures to coincide with when direct and indirect reflections arrive at the imager, the system lets the physics of light propagation do the work of separation, rather than requiring complex external intervention to distinguish between direct and indirect paths.