Distance Measurement Using Patterned Light Ratio Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional distance measuring technologies face challenges in accurately measuring distances, particularly when objects lack texture or have high reflectance, leading to unreliable distance calculations.
Innovation Solution
A distance measuring apparatus that acquires images of an object irradiated with patterned and non-patterned light from different viewpoints, employing a spatial light modulator to project random dot patterns and perform correction processing to eliminate reflectance effects, allowing for precise distance calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional distance measuring technology is used, then distance can be measured in general conditions, but measurement precision deteriorates when objects lack texture or have high reflectance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the lighting parameter by using both patterned light and non-patterned light to illuminate the object. By capturing images under different lighting conditions and calculating their ratios, the system eliminates the influence of object reflectance properties, enabling reliable distance measurement for objects with varying surface characteristics including those without texture or with high reflectance.
2Measurement precision
If patterned light is used to improve distance measurement, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to additional light sources and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the light source unit multi-functional by enabling it to operate in two modes: projecting patterned light and projecting non-patterned light. This universal design allows a single light source unit to perform multiple functions (illumination for distance measurement and illumination for reflectance correction), avoiding the need for separate light sources and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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 accurate distance measurement even with objects having varying reflectance by eliminating reflectance effects through correction processing, resulting in high precision parallax calculations.
Implementation Method 1
employing a spatial light modulator to project random dot patterns
Implementation Method 2
acquires a first image at a first viewpoint where an object is irradiated with a first light including a pattern, a second image at a second viewpoint different from the first viewpoint where the object is irradiated with the first light
Data Source
AI summary
A distance measuring apparatus includes: an acquisition unit that acquires a first image at a first viewpoint where an object is irradiated with a first light including a pattern, a second image at a second viewpoint different from the first viewpoint where the object is irradiated with the first light, a third image at the first viewpoint where the object is irradiated with a second light not including a pattern, and a fourth image at the second viewpoint where the object is irradiated with the second light; and a control unit that acquires information corresponding to a distance, by employing a fifth image obtained based on a ratio the first image and the third image and a sixth image obtained based on a ratio of the second image and the fourth image.