Distance Measurement Device Using Phase Information for Defocus Error Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance measurement devices using imaging techniques face significant errors due to blurred shapes caused by defocus, which affects the accuracy of distance information extraction.
Innovation Solution
A distance measurement device comprising an image sensor, a modulator, a complex information generating unit, an evaluation index array generating unit, and a distance information generating unit, which uses a pattern with a concentric pattern design to modulate light intensity and generate accurate distance information through complex number processing and evaluation index arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contrast-based distance measurement is used, then distance information can be extracted, but measurement precision deteriorates due to blurred shapes from defocus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from intensity contrast to phase information. By using phase information from complex numbers derived from multiple imaging results, the system can determine distance without being affected by defocus blur, which primarily affects intensity distribution rather than phase relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces complex numbers as an intermediary representation. The complex information generating unit creates complex numbers where the real part corresponds to the imaging result and the imaginary part corresponds to its derivative. This intermediary form allows extraction of phase information that is insensitive to defocus effects.
2Measurement precision
If conventional imaging device configuration is used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision deteriorates due to defocus errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging device into distinct functional units: an image sensor for capturing images, a complex information generating unit for creating complex numbers from multiple images, an evaluation index array generating unit for calculating distance metrics, and a distance information generating unit for outputting results. This modular segmentation allows each unit to perform its specific function with high precision while maintaining overall system manageability.
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 precise distance information generation by reducing errors associated with defocus, improving the accuracy of distance measurements in imaging devices.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor configured to convert light to electrical signals to generate a sensor image
Implementation Method 2
a modulator configured to modulate the intensity of light projected on the image sensor, based on a pattern for shooting
Implementation Method 3
an complex information generating unit configured to generate, from the sensor image, complex information including a complex number
Implementation Method 4
an evaluation index array generating unit configured to generate an evaluation index array, based on phase information of the complex information
Data Source
AI summary
A distance measurement device is characterized in that the device includes: an image sensor configured to convert light to electrical signals to generate a sensor image; a modulator configured to modulate the intensity of light projected on the image sensor, based on a pattern for shooting; a complex information generating unit configured to generate, from the sensor image, complex information including a complex number; an evaluation index array generating unit configured to generate an evaluation index array, based on phase information of the complex information; and a distance information generating unit configured to generate distance information, based on the evaluation index array.