Distance Measuring Apparatus Optical Abnormality Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Distance measuring apparatuses, such as TOF cameras, face reduced accuracy and potential loss of measurement capability due to optical system abnormalities, including weak reflected light from low reflectivity objects, dirt on lenses or diffusion plates, and other optical issues, which affect the signal-to-noise ratio and lead to misdetection or undetectability of reflected light.
Innovation Solution
A distance measuring apparatus with an optical system abnormality detection section that compares the relationship between distance measurement values and light intensity with reference values to detect abnormalities, using a phase difference method and light intensity analysis to determine if the optical system is functioning correctly, and issuing warnings for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the distance measuring apparatus measures distance by receiving reflected light from objects, then distance measurement capability is achieved, but measurement accuracy is reduced when reflected light becomes weak due to optical system abnormalities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of optical system abnormalities by analyzing the relationship between light intensity and distance measurement values before conducting actual distance measurements. This preliminary action identifies issues such as dirt on lenses or diffusion plates, allowing the system to maintain measurement accuracy by detecting and accounting for optical system degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the light intensity detection section continuously monitors reflected light intensity and compares it with distance measurement values. When abnormalities are detected (such as unexpected changes in the light intensity-distance relationship), the system can trigger maintenance warnings or adjust measurement parameters to compensate for optical system degradation.
2Measurement precision
If the apparatus continuously monitors light intensity to detect optical abnormalities, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing light receiving section perform dual functions: it serves both as the primary distance measurement sensor and as an optical system abnormality detector. By analyzing the relationship between light intensity and distance measurement values from the same hardware, the system avoids adding separate detection components, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own operational data (light intensity and distance measurement values) to self-diagnose optical system abnormalities. Rather than requiring external monitoring equipment, the distance measuring apparatus performs self-checks by analyzing inconsistencies in its measurement data, enabling autonomous detection of issues like lens contamination or diffusion plate degradation.
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 stable and accurate distance measurement by detecting optical system abnormalities, allowing for timely cleaning and component replacement, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy and capability.
Implementation Method 1
TOF cameras irradiate a target measurement space with distance measurement light which is intensity-modulated over predetermined cycles, and commonly use a phase difference method in which a phase difference between the irradiated measurement light and the light reflected by the object in the target measurement space is detected
Implementation Method 2
distance measurement light which is intensity-modulated over predetermined cycles
Data Source
AI summary
A distance measuring apparatus includes an optical system abnormality detection section for detecting abnormalities of an optical system of the distance measuring apparatus by comparing a relationship between a measured distance value d and a light intensity Ls with a reference value Kρ, Kρ1, KLs0d0, or KAb0.