Image Sensor Timing for Distance Light Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Light used for distance measurement, although not visible to the naked eye, affects image acquisition, especially in low-luminance environments, leading to unintended image acquisition issues.
Innovation Solution
The image acquisition device distinguishes the time points for frame acquisition and distance measurement, using different frame rates, shutter speeds, and aperture/gain settings to minimize the influence of distance measurement light on the image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light is used for distance measurement, then distance measurement capability is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to unwanted light influence on the image sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light detection process into separate temporal segments: image acquisition frames are captured at specific time points, while distance measurement light detection occurs in the intervals between frames. This temporal segmentation allows the image sensor to alternately perform image capture and distance measurement without mutual interference, resolving the contradiction between distance measurement capability and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic alternation between image acquisition mode and distance measurement mode. The image sensor periodically switches between capturing image frames and detecting distance measurement light, creating a rhythmic operational pattern that ensures both functions can operate effectively without degrading each other's performance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If infrared filter is used to block distance measurement light, then image quality is improved, but distance measurement capability deteriorates in low-luminance environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of the infrared filter rather than a static fixed state. The filter is selectively applied only during distance measurement intervals and removed during image acquisition intervals. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize for distance measurement when needed and for image quality when capturing images, eliminating the need to compromise either function permanently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the infrared filter in advance for selective deployment. Before distance measurement occurs, the infrared filter is positioned to block measurement light from reaching the sensor. Before image acquisition, the filter is removed or repositioned to allow full light transmission. This preliminary preparation ensures both functions can operate at optimal performance without interference.
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
Minimizes the impact of distance measurement light on images while ensuring accurate distance measurement and image quality, particularly in low-luminance conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the wavelength of the light belongs within the range of light wavelengths that may be accepted by image sensors such as image acquisition devices
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a time point at which at least one frame constituting an image is acquired and a time point at which a distance to a shooting region is measured are distinguished may acquire a first frame, a second frame, and a third frame in succession, generate an image using the first frame, the second frame optionally used, and the third frame, and measure a distance to a shooting region in at least a portion of a section between a first time point at which acquisition of the first frame is completed and a fourth time point at which acquisition of the third frame begins.