Integrated Distance Sensing for Low-Contrast Image Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance calculation methods in imaging devices suffer from errors in correlation evaluation due to subjects with low contrast or high noise, leading to inaccurate distance measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an imaging device with a sensor having two-dimensionally disposed pixel regions and an imaging surface phase difference system, combined with radar devices, to accurately calculate distances by evaluating parallax between image signals and correcting for errors using normalized cross-correlation techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If imaging surface phase difference system is used for distance calculation, then distance information can be acquired from image signals, but measurement precision deteriorates due to low contrast and noise causing erroneous correlation evaluation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple distance information acquisition methods (imaging surface phase difference system, object end position method, and object size method) into a single integrated distance calculation system. This merging allows the system to cross-validate results and maintain reliable distance measurements even when correlation evaluation fails due to low contrast or noise in the image signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary integration process that combines distance information from multiple independent sources. This intermediary layer filters out erroneous measurements by comparing results across different methods, thereby maintaining measurement precision even when individual methods fail due to poor image quality.
2Measurement precision
If multiple distance information acquisition units are integrated, then distance measurement accuracy improves through data integration, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional integration unit that can process multiple types of distance information (phase difference data, end position data, and size data) through a single unified algorithm framework. This universal approach allows the system to maintain high measurement precision while avoiding the need for separate complex processing circuits for each distance measurement method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the processing parameters dynamically based on the quality and availability of input data. When correlation evaluation is unreliable, the system automatically adjusts by relying more heavily on end position and size-based distance calculations, thereby maintaining accuracy without requiring additional hardware complexity.
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
Enhances distance measurement accuracy by correcting for errors in correlation evaluation, ensuring precise distance calculations even in challenging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor in which a plurality of pixel regions having a photoelectric conversion function are two-dimensionally disposed and is able to acquire an image signal
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic instrument includes a first distance information acquisition unit acquiring first distance information corresponding to an object included in an image signal, at least one of a second distance information acquisition unit acquiring second distance information on the basis of at least one of information of an end position of the object included in the image signal and a third distance information acquisition unit configured to acquire third distance information based on information of a size of the object included in the image signal, and a distance information integration unit generating integrated distance information by combining and integrating at least two of the first distance information, the second distance information, and the third distance information.