Light-Emitting Module for 3D Camera Spot Density

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D cameras using direct Time of Flight (dToF) imaging technology are limited in their ability to provide clear 3D images beyond a certain distance due to sparse distribution of detection light spots, resulting in poor resolution, as the density of detection light points cannot be increased due to heating and power supply constraints in the optical emission array.

Innovation Solution

A light-emitting module comprising a light source module with multiple arrays of lasers, a collimating lens module, and a deflecting diffraction module that increases the density of detection light spots by collimating and deflecting detection light to form a denser array of spots, allowing for more accurate collection of parameters within various distance ranges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the distribution density of emission units in the optical emission array is increased to improve detection light spot density, then the resolution and image quality improve, but the heating and power supply constraints prevent further increase in density

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection light spot densityVSAvoidheating constraint
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the light emission from a two-dimensional array pattern into a three-dimensional volumetric distribution by launching light rays along multiple directions (first direction along x-axis, second direction along y-axis, third direction along z-axis). This dimensional transformation allows the same emission units to cover a larger spatial volume, effectively increasing detection light spot density without adding more emission units or increasing their density in the array plane, thereby avoiding heating and power supply constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of stationary object

If the distance range for 3D imaging is extended beyond current limits, then the application scope improves, but the detection light spot density becomes too sparse to maintain image quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging distance rangeVSAvoiddetection light spot density
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

By introducing a third spatial dimension (z-axis) for light propagation direction, the patent enables detection light spots to be distributed throughout a volumetric space rather than confined to a two-dimensional plane. This volumetric distribution maintains sufficient light spot density even at extended distances, allowing 3D imaging beyond current distance limits while preserving image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the detection space into multiple directional zones by launching light rays along different axes (x, y, z directions). This segmentation allows the system to cover a larger overall distance range by dividing the imaging space into multiple directional sectors, each with adequate light spot density, thereby extending the total effective imaging distance while maintaining resolution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 enhances the resolution and accuracy of 3D image collection by increasing the distribution density of detection light spots, enabling clearer 3D image capture over a wider range without the limitations of existing technologies.

Implementation Method 1

a deflecting diffraction module on a side of the collimating lens module facing away from the light source module. The deflecting diffraction module is used to deflect different groups of the collimated detection light, and superimpose to form an array of detection light spots

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

measure the time interval between reflected and emitted detection light to obtain the flight time of the light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20240302500A1Light-emitting module, camera module and electronic device
Publication Date: 2024.09.12 TRIPLE WIN TECH (SHENZHEN) CO LTD
  • US20240302500A1 patent drawing
  • US20240302500A1 patent drawing
  • US20240302500A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A light-emitting module includes a light source module, a collimating lens module and a deflecting diffraction module. The light source module includes at least two light source arrays. Each light source arrays is configured to emit beams of detection light. The collimating lens module is on an output side of the light source module and includes a plurality of collimating lenses. The deflecting diffraction module is on a side of the collimating lens module facing away the light source module. The deflecting diffraction module is configured to superimpose groups of the detection light.