Multi-Projector Dot Pattern Aggregation for Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-dimensional imaging systems face challenges in achieving high resolution for left/right correspondence problems, particularly in scenarios with no texture, due to limitations in dot density and duty cycle.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple pseudo-random dot projectors, each with a wavefront modulating element, sequentially projecting images to increase dot density and resolution by aggregating temporal sequences of images, thereby enhancing the ability to form high-resolution depth images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single pseudo-random dot projector is used, then the system structure is simple, but the dot density and resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single high-density projection system into multiple lower-density projectors that operate sequentially. Each projector projects a subset of the total dot pattern, and by combining results from N projectors, the system achieves equivalent dot density to a single high-capacity projector while reducing individual device complexity and enabling modular deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic sequential activation of multiple projectors, where each projector is activated in turn according to a time schedule. This temporal multiplexing allows the system to achieve high dot density through aggregation of temporal sequences, converting a spatial density problem into a temporal sequencing solution.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple projectors are used sequentially, then the dot density increases by a factor of N, but the duty cycle decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system accepts reduced duty cycle as a trade-off for achieving higher resolution through N sequential projections. The periodic activation of multiple projectors creates a temporal sequence of images that, when aggregated, produce high-resolution depth maps. This approach prioritizes measurement precision over continuous operation duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters from continuous single-projector operation to discrete sequential multi-projector operation. By adjusting the number of projectors N and their activation schedule, the system optimizes the balance between duty cycle and resolution based on specific application requirements.
3Measurement precision
If more dots are projected to improve L/R correspondence, then the correspondence accuracy improves, but the complexity of the projection system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dot projection task across multiple projectors, where each projector handles a portion of the total dot pattern. This segmentation enables accurate L/R correspondence by ensuring sufficient dot density in the aggregated result, while keeping individual projector complexity manageable through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single spatial dimension (one projector) to multiple temporal dimensions (N sequential projections). By adding the time dimension to the projection process, the system achieves higher correspondence accuracy without increasing the spatial complexity of individual projection devices.
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
This approach significantly increases dot density by a factor of N when using N projectors, effectively addressing the resolution limitations and improving the ability to solve left/right correspondence problems in three-dimensional imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a wavefront modulating element (WME) located along an optical axis in a path traversed by radiation produced by an illumination source, the WME features configured to form an image of a plurality of dots
Implementation Method 2
The respective plurality of dots formed by features included in a wavefront modulating element (WME)
Data Source
AI summary
A system for projecting dots onto a three-dimensional image is configured to activate multiple pseudo-random dot projectors sequentially. Each pseudo-random dot projector includes an illumination source and a wavefront modulating element (WME) located along an optical axis in a path traversed by radiation produced by the illumination source. The system is configured to form images of dots in the projection plane along the optical axis. The system may also include controlling circuitry configured to perform a sequential projection operation on the plurality of pseudo-random dot projection systems to produce a temporal sequence of images and aggregate and process the temporal sequence of images to produce a high-resolution depth image of the three-dimensional surface.