Multi-Beam Illumination for 3D Depth Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical 3D mapping methods require multiple light sources positioned at different distances or complex setups, limiting flexibility and efficiency in generating 3D maps of objects.
Innovation Solution
The use of two or more beams of radiation with different characteristics, generated either by multiple sources or a single source, to illuminate an object, allowing for flexible design and deployment, and enabling the capture of images to analyze local intensity differences for 3D mapping without the need for multiple light sources at varying distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple light sources are positioned at different distances from the object to achieve 3D mapping, then depth information can be obtained, but the device complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination function is segmented into multiple beams with different divergence characteristics, where each beam provides a specific depth range information. This allows the system to obtain depth information without requiring multiple light sources at different distances, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the divergence parameter of the illumination beams to achieve depth mapping. By using beams with different divergence characteristics (e.g., one beam with low divergence and another with high divergence), the system can distinguish depth information through intensity variations in captured images, eliminating the need for complex multi-distance light source positioning.
2Measurement precision
If multiple light sources at different distances are used for 3D mapping, then accurate depth information is obtained, but the ease of manufacture and deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A single light source is designed to generate multiple beams with different divergence characteristics, making the light source multi-functional. This universal light source can provide both low-divergence and high-divergence beams, simplifying the manufacturing and deployment process while maintaining accurate 3D mapping capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of multiple light sources at different distances into a single light source that generates multiple beams with different divergence characteristics. This combination simplifies the overall system structure, making it easier to manufacture and deploy while achieving the same depth mapping accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If complex illumination setups are used to achieve 3D mapping, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the productivity and efficiency of the system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images under illumination from multiple beams simultaneously or in rapid sequence, maintaining continuous useful action. The image processing unit continuously analyzes intensity variations from different beams to generate depth maps, ensuring high productivity without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic beam characteristics where at least one beam's divergence can be adjusted or varied. This dynamic illumination approach allows the system to adapt to different scanning ranges and maintain high measurement precision across varying depths, thereby improving overall system efficiency and productivity.
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 allows for flexible and efficient 3D mapping by generating 3D maps of objects using a single image capture assembly, canceling ambiguities due to ambient light, and enabling the capture of 3D movement, such as gestures, with improved accuracy and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A light source projects onto the object at least two beams having different respective beam characteristics, including different respective divergence characteristics
Implementation Method 2
An imaging unit detects the light response of the illuminated region and generates image data
Data Source
AI summary
A method for mapping an object (28) includes illuminating the object with at least two beams (37, 38) of radiation having different beam characteristics. At least one image of the object is captured under illumination with each of the at least two beams. The at least one image is processed to detect local differences in an intensity of the illumination cast on the object by the at least two beams, and the local differences are analyzed in order to generate a three-dimensional (3D) map of the object.