Dynamic Range Management in Optical Detection Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical detection devices face challenges in managing dynamic range, leading to measurement saturation and increased energy consumption due to varying radiation profiles in imaging systems, particularly when exposed to strong background light, which affects the precision and efficiency of time-of-flight measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that dynamically manage the dynamic range by generating a detection signal, producing a histogram with adjustable classes, and comparing values to stop signal production when maximum values are reached, thereby preventing saturation and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single measurement time is used for all detectors in an imaging system, then the system structure is simple, but detectors exposed to strong background light saturate quickly while detectors in darker areas require longer measurement times to achieve sufficient signal levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the measurement time configurable and adaptable for each detector based on its local radiation profile. Instead of a fixed uniform measurement time across all detectors, the system dynamically adjusts the integration time for each detector to match its specific lighting conditions, preventing saturation in bright areas while ensuring sufficient signal accumulation in darker areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by allowing each detector to have its own customized measurement time parameter based on its local radiation environment. Detectors in different spatial locations with different background light conditions can operate with optimized measurement times tailored to their specific conditions, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
2Measurement precision
If the measurement time is extended to improve signal detection in weak radiation areas, then detection sensitivity improves, but detectors in strong radiation areas experience peak-clipping or data overflow
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement time based on local radiation conditions. Detectors in weak radiation areas use extended measurement times to improve signal detection, while detectors in strong radiation areas use shorter measurement times to prevent saturation. This dynamic adaptation ensures both sensitivity and reliability are optimized for each detector's operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement time parameter according to the radiation profile of each detector. By adjusting this key parameter based on local conditions, the system optimizes the balance between detection sensitivity and measurement validity, preventing data overflow while maintaining sufficient signal levels.
3Measurement precision
If detectors continuously operate at maximum sensitivity to detect weak signals, then detection precision is maximized, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the measurement time parameter based on radiation conditions and adjusts detector operation accordingly. In areas with strong background light, detectors can operate with shorter measurement times and reduced sensitivity, lowering energy consumption. In darker areas, detectors use extended measurement times only when needed, optimizing the balance between detection precision and energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic measurement cycles where detectors activate only when necessary based on local radiation conditions. This periodic operation rather than continuous high-sensitivity operation reduces energy consumption while maintaining detection precision when required.
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 precise control of dynamic range, preventing measurement overflow and reducing energy usage, optimizing performance and efficiency in optical detection devices, especially in applications with varying radiation profiles.
Implementation Method 1
a precise repetitive time recording of each photon of an optical light radiation, for example laser radiation
Implementation Method 2
measure the time of flight of this radiation, in other words the time that elapses between its transmission and its reception by the imaging system after reflection at the object
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing a dynamic range of an optical detection device illuminated by a modulated optical radiation, the method including: generating a detection signal from the modulated optical radiation; generating, based on the detection signal, a histogram including a plurality of histogram classes; comparing a chosen maximum value and a value of each histogram class of the plurality of histogram classes; and stopping a generation of the histogram in response to a determination that the value of any one of the plurality of histogram classes is equal to the maximum value.