Phase Ambiguity Resolution Using Multi-Wavelength Counter Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase measurement systems face challenges in accurately resolving phase ambiguity in multi-target scenarios, leading to erroneous measurements due to the inability to distinguish between targets and non-target objects, and are prone to noise and measurement errors.
Innovation Solution
A method that emits signal-carrying radiation at multiple wavelengths, processes the received phase values to determine distances using a counter-based algorithm, discretizing the ambiguity interval into cells and incrementing counters for each phase shift, allowing for the determination of distances to multiple targets without prior assignment of phases to targets, and utilizing vectorial decomposition for phase separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase measurement is used for distance measurement, then measurement accuracy in mm or sub-mm range is achieved, but phase ambiguity cannot be resolved in multi-target situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ambiguity interval into multiple cells, each representing a possible distance range. By dividing the continuous ambiguity space into discrete cells and assigning counters to track phase measurements in each cell, the system can distinguish between multiple targets at different distances. This segmentation allows the phase measurement system to maintain high precision while resolving ambiguities in multi-target scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to the measurement space by using multiple wavelengths (frequencies) simultaneously. By measuring phase shifts at different wavelengths and combining this information through the counter-based algorithm, the system transforms a single-ambiguous dimension into a multi-dimensional solution space where each dimension corresponds to a different wavelength measurement, enabling unambiguous distance determination.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurements at different carrier wavelengths are used to resolve phase ambiguity, then phase ambiguity is resolved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous measurement by simultaneously acquiring phase shift data at multiple wavelengths in a single measurement cycle. Rather than performing sequential measurements one after another, the system continuously collects phase information across different wavelengths and feeds it into the counter-based algorithm, which processes all measurements concurrently. This continuous action eliminates idle time between measurements and maintains productive operation throughout the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary processing by pre-dividing the ambiguity interval into cells and preparing the counter structure before actual measurement begins. This preliminary setup allows the measurement system to immediately start processing phase data without delay, as the computational framework is already in place to handle multi-wavelength measurements efficiently.
3Device complexity
If conventional phase meter is used, then simple device structure is maintained, but false measurements occur in multi-target situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the measurement system to automatically identify and exclude false measurements without external intervention. The counter-based algorithm autonomously processes phase data from multiple wavelengths, identifies which measurements correspond to actual targets versus false returns, and selects the correct distance measurement automatically. This self-service capability maintains relative simplicity while significantly improving measurement accuracy in complex multi-target environments.
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 method provides a robust and efficient solution for resolving phase ambiguity in multi-target situations, improving measurement accuracy and reducing noise sensitivity, while maintaining favorable transit time behavior.
Implementation Method 1
Commercially available electrooptical rangefinders operate chiefly according to the principle of phase measurement... The signal evaluation of the received echoes is a standard technical task... Phase-measuring systems must solve the problem of the phase ambiguity
Implementation Method 2
emitting modulated electromagnetic radiation, for example intensity modulated light, to the targets to be measured and subsequently receiving one or more echoes from the back-scattering objects
Implementation Method 3
For resolving the phase ambiguity, a plurality of measurements at different carrier wavelengths are generally used. The distance is then determined from the measured phase shifts
Implementation Method 4
A method that emits signal-carrying radiation at multiple wavelengths, processes the received phase values to determine distances using a counter-based algorithm, discretizing the ambiguity interval into cells and incrementing counters for each phase shift
Data Source
AI summary
In order to derive distance information according to the phase measuring principle, a periodic signal with at least two, in particular modulated, wavelengths λi are transmitted to two or more objects, their reflections are received again and the associated phases φi are determined and decomposed into their individual object phases φij which are assigned to the J objects. In order to resolve phase ambiguities, an ambiguity interval in which at least one object is located is divided into cells (5) with a defined width, with each cell (5) being assigned a counter reading and a distance. The counter reading is incremented for the cells (5) which are assigned to a possible object distance, with the incrementation being carried out for a periodicity sequential variable and for all the phases. An absolute phase or a true object distance Dj from the at least two objects is determined from the distribution of the counter readings.