Programmable Laser Array for Structured Light Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional structured-light scanning systems suffer from low decode rate and narrow dynamic range due to fixed light sources, resulting in inaccurate depth and surface information acquisition.
Innovation Solution
An image projector with a programmable light source and beam shaper, utilizing a laser array of individually controllable laser diodes and diffractive optical elements, allows for switchable emission of different light patterns to enhance decode rate and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed light source is used in conventional structured-light scanning systems, then the device structure is simple, but the decode rate is low and the dynamic range is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is divided into multiple independently controllable laser diodes arranged in an array. Each laser diode can be individually programmed to emit or not emit light, enabling the system to generate various light patterns by selectively activating different segments of the array. This segmentation allows for high decode rates while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source transitions from a fixed, static configuration to a dynamic, programmable array of laser diodes. The controller can dynamically adjust which laser diodes are active and in what patterns, allowing the system to adapt to different scanning requirements and object types. This dynamic capability increases the decode rate and expands the dynamic range without significantly complicating the device structure.
2Measurement precision
If a fixed light source is used in conventional structured-light scanning systems, then the device structure is simple, but the depth and surface information accuracy is poor
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the light source into individually controllable laser diodes, the system can project precise, customizable light patterns that enhance the accuracy of depth and surface measurements. The segmented structure allows for optimized pattern design that improves measurement precision while keeping the device structure manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the light source by using a programmable array of laser diodes with adjustable emission characteristics. This allows optimization of light patterns for different measurement scenarios, improving depth and surface information accuracy. The parameter changes are achieved through software control rather than hardware redesign, avoiding excessive device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed light source is used in conventional structured-light scanning systems, then the device structure is simple, but the dynamic range is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable laser diode array serves multiple functions: it can generate various light patterns, adapt to different scanning scenarios, and work with different object types. This multi-functionality expands the dynamic range and adaptability of the system while maintaining a relatively simple device structure through software-based control rather than multiple hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic programmability of the laser diode array allows the system to adapt to a wide range of scanning conditions and object characteristics. The controller can dynamically adjust the light patterns to optimize performance for different scenarios, significantly expanding the dynamic range without requiring a complex device structure with multiple fixed light sources.
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 enables improved decode rate and more accurate depth and surface information determination, expanding the dynamic range of structured-light scanning systems.
Implementation Method 1
The VCSEL may include a plurality of laser diodes 111 arranged in rows and columns, and each of the laser diodes 111 may be individually programmable to turn on or off
Implementation Method 2
The beam shaper 13 may include a diffractive optical element (DOE), a micro lens array (MLA) or a multifocal diffractive lens (MDL) that shapes and splits the light beam
Implementation Method 3
The camera 101 is configured to capture a reflected pattern of light (of the shaped pattern of light) reflected from the object
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4C
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An image projector includes a light source capable of switchable emitting different patterns of light; and a beam shaper that shapes a light beam emitted by the light source, thereby generating a shaped pattern of light to be projected onto an object in a scene.