Programmable Pulse Generator for Flexible ToF Phase and Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pulse generators for Time-of-Flight (ToF) camera systems, particularly those using the indirect distance measurement method, require complex configurations and many flip-flops to set various frequency and phase settings, limiting their adaptability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A pulse generator with programmable counters and a D-type flip-flop AND gate configuration allows for flexible setting of phase and frequency, reducing the number of flip-flops needed and enabling wider settings with a simpler circuit design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the circuit scale is increased to support various frequency and phase settings, then the adaptability of the pulse generator is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses programmable counters that can be configured with different division ratios to generate various frequencies and phases. By changing the parameter values stored in the counters rather than changing the circuit structure, the system achieves high adaptability with simple circuitry. The counters respond to start signals and automatically generate pulses with programmable characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulse generator employs universal counter circuits that can perform multiple functions (frequency division, phase control, pulse generation) through software/configuration settings rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function. This multi-functional approach reduces overall circuit complexity while maintaining versatility for different measurement requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more flip-flops are used to achieve various frequency and phase settings, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or hardwired flip-flop-based frequency and phase control mechanisms with programmable counter circuits controlled by digital signals. This substitution allows flexible frequency and phase settings through software/configuration rather than physical circuit changes, significantly reducing the number of flip-flops needed while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic, reconfigurable counter circuits that can change their division ratios and output characteristics in real-time based on control signals, replacing static flip-flop networks. This dynamic approach allows the same hardware to adapt to different measurement requirements without requiring additional components.
3Device complexity
If a simple configuration is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability for various settings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high adaptability with simple configuration by using programmable parameters stored in the counter circuits. The counters can be configured with different division ratios and response to start signals to generate various frequencies and phases, eliminating the need for complex hardwired configurations while maintaining full versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulse generator automatically configures its output based on programmed parameters and responds autonomously to start signals, eliminating the need for complex external control circuitry. The system self-adjusts its frequency and phase characteristics through internal programmable counters, achieving simplicity without sacrificing adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
[Problem] To provide a pulse generator that is used in a ToF camera system especially adopting the indirect system and can be ready for various settings of a frequency or a phase with a simple configuration.[Solving means] There is provided a pulse generator that includes a first counter that determines a phase of a pulse to be outputted and used for distance measurement to a distance measurement target using an input signal, and a second counter that determines a frequency of the pulse using the input signal.