Range-Finding Apparatus Binary Search Converter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing range-finding techniques are time-consuming and face difficulties in accurately measuring the three-dimensional shape of high-speed moving objects due to the need for acquiring multiple images and complex metering processes.
Innovation Solution
A range-finding apparatus comprising an optical receiver, a light source unit, and a calculation unit that projects light with different irradiation patterns, converts pixel signals using binary search to output digital signals with varying bit widths, and calculates distance based on these signals, allowing for faster image acquisition and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple captured images are acquired using spatial coding technique, then three-dimensional shape measurement is achieved, but measurement time increases and speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using multiple irradiation patterns with different periods (first period and second period) to encode spatial information. The light source projects patterns with different temporal frequencies, allowing the system to capture depth information through temporal modulation rather than requiring multiple sequential images, thereby reducing acquisition time while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by varying the bit width for different periods - using a first bit width for the first period and a second bit width for the second period. This parameter variation allows optimized data representation where less significant depth information uses fewer bits, reducing overall data processing time and enabling faster three-dimensional shape measurement without sacrificing essential precision.
2Productivity
If multiple captured images are acquired with different bit widths, then data processing speed improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data processing into two distinct periods with different bit widths. The converter is divided into first and second converters that operate sequentially - the first converter processes data with a first bit width during the first period, and the second converter processes data with a second bit width during the second period. This segmentation allows simplified processing in each segment while achieving overall high productivity through the combination of both segments.
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
Enables faster calculation of distances to moving objects by reducing the time required for image capture and processing, improving precision and speed in determining three-dimensional shapes.
Implementation Method 1
an optical receiver configured to receive light to output a pixel signal
Data Source
AI summary
The range-finding apparatus (1) includes an optical receiver (110), a light source unit (200), a converter (134), and a calculation unit (300). The optical receiver (110) receives light to output a pixel signal. The light source unit (200) projects light with a first irradiation pattern in a first period and projects light with a second irradiation pattern in a second period. The converter (134) sequentially converts the pixel signal bit by bit using binary search to output a first digital signal and a second digital signal, the first digital signal being output by performing the conversion with a first bit width in the first period, the second digital signal being output by performing the conversion with a second bit width in the second period, the second bit width being less than the first bit width. The calculation unit (300) calculates a distance on the basis of the first digital signal and the second digital signal.