Range Image Apparatus Frequency Modulation Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Range image generating apparatuses often produce erroneous distance values due to interference from other devices with the same modulation frequency, leading to generation of range images with interference.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a frequency changing unit that alters the modulation frequency for each frame rate or charge storage time, allowing synchronous control of the light source and image pickup element, thereby reducing the likelihood of interference by making it extremely small that modulation frequencies match between devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the modulation frequency is kept constant for synchronous control, then the control is simple and stable, but interference occurs when another range image generating apparatus with the same modulation frequency is present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the modulation frequency changeable over time. The frequency changing unit varies the modulation frequency between different frame rates or charge storage times, transforming the static frequency into a dynamic parameter. This resolves the contradiction by ensuring that even if another device operates at the same frequency at one moment, the probability of frequency collision becomes extremely small when frequencies are continuously varied, thereby preventing interference while maintaining control stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the modulation frequency parameter. The frequency changing unit changes the modulation frequency to different values for different frame rates or charge storage times. This parameter variation ensures that the own apparatus and another apparatus will have different modulation frequencies, making frequency matching extremely unlikely and thus preventing the harmful interference effect while preserving synchronous control functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the modulation frequency is changed frequently, then interference from other devices is reduced, but the complexity of synchronous control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a frequency changing unit that dynamically adjusts the modulation frequency between different frame rates or charge storage times. This dynamic frequency variation reduces interference from other devices operating at fixed frequencies, while the systematic approach to frequency changing maintains manageable control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by changing the modulation frequency in a structured manner corresponding to frame rates or charge storage times. This periodic frequency variation allows the system to maintain synchronous control through regular intervals while effectively reducing interference, as the frequency changes follow a predictable pattern that simplifies coordination between the light source and image pickup element.
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
Prevents or reduces the generation of range images with erroneous distance values by ensuring distinct modulation frequencies, allowing for the generation of accurate distance values even when interference occurs.
Implementation Method 1
an image pickup element including a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements that receive reflected light radiated from the light source and reflected by an object in the target space and converts the reflected light into charges
Data Source
AI summary
A range image generating apparatus capable of preventing or reducing generation of range images with interference, which contain e.g., pixels with erroneous distance values is provided. The range image generating apparatus includes: a light source radiating a light; an image pickup element; a range image generating unit; a frequency changing unit that changes a modulation frequency for each frame rate or charge storage time; and a control unit that controls the light source and the image pickup element in synchronization with the modulation frequency changed by the frequency changing unit.