SPAD ToF Ranging Array Parallel Zone Readout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ranging technologies, such as Time of Flight methods, face limitations in efficiently detecting gestures and tracking objects with high accuracy and speed, particularly in capturing faster gestures and multiple targets within a field of view, due to serial evaluation of zones which slows down data collection.
Innovation Solution
A ranging apparatus with a first array of light-sensitive detectors divided into zones and readout circuitry that allows parallel data reading from multiple zones, combined with a processor for determining object position and movement, and optionally a second array for providing reference values, enabling dynamic zone configuration and gesture recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If time-interleaved measurements are used to read out data from multiple zones, then device complexity is reduced, but data acquisition rate decreases and gesture detection accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is divided into multiple independent zones, each with its own readout channel. This segmentation allows parallel data acquisition from different spatial regions, increasing the overall data acquisition rate while maintaining manageable circuitry complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal multiplexing (time-interleaved) to spatial parallelism by assigning dedicated readout channels to different zones. This dimensional shift from time to space enables simultaneous data collection without increasing temporal complexity
2Productivity
If multiple readout channels are provided for each zone, then data acquisition rate increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detector array into zones, with each zone having a dedicated readout channel. This creates a scalable modular architecture where complexity is distributed across independent units rather than concentrated in a single complex readout system
Solution Approach 2:
Each readout channel is designed as a universal module that can handle data from its associated zone independently. This multi-functional design allows the same circuitry architecture to be replicated across multiple zones, reducing overall system complexity through standardization
3Measurement precision
If parallel acquisition from multiple zones is implemented, then gesture detection accuracy and speed improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is manufactured as separate zone modules that can be independently fabricated and then assembled. This segmentation enables specialized manufacturing processes for each zone while simplifying quality control and defect isolation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic zone configuration where boundaries and assignments can be adjusted after manufacturing. This flexibility allows the system to adapt to manufacturing variations and optimize performance without requiring precise manufacturing tolerances
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 solution enables faster gesture detection and tracking of multiple objects by allowing parallel acquisition of range and signal intensity values, increasing data collection rates and enabling recognition of complex gestures with relative accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
receive light from a light source which has been reflected by an object
Implementation Method 2
A photon may generate a carrier in the SPAD through the photo electric effect
Implementation Method 3
The photo generated carrier may trigger an avalanche current in one or more of the SPADs in an SPAD array
Implementation Method 4
The calculation of the time taken by the signal for this travel may be obtained by measuring the phase shift between the signal coming out of the light source and the signal reflected from the object
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
A ranging apparatus comprises a first array of a plurality of light sensitive detectors configured to receive light from a light source which has been reflected by an object, said first array comprising a plurality of different zones, a readout circuitry having at least one read out channel, and configured to read out data from each of said plurality of zones, and a processor configured in dependence on said outputs from the first array to determine a position information associated with said object.