SPAD TOF Quenching Control for Accurate Distance Sensing

The quenching circuit transitions from a fixed design to a dynamic, adjustable system. The patent implements a quenching circuit with variable quenching voltage that can be controlled in real-time based on detection requirements, allowing the circuit characteristics to adapt rather than remain static. This resolves the contradiction by enabling precision improvement through adjustability while maintaining reasonable complexity through controlled variability.

The patent changes the electrical parameters of the quenching circuit, specifically the quenching voltage and resistance values, to optimize performance. By adjusting these parameters based on detection distance and target characteristics, the system achieves higher measurement precision without requiring a completely complex circuit redesign, as only key parameters are modified rather than the entire circuit architecture.

The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the quenching control voltage is adjusted based on the detected photon count and distance information. The system monitors detection results and dynamically adjusts the quenching voltage to maintain optimal sensitivity while suppressing noise. This feedback loop resolves the contradiction by automatically balancing sensitivity enhancement against noise reduction based on real-time detection conditions.

The quenching circuit is designed to self-regulate its operation based on the detection state. When photon counts indicate strong signals, the circuit automatically adjusts quenching parameters to prevent saturation and noise. When signals are weak, it enhances sensitivity without excessive noise amplification. This self-adjusting capability resolves the contradiction without requiring external intervention or complex additional control systems.

The quenching circuit is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities through variable voltage control and switchable resistance elements. This allows the circuit to adapt its characteristics based on detection distance and target properties, achieving high versatility. The complexity is managed by implementing dynamics only where needed for adaptability rather than throughout the entire system.

The quenching circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides fixed quenching for standard operations, variable quenching for distance-adaptive sensitivity control, and noise suppression capability. By making the circuit multi-functional, the patent achieves high adaptability without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function, thus managing overall system complexity while enhancing versatility.