Spatial Information Capturing Device Using Optical Encoder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spatial information capturing devices, such as those using TOF and dual camera methods, face challenges with complex software computations, high power consumption, and reduced accuracy in planar and multi-point scenarios, especially under ambient light pollution.
Innovation Solution
A spatial information capturing device incorporating a structured light generation module and a camera module with an optical encoder, where a reference pattern and evaluation pattern are projected onto a sensing unit, allowing the process controller to calculate spatial distance information by comparing pattern feature differences, without the need to pre-store the reference pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If TOF measurement method is used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but software computing complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture the projected pattern and creates a copied representation of the spatial information in image form. This optical copying approach replaces complex TOF computing with simpler image processing, maintaining measurement accuracy while reducing software complexity and power consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If dual camera distance measurement method is used, then power consumption is reduced, but measurement accuracy on smooth surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a structured light pattern as an intermediary between the camera and the target object. This projected pattern serves as a mediator that enhances surface feature visibility, allowing accurate distance measurement on smooth surfaces that would otherwise be difficult to measure, while still using a single camera to maintain low power consumption.
3Loss of information
If structured light pattern is projected, then spatial information extraction is improved, but impact of ambient light pollution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic modulation of the structured light pattern, projecting the pattern in alternating intervals with capture periods. This periodic action creates temporal separation between the projected light and ambient light pollution, allowing the system to distinguish and extract spatial information from the modulated pattern while filtering out continuous ambient light interference.
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 approach simplifies the processing procedure, reduces computational load and cost, and enhances accuracy by dynamically adjusting the structured light pattern, while minimizing the impact of ambient light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The optical encoder has a reference pattern. The reference pattern and the evaluation pattern have at least one corresponding pattern feature. In addition, both of the reference pattern and the evaluation pattern are projected on the sensing unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A spatial information capturing device includes a structured light generation module, a camera module and a process controller. The structured light generation module provides a structured light pattern to a target object, so that an evaluation pattern is formed on the target object. The camera module includes a lens group, an optical encoder and a sensing unit. The optical encoder has a reference pattern. The reference pattern and the evaluation pattern have at least one corresponding pattern feature. In addition, both of the reference pattern and the evaluation pattern are projected on the sensing unit. The process controller compares a pattern feature difference between the reference pattern and the evaluation pattern, and realizes a spatial distance information of the target object according to a result of comparing the pattern feature difference. Hence, the configuration or structure of the spatial information capturing device is simplified.