3D Range Sensing with Speculative Pixel Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional tracking systems face challenges with speed, accuracy, and noise susceptibility in measuring distances to targets using traditional methods.
Innovation Solution
A method and system employing sequential pixel beam scans in compact laser-based projection systems, where pixels are speculatively activated based on anticipated reflections to determine distance, transitioning to different modes like time-of-flight measurement when initial reflections are not captured, utilizing Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) and dynamic sensitivity adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional three-dimensional tracking systems use conventional detection methods, then they can measure distance to targets, but they suffer from undesirable speed, accuracy, and susceptibility to noise
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task into multiple sequential pixel scans rather than using a single comprehensive detection method. Each pixel independently scans and speculatively activates based on anticipated reflections, allowing the system to process distance measurement in discrete segments that can be individually optimized and noise-resistant
Solution Approach 2:
Pixels speculatively activate based on anticipated reflections before actual detection occurs. This preliminary activation allows the system to prepare detection states in advance, improving response speed and accuracy by reducing latency between target movement and detection activation
2Speed
If the system uses sequential pixel beam scans with speculative activation, then measurement speed and accuracy improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary speculative activation of pixels based on anticipated reflection patterns. This advance preparation enables faster measurement speed by eliminating detection latency, while the activation logic can be implemented through programmable control rather than complex hardware circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between different detection modes (sequential pixel scanning, time-of-flight measurement) based on real-time conditions. This dynamic adaptability improves measurement speed under varying conditions while the mode-switching capability can be managed through software control, avoiding permanent hardware complexity
3Reliability
If the system dynamically adapts sensitivity based on reflection detection, then noise resistance improves, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from detected reflections to dynamically adjust pixel sensitivity levels. When reflections are detected, the system adapts sensitivity to maintain optimal detection performance while filtering noise. This feedback mechanism can be implemented through programmable gain control and threshold adjustment, managing complexity through software-based adaptive algorithms rather than complex analog circuitry
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 enhances measurement speed, accuracy, and noise resistance by dynamically adapting to reflection detection, enabling precise distance measurement in real-time with improved robustness against ambient light and motion.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensor may include photodiodes operating in an avalanche photodiode mode or Geiger mode
Implementation Method 2
DE102015205826 describes a distance measurement system with a time-of-flight sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments are directed toward measuring a three dimensional range to a target. A transmitter emits light toward the target. An aperture may receive light reflections from the target. The aperture may direct the reflections toward a sensor that comprises rows of pixels that have columns. The sensor is offset a predetermined distance from the transmitter. Anticipated arrival times of the reflections on the sensor are based on the departure times and the predetermined offset distance. A portion of the pixels are sequentially activated based on the anticipated arrival times. The target's three dimensional range measurement is based on the reflections detected by the portion of the pixels.