Stereo Gated Imaging System for Depth Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stereo imaging systems for automotive applications face challenges in providing accurate three-dimensional information at longer distances and in harsh weather conditions, particularly due to limitations in baseline length and backscattering effects, and require complex camera installation and dedicated Near-IR light sources.
Innovation Solution
A stereo gated imaging system utilizing pulsed light with predefined gating parameters, synchronized capturing devices, and a computer processor to enhance image capture and data processing, which includes a light source for illumination, multiple cameras for stereoscopic imaging, and a processor for improving image quality and depth estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If passive stereoscopy is used for three-dimensional information, then depth information can be obtained through triangulation, but accuracy is limited at longer distances and with short baseline lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines active gated imaging with passive stereoscopy to create a hybrid system. The active component uses time-gated detection of reflected light from pulsed illumination to extend ranging capabilities beyond the limitations of passive triangulation, while the passive stereo component continues to provide depth information through triangulation. This merging allows accurate depth measurement at longer distances without requiring extended baseline lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic pulsed illumination with time-gated detection windows synchronized to each pulse. By using short-duration pulses and corresponding gated exposure windows, the system can distinguish between light reflected from different distance ranges, enabling accurate depth measurement at extended distances while maintaining the ability to resolve fine depth variations that would be difficult with continuous illumination.
2Measurement precision
If stereo cameras are installed for three-dimensional information, then ranging capabilities are provided, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the imaging system multi-functional by enabling the same camera hardware to operate in both passive stereo mode and active gated imaging mode. The system can switch between or combine these modes depending on environmental conditions, providing ranging capabilities and depth information without requiring separate dedicated hardware installations for each function. This universality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
3Illumination intensity
If dedicated Near-IR light sources are used for night vision support, then nighttime imaging is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs illumination sources that serve dual purposes: they provide visible light for daytime driving assistance and emit Near-IR wavelengths for nighttime active gated imaging. The same optical components and detection hardware process both visible and Near-IR wavelengths, eliminating the need for separate dedicated Near-IR light sources and cameras. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining effective night vision support through the active gated imaging capability.
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
The system achieves accurate real-time target detection with low false detection rates and improved depth estimation in various conditions, including daytime, nighttime, and harsh weather, by using pulsed light and synchronized camera exposures to overcome limitations in baseline length and backscattering, while simplifying camera installation and enhancing visibility.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to illuminate the scene with pulsed light at a specified direction based on predefined gating parameters
Implementation Method 2
two or more capturing devices configured to capture images of the scene, each one of the capturing devices from at different spatial locations
Implementation Method 3
stereo imaging provides two main advantages versus a single camera: at least two different scene imagery and the second is three-dimensional information (i.e. ranging capabilities, stereoscopy) by triangulation
Implementation Method 4
a computer processor configured to improve the capturing by using data derived from the gated images and the gating parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A system for improving capturing of images of a scene, and data derived from them is provided herein. The system includes a light source configured to illuminate the scene with pulsed light at a specified direction based on predefined gating parameters; two or more capturing devices configured to capture images of the scene, each one of the capturing devices from at different spatial locations, wherein at least one of the capturing is synchronized with the pulsed light, so as to result in stereoscopic fused images of the scene for the synchronized capturing; and a computer processor configured to improve the capturing by using data derived from the gated images and the gating parameters. In another embodiment, the light source is not present and at least one of the sensors' is configured to apply multiple exposures for a single readout, to yield enhanced images that are used to improve the capturing.