Structured Light Projector Power Control for Eye Safety

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of laser emission power based on real-time detection of user proximity. The system continuously monitors the presence and distance of users through image acquisition devices and depth cameras, then dynamically adjusts the infrared laser power levels accordingly. This dynamic control enables the system to maintain high imaging precision when users are absent while reducing or disabling laser emission when users are detected in proximity, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and safety.

The system employs a feedback mechanism where the image acquisition device and depth camera continuously monitor the environment for user presence. When a user is detected within a predetermined distance, the system receives feedback signals and automatically adjusts the laser emission power. This closed-loop feedback control ensures that the laser power is optimized for imaging performance when safe, and reduced or stopped when user safety is at risk, effectively balancing depth detection precision with eye safety.

The system dynamically switches between different power modes based on real-time user proximity detection. When no user is detected or users are beyond the safety threshold, the system operates at full power to maintain optimal imaging quality and depth detection accuracy. When users enter the predetermined safe distance, the system transitions to reduced power or shutdown mode. This dynamic operation ensures that imaging quality is never compromised during safe operation while eliminating safety risks when users are present.

The system performs preliminary detection of user presence before initiating high-power laser emission. The image acquisition device and depth camera continuously scan the environment to detect users in advance. Only after confirming no users are within the predetermined distance does the system activate high-power laser projection. This preliminary action prevents the need to reduce power for safety, as the system ensures safety is maintained before optimizing for imaging quality.

The system implements periodic scanning and detection cycles to monitor user presence continuously. Rather than operating continuously at high power, the system periodically checks for users through the depth camera and image acquisition device. Based on these periodic detections, the system adjusts its operation between high-power imaging mode (when safe) and reduced-power or shutdown mode (when users are detected). This periodic monitoring approach maintains high productivity during safe operation while ensuring safety compliance at all times.

The system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of laser power based on its own detection capabilities. The integrated depth camera and image acquisition device enable the system to autonomously detect user presence and automatically adjust power levels without external intervention. This self-service mechanism ensures that productivity is maximized when safe while automatically prioritizing safety when users are present, eliminating the need for manual power management.