ToF Camera Illumination Modulation for Inter-Device Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Time-of-Flight (ToF) cameras lack efficient methods for communication and data exchange between multiple devices, leading to potential interference and limited capabilities in dynamic environments.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a ToF camera system where the illumination unit modulates a light signal with an information-bearing signal to enable communication between ToF cameras, using either coherent or non-coherent modulation schemes, allowing for bidirectional data exchange and configuration optimization among multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ToF cameras use unmodulated light for illumination, then the illumination function is simple and reliable, but communication and data exchange between multiple devices are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit of the ToF camera is designed to perform multiple functions: both illuminating the scene for depth measurement and transmitting information-bearing signals for communication between devices. By modulating the illumination light with data signals, the same hardware component serves dual purposes, eliminating the need for separate communication hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the illumination function and communication function into a single integrated system. The light source that provides illumination for time-of-flight measurement is simultaneously used as a communication channel by modulating it with information-bearing signals, merging two separate functions into one unified approach.
2Reliability
If multiple ToF cameras operate simultaneously without modulation, then device complexity is low, but interference between devices occurs and data exchange is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where receiving devices detect modulated signals from transmitting devices and use this information to adjust their operation. This feedback enables coordinated operation among multiple ToF cameras, allowing them to exchange configuration information and adapt their timing or modulation parameters to minimize interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination and signal transmission parameters are made dynamic and adjustable based on communication needs. The modulation frequency, amplitude, and timing can be adapted in real-time based on the information being exchanged and the operational environment, allowing flexible coordination between multiple devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ToF cameras use additional hardware for communication, then communication capability is enhanced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing illumination unit is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both illumination and communication functions. The same light source and detection hardware used for depth measurement are utilized for data transmission and reception, eliminating the need for separate communication hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ToF camera system uses its own illumination infrastructure to provide communication services. Rather than requiring external or additional communication hardware, the system leverages its existing light source and sensor array to perform both ranging and data exchange functions, making the system self-sufficient.
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
Enables effective communication and data exchange among multiple ToF cameras, reducing interference and allowing for adaptive configuration, thereby enhancing 3D imaging and data transmission capabilities without requiring additional hardware.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination unit (110) configured to exchange information with a remote receiver by modulating a light signal (114) to be emitted in accordance with an information bearing signal (116)
Implementation Method 2
measuring a phase shift between an outgoing and incoming modulated light signal. For each pixel, the related distance may then be calculated from this phase shift
Implementation Method 3
a ToF sensor configured to detect an information bearing signal included in a modulated light signal emitted from a remote light source
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments address a concept for exchanging information between time-of-flight ranging devices. For example, a first time-of-flight camera has an illumination unit configured to transmit information to a second time-of-flight camera by modulating a light signal to be emitted in accordance with an information bearing signal. The second time-of-flight camera has a time-of-flight sensor configured to detect the information bearing signal included in the emitted light signal of the first time of flight camera.