TOF Detection Apparatus Phase Compensation for Signal Deviation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection devices face challenges in achieving accurate distance measurement due to signal deviations between multiple taps, leading to inefficiencies in image acquisition and frame rate, particularly in multi-tap structures used in Time of Flight (TOF) technology.

Innovation Solution

A detection device and method that incorporates a light source, a receiving portion with a photoelectric conversion module, and a controller to emit and receive light with multiple control signals of varying phases, allowing two circuits to generate electrical signals corresponding to these phases, which are then used to acquire target information by summing or processing the signals from the same phase to reduce deviations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multi-tap structure is used to improve image acquisition efficiency and frame rate, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to signal deviations between different taps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe rateVSAvoidsignal accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processor compares signals from multiple taps and identifies deviations. By detecting the phase difference between signals from different taps and calculating compensation values, the system feeds back correction data to adjust subsequent measurements, thereby maintaining high frame rates while improving measurement precision through continuous error correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of signal phase by introducing phase shifters that can adjust the phase of local oscillator signals. By dynamically changing the phase parameter of reference signals used in correlation detection, the system compensates for tap-to-tap variations and maintains consistent measurement accuracy across all taps while operating at high frame rates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple circuits are used to convert incident light into electrical signals to improve detection efficiency, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple independent detection circuits into a unified processing architecture. Instead of having completely separate circuits for each tap, the system uses a shared processor that handles signal correlation, phase detection, and distance calculation for all taps, reducing redundant components while maintaining parallel detection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The processor is designed as a universal component that can handle multiple functions: it performs correlation detection for different taps, calculates phase differences, computes distance measurements, and applies compensation algorithms. This multi-functional approach allows a single circuit to replace what would otherwise require multiple specialized circuits, reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 the accuracy and quality of image or distance measurement by minimizing signal deviations and optimizing the use of multi-tap structures, resulting in improved detection precision and frame rate.

Implementation Method 1

The photoelectric conversion module is configured to generate photo-generated electrons according to the received light amount

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20230204735A1Detection apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2023.06.29 NINGBO ABAX SENSING ELECTRONICS TECH CO LTD
  • US20230204735A1 patent drawing
  • US20230204735A1 patent drawing
  • US20230204735A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are a detection apparatus and a detection method using the detection apparatus. The apparatus comprises: a light source ; a receiving part containing a photoelectric conversion module, with the receiving part further containing a first circuit for receiving a first modulation signal, and a second circuit for receiving a second modulation signal; a controller, which can control the light source to emit irradiation light and generates a plurality of delay control phase signals in different phases, with first and second modulation circuits of the receiving part outputting electrical signals corresponding to at least one receiving control signal in the same phase; and an information acquisition unit for acquiring target information of a detected object according to the electrical signals of the receiving control signal in the same phase that are respectively obtained by the two circuits.