TOF Imaging Distance Reliability Using Pixel Variation Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses using time-of-flight (TOF) methods struggle to determine the reliability of distance information accurately, which affects processes relying on distance measurements.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus that calculates distance information using a time-of-flight method and includes a signal processor to determine the reliability of the distance by calculating variation information for each pixel unit, using signal charges to assess the amount of variation in distance measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If distance information is calculated using the time-of-flight method, then distance measurement capability is achieved, but reliability determination of the distance information is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by calculating variation information from multiple signal charges and using this variation data to determine the reliability of distance information. The signal processor continuously monitors signal quality metrics (such as signal-to-noise ratio) and adjusts processing accordingly, creating a closed-loop system where measurement results inform subsequent processing decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by calculating multiple signal charges with different integration periods and using these varying parameters to compute variation information. By analyzing how distance measurements change with different signal integration parameters, the system determines reliability without requiring additional hardware.
2Reliability
If multiple signal charges are calculated with different integration periods, then variation information can be determined, but calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal charge calculation into multiple distinct integration periods (first, second, third periods), allowing variation analysis through temporal segmentation rather than spatial or hardware complexity. Each segmented measurement contributes to the overall reliability assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by using its own multiple measurements to automatically determine reliability without external validation. The variation information calculation is self-contained within the signal processor, eliminating the need for additional reference measurements or external calibration systems.
3Reliability
If variation information is calculated for each pixel unit, then reliability of distance information is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by calculating multiple signal charges with different integration periods before the final distance determination. This advance preparation of multiple measurement sets enables rapid reliability assessment without adding post-processing time, as all necessary data is prepared in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by overlapping signal charge accumulation periods and continuously processing measurements as they become available. Rather than sequential batch processing, the system continuously accumulates and analyzes signal charges, minimizing idle time and maintaining productive processing throughout.
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 the determination of the reliability of distance information, allowing for more accurate and reliable distance measurements.
Implementation Method 1
pixel units each of which converts received light into a signal charge
Implementation Method 2
calculates distance information for each of the pixel units by a time-of-flight (TOF) method that uses signal charges
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes: a light emitter that irradiates a subject with light; and a solid-state imaging device that includes pixel units each of which converts received light into a signal charge, and a signal processor that calculates distance information indicating a distance to the subject. When one or more of the pixel units receive reflected light which is the light irradiated by the light emitter and reflected by the subject, the signal processor (i) calculates the distance information for each of the pixel units by a time-of-flight (TOF) method that uses signal charges, each of the signal charges being the signal charge into which the received light is converted by each of the pixel units, and (ii) calculates, for each of one or more of the pixel units, variation information indicating an amount of variation regarding the distance indicated by the distance information.