Time-of-flight imaging with segmented laser diode array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Depth sensing imaging systems using coherent light sources face limitations in acquisition time for high spatial resolutions and fast frame rates due to electromechanical steering devices.
Innovation Solution
A time-of-flight imaging system employing multiple coherent light sources, including a light emitter array of laser diodes and a light deflection device, where each laser diode emits a pulse of light, and the light steering device is adjusted after each pulse, allowing for increased acquisition rates and spatial resolution by simplifying the light steering process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single coherent light source with electromechanical steering device is used, then the system structure is simple, but the acquisition time is limited and frame rates are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single light source into multiple coherent light sources (laser diodes arranged in an array). Each laser diode can be independently controlled to emit light pulses, enabling parallel illumination of multiple spatial locations. This segmentation increases the acquisition rate by allowing simultaneous depth measurements across multiple points while distributing the steering burden across multiple simpler emitters rather than requiring a complex single-point steering system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple coherent light sources into a unified array structure that works together with a light steering device. The array of laser diodes is integrated with the steering mechanism to create a coordinated system where multiple light sources collectively cover the required field of view. This merging approach achieves high acquisition rates through parallel operation while maintaining manageable system complexity through integrated design.
2Measurement precision
If electromechanical steering device is used for high spatial resolution, then the measurement precision is improved, but the acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the light source into an array of multiple laser diodes, the system can simultaneously illuminate multiple spatial locations with high precision. Each laser diode in the array can be precisely controlled to target specific spatial positions, achieving high spatial resolution measurements across the entire field of view in parallel, thereby reducing the total acquisition time compared to sequentially scanning a single beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic pulsed operation of the laser diode array, where each laser diode emits light in synchronized pulses. This periodic action allows the system to perform repeated rapid measurements across the field of view, achieving high spatial resolution through multiple precise pulses while minimizing acquisition time through efficient temporal sequencing of the pulsed emissions.
3Productivity
If multiple coherent light sources are used, then the acquisition rate and spatial resolution are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is segmented into an array of multiple laser diodes, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation enables parallel light emission to multiple spatial locations simultaneously, dramatically increasing the acquisition rate. The modular array structure allows each element to be relatively simple while the collective system achieves high performance through coordinated operation of multiple units.
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 acquisition rates and spatial resolution by reducing the need for extensive light steering device movement, enabling faster scanning and improved depth estimation capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitter comprising at least one one-dimensional array of laser diodes; driving each laser diode of an array of laser diodes to emit a pulse of light
Implementation Method 2
a light deflection device configured to deflect light from the light emitter to the object
Implementation Method 3
a photosensitive element for receiving reflected light from the object
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the embodiments are directed to a time-of-flight imaging system and methods of using the same. The time-of-flight imaging system includes a light emitter comprising at least one one-dimensional array of laser diodes; a photosensitive element for receiving reflected light from an object; and a light deflection device configured to deflect light from the light emitter to the object. In embodiments, the time-of-flight imaging system includes a lens structure to deflect emitting light from the laser diodes at a predetermined angle towards a light steering device.