Layered ToF Camera Module Layout for Heat Isolation and Depth Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ToF camera modules experience accuracy issues due to noise and distortion in depth information as distance increases, leading to decreased correlation with color images, and there is a need for an efficient arrangement relationship between RGB modules and ToF sensors to address heat generation and performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
The ToF camera module is designed with a light source and lens unit in one layer, a sensor unit in a separate layer, and an idle space to efficiently transfer heat generated from the light source unit to the outside, using a housing with stepped surfaces and connectors to minimize heat transfer through other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the ToF sensor and RGB module are placed adjacent to each other, then depth image correction is enabled, but heat generated from the ToF camera degrades performance of both modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stepped structural design where the housing has a first surface and a second surface at different heights. The idle space is formed between these surfaces, creating a three-dimensional heat dissipation pathway. This dimensional change allows heat to be directed away from sensitive components through vertical and lateral pathways, resolving the contradiction between maintaining measurement precision and eliminating heat-induced harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is segmented into multiple surfaces (first surface and second surface) at different heights, creating distinct functional zones. The idle space segmentations heat flow pathways, directing heat away from the ToF sensor and RGB module. This segmentation allows the system to maintain close proximity for functional integration while creating thermal separation to prevent performance degradation.
2Speed
If the ToF sensor is placed close to the light source unit, then the optical path is shortened, but heat from the light source unit affects the sensor performance
Solution Approach 1:
The idle space acts as a thermal intermediary between the light source unit and the ToF sensor. While the optical path remains short for speed, the idle space creates a thermal buffer that prevents direct heat transfer from the light source to the sensor. This intermediary space allows the system to maintain both fast light transmission and stable sensor performance.
3Volume of moving object
If the RGB module and ToF sensor are arranged in a compact configuration, then device size is reduced, but heat dissipation becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical dimension by creating a stepped housing structure with surfaces at different heights. The idle space extends in the vertical direction, allowing heat to dissipate upward and outward without increasing the horizontal footprint. This dimensional approach enables compact device size while maintaining effective heat dissipation pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is segmented into multiple levels with the idle space creating distinct thermal zones. This segmentation allows heat to be channeled through specific pathways away from the compact sensor assembly, enabling efficient heat dissipation within a small overall device volume.
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 design effectively prevents performance degradation by efficiently transferring heat generated from the ToF camera, improving accuracy and reducing occlusion between RGB and ToF camera modules, thereby enhancing the overall camera performance.
Implementation Method 1
a light source unit located on one surface of a first substrate, a ToF lens unit receiving light emitted from the light source unit
Implementation Method 2
The ToF module measures the ToF of light irradiated to an object and then reflected from the object to a light receiver, thereby obtaining a depth image
Implementation Method 3
an idle space formed on a side of the other surface of the first substrate... efficiently transferring heat generated from the light source unit to the outside
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a time of flight (ToF) camera module and a camera device. The camera device includes a body forming an accommodation space, and a ToF camera module located in the accommodation space. The ToF camera module includes a light source unit located on one surface of a first substrate, a ToF lens unit receiving light emitted from the light source unit, a ToF sensor unit located on one surface of a second substrate connected to the first substrate by a first connector, and receiving light passing through the ToF lens unit, and an idle space formed on a side of the other surface of the first substrate. The light source unit and the ToF lens unit are located in a first layer, and the ToF sensor unit is located in a second layer different from the first layer.