ToF Sensor Calibration Using Movable Transceiver Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional calibration methods for Time-of-Flight (ToF) 3D imaging sensors are inefficient and costly due to the need for large calibration systems and extensive object movement, making them impractical for high-volume production environments.
Innovation Solution
A compact calibration system using movable transceiver tables with light redirecting modules, such as fiber-coupling assemblies or reflective elements, to simulate varying light travel distances without the need for a large calibration object, allowing for efficient calibration of ToF 3D imaging devices by adjusting the separation gap and positions of the tables along multiple axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional calibration method using a large calibration object at different distances is used, then the calibration accuracy is improved, but the system size and construction cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable transceiver table that can move along multiple axes (X, Y, Z) to create variable light path lengths. Instead of using a large calibration object at different distances in three-dimensional space, the system uses a compact optical arrangement where the transceiver table's movement along multiple axes simulates different distance measurements. This dimensional transformation allows the system to achieve the same calibration effect in a much smaller physical footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light redirecting modules (mirrors or prisms) as intermediaries to extend the effective light path length without increasing the physical system size. These optical elements redirect the light between the transmitter and receiver, creating a longer optical path within a compact mechanical structure. This allows the system to simulate calibration at various distances while maintaining a small overall system volume.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional calibration method requiring movement of calibration object to different distances is used, then the calibration accuracy is improved, but the calibration time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable transceiver table that can dynamically adjust its position along multiple axes during calibration. This dynamic positioning allows the system to quickly change the light path length and simulate different measurement distances without the need to physically move a large calibration object. The motorized movement enables rapid repositioning, significantly reducing the time required to complete calibration across the full measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous calibration process where the transceiver table moves smoothly through different positions to cover the entire measurement range. Instead of discrete, time-consuming steps of moving and repositioning large calibration objects, the system maintains continuous operation with the transceiver table traversing the calibration space, ensuring that calibration data is collected across all distances without interruption or idle time.
3Measurement precision
If a conventional calibration method using a large calibration system is used, then the calibration accuracy is improved, but the construction and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the calibration approach from requiring large physical distances to using multi-axis movement of a compact transceiver table. This dimensional transformation allows the system to achieve the same calibration effect with much smaller components, reducing material costs, manufacturing complexity, and assembly requirements while maintaining calibration accuracy across the full measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of moving large calibration objects with a motorized transceiver table that moves along guided rails or linear actuators. This substitution reduces the mechanical complexity and material requirements compared to conventional methods, while the motorized positioning provides precise control. The optical components (mirrors or prisms) further reduce the mechanical structure size needed to achieve the same optical path lengths.
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 reduces the size and cost of the calibration system, significantly shortening calibration time and enabling efficient calibration over a wide range of distances, making it suitable for high-volume production and various 3D sensor applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first transceiver table and a second transceiver table movable relative to each other, the first transceiver table comprising a first light redirecting module for receiving the light from the light receiver and the second transceiver table comprising a second light redirecting module for transmitting the light to the light emitter
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device testing system has a light receiver for receiving light from an imaging device under test, a light emitter for returning the light back to the imaging device under test, and first and second transceiver tables movable relative to each other. The first transceiver table has a first light redirecting module for receiving the light from the light receiver and the second transceiver table comprising a second light redirecting module for transmitting the light to the light emitter. The first and second light redirecting modules are positionable to simulate a distance travelled by the light from the light receiver, through the first and second light redirecting modules and a gap between the first and second light redirecting modules, to the light emitter.