ToF Signal Processing Device Pixel Group Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal processing technologies for time-of-flight (ToF) methods require complex control of charge accumulation periods for each pixel group in imaging devices, limiting their versatility in detecting distances between imaging devices and subjects.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing device and method that determine pairs of pixel groups based on controlled charge accumulation periods and light projection periods, enabling distance detection with high versatility without the need for specialized imaging devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a CMOS imaging device with charge distribution type pixel structure is used for ToF distance detection, then distance detection capability is achieved, but at least two memories per pixel are required increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling general-purpose CMOS imaging devices to perform ToF distance detection without requiring specialized charge distribution type pixel structures or multiple memories per pixel. The determination part synchronizes the charge accumulation period with the pulse light projection period, allowing standard imaging devices to achieve distance detection functionality.
2Device complexity
If technology using two pixel groups with different charge accumulation periods is employed, then one memory per pixel is sufficient, but control of start time and end time of charge accumulation period for each pixel group is required increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The determination part automatically determines the pair of pixel groups and synchronizes their charge accumulation periods with the pulse light projection period based on timing information. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual or complex external control of start and end times for each pixel group, reducing operational complexity while maintaining the simplified memory structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If general purpose CMOS imaging device is used without specialized control capability, then device versatility is improved, but automatic determination of pixel group pairing based on timing synchronization is required
Solution Approach 1:
The determination part acts as an intermediary between the imaging device and the distance detection function. It receives timing information including the start time and end time of the pulse light projection period, automatically determines appropriate pixel groups, and synchronizes their charge accumulation periods accordingly. This intermediary mechanism enables general-purpose imaging devices to perform ToF detection without requiring specialized control capabilities built into the imaging device itself.
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 accurate and versatile distance detection between imaging devices and subjects using a general CMOS imaging device, improving detection accuracy and reducing the complexity of control requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The time of flight (ToF) method is a method of detecting the distance between an imaging device and a target object by taking a target object as a subject, projecting pulse light toward the subject, and measuring time until reflected light from the subject is received by the imaging device.
Implementation Method 2
the distance between the subject and the imaging device can be detected, for example, by distributing and holding accumulated charges of a leading part and accumulated charges of a trailing part by the reflected light from the subject with respect to the projected pulse light, for each pixel
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a signal processing device that enables detection of the distance between an imaging device and a subject using an imaging device with high versatility, a signal processing method, and a program. A determination part classifies pixels to a plurality of pixel groups, and determines a pair of a first pixel group and a second pixel group using for detection of distance between the imaging device and the subject from a plurality of pixel groups on the basis of a charge accumulation period for each pixel group of the imaging device in which charge accumulation period is controlled, and a light projection period of pulse light projected toward the subject of the imaging device, for each pixel group. The present disclosure can be applied to, for example, a distance detection device or the like.