VCSEL Projector Beam Profiling for Faster 3D Correspondence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical devices and methods for 3D measurements using structured light face challenges in accurately determining the position of complex objects due to the complexity and time-consuming nature of solving the correspondence problem, which involves identifying which point on the object was generated by which light beam.
Innovation Solution
A projector using an array of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) with a unique beam profile for each laser, allowing for distinguishable light beams that can be assigned to specific VCSELs in three-dimensional space, and a detector with a matrix of optical sensors to determine the position of objects by analyzing reflection patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If structured light methods are used for 3D measurements, then measurement capability is improved, but the correspondence problem becomes complex and time-consuming to solve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process by assigning unique beam profiles to individual light sources. Each light beam carries identification information through its distinct profile characteristics, allowing the detection system to segment and identify reflected beams from different sources independently, thereby eliminating the correspondence problem without requiring complex image processing or sequential pattern switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by giving each light beam a unique local characteristic through its beam profile. The beam profile includes specific properties (such as intensity distribution, shape, or temporal characteristics) that are locally assigned to each light source, enabling the detection system to identify the origin of each reflected beam based on its local profile characteristics rather than requiring global pattern analysis.
2Measurement precision
If complex image processing is used to solve the correspondence problem, then measurement accuracy is improved, but technical effort and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by embedding identification information directly in the light beams through their unique profiles. Each light beam essentially identifies itself through its profile characteristics, allowing the detection system to automatically determine the origin of reflected beams without requiring external reference information or complex computational matching algorithms. The system serves itself by making the identification information inherently available in the optical domain.
3Reliability
If sequential pattern switching is used to resolve correspondence, then measurement reliability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous useful action by allowing all light sources to operate simultaneously with their unique beam profiles. The measurement process continues without interruption or sequential switching because each beam's profile provides continuous identification information. This eliminates the need for temporal separation of measurements while maintaining reliable correspondence determination, thereby maximizing measurement productivity.
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 reliable and efficient determination of object positions with reduced technical effort and resources, allowing for accurate 3D measurements without the need for complex image processing or sequential pattern switching.
Implementation Method 1
The projector comprises at least one array of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), wherein each of the VCSELs is configured for generating at least one light beam
Implementation Method 2
the projector comprises at least one optical system configured for generating a characteristic beam profile for each of the light beams generated by the VCSELs of the array
Implementation Method 3
a detector with a matrix of optical sensors to determine the position of objects by analyzing reflection patterns
Data Source
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AI summary
A projector (110) for illuminating at least one object (112) with at least one illumination pattern (114) is proposed. The projector (110) comprises at least one array (118) of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) (120). Each of the VCSELs (120) is configured for generating at least one light beam. The projector (110) comprises at least one optical system (122) configured for generating a characteristic beam profile for each of the light beams generated by the VCSELs (120) of the array (118). The beam profile of neighboring VCSELs (120) of the array (118) differs in lateral and/or axial direction such that light beams of the VCSELs (120) of the array (118) are assignable to the corresponding VCSEL (120) in three-dimensional space.