Time-of-flight sensors revolutionize 3-D data analysis

Jan. 1, 2010
A collaborative effort between researchers at the University of Siegen (Siegen, Germany), the University of Lübeck (Lübeck, Germany), Christian-Albrechts-University (Kiel, Germany), and the Technical University of Denmark (Copenhagen, Denmark) is advancing revolutionary time-of-flight (TOF) camera technology.

A collaborative effort between researchers at the University of Siegen (Siegen, Germany), the University of Lübeck (Lübeck, Germany), Christian-Albrechts-University (Kiel, Germany), and the Technical University of Denmark (Copenhagen, Denmark) is advancing revolutionary time-of-flight (TOF) camera technology. Using techniques borrowed from light detection and ranging (LIDAR), TOF cameras incorporate range-imaging sensors—low cost, compact devices that use either a phase measurement or optical-shutter technology that can be realized with either CMOS or CCD designs for acquiring real-time 3-D distance information useful for gaming, virtual reality, and computer-graphics applications.

Currently, laser triangulation techniques and stereo vision fall short of providing full-range, high-resolution distance information in real time at low cost. Manufacturers of TOF cameras such as PMDTechnologies (Siegen, Germany), MESA Imaging (Zurich, Switzerland), and Canesta (Sunnyvale, CA) use an intensity-modulation principle based on on-chip correlation (mixing) of the reflected signal from a modulated near-IR source illuminating the scene and a reference signal, while companies such as 3DV Systems (Yokneam, Israel) use an alternative TOF method based on measuring time of flight using a fast shutter technique with several exposures. Although TOF cameras display relatively large measurement errors compared to high-precision laser scanners, their small size, low cost, and high frame rates make them suitable for a variety of interactive 3-D applications. Contact Andreas Kolb at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

March 31, 2025
Enhance your remote sensing capabilities with Chroma's precision-engineered optical filters, designed for applications such as environmental monitoring, geospatial mapping, and...
March 31, 2025
Designed for compatibility with a wide range of systems, Chroma's UV filters are engineered to feature high transmission, superior out-of-band blocking, steep edge transitions...
March 31, 2025
Discover strategies to balance component performance and system design, reducing development time and costs while maximizing efficiency.
March 31, 2025
Explore the essential role of optical filters in enhancing Raman spectroscopy measurements including the various filter types and their applications in improving signal-to-noise...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!