Time-multiplexed multi-zone rangefinder

Details Time-multiplexed multi-zone rangefinder Time-multiplexed multi-zone rangefinder

1991-06-21

1993-09-14

Buczinski, Stephen C.

Optics: measuring and testing

Range or remote distance finding

With photodetection

2502016, 354403, G01C 300, G01C 500, G03B 300

Patent

active

052453987

ABSTRACT:
A low cost, reflectivity insensitive rangefinder for performing time-multiplexed multi-zone auto-ranging comprises a light projecting means energizable for projecting a beam of light to illuminate a spot on an object in a scene. A linear array of N photosensitive elements views the scene and produces N photosignals representing the brightness of the scene, wherein each photosensitive element corresponds to one of N discrete subject distance zones, in sequence, from a far zone to a near zone. A control signal generating means generates process control signals for initiating intermediate zone ranging operations. A selection signal supply means supplies selection signals for effectuating a time-multiplexed multi-zone ranging operation. An analog multiplexer means, responsive to the selection signals, inputs the N photosignals, in parallel, and outputs selected time-multiplexed pairs of photosignals. Each pair of photosignals represents, in sequence, the scene brightness of an intermediate FAR zone and an intermediate NEAR zone. Signal processing electronics responsive to the pairs of photosignals and responsive to the process control signals periodically energizes the light projecting means and produces N-1 intermediate FAR/NEAR zone determinations. A final subject distance selection means selects a final subject distance zone from the intermediate zone determinations.

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