Frequently Asked Questions

The method uses a pattern projector and an astigmatic lens placed in front of an image sensor to generate a depth map. Circular spots are projected and collected as astigmatic spots at the image sensor, and the image is decoded using methods like the Hough transform.

Distance is determined by the ratio between the long and short axis of the astigmatic spot shape, which varies with the distance to the object.

The method is not sensitive to multi-path interference, less sensitive to changes in object reflection/scattering or ambient light, can be used without a projected pattern for certain applications, and allows for a compact system design.

The method relies on changes in spot shape rather than spot intensity to determine distance, making it less sensitive to ambient light changes.

By adding astigmatism to the image collecting objective lens, the shape of the point spread function (PSF) becomes dependent on the distance to the object, with the eccentricity of the elliptical PSF varying with distance.

The method belongs to the 'Depth from Defocus' class of rangefinding methods, which are based on picture analysis rather than light phase shifts, reducing sensitivity to multi-path error.

Yes, for certain applications, the system may be used without a projected pattern, enhancing its versatility.

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