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SamsungGranted patentCameras & imagingInterest 6/10

Samsung patents depth map method using changing light patterns

Patent drawing
Patent drawing from the official filing.

This patent describes a way to create a 3D map of an object's distance by shining light at it in different patterns over time. The device takes photos of both the object and the light source, then uses these images to calculate how far away the object is.

Why it mattersThis technique could help cameras in phones or robots understand the 3D world around them more accurately, which is useful for features like object tracking or augmented reality.

In the filing’s own words

A method of generating a depth map corresponding to input data includes providing light to a target object in a plurality of patterns that change over time, obtaining a plurality of captured images respectively corresponding to the plurality of patterns, by photographing the target object to which the light is provided, obtaining the input data by preprocessing the plurality of captured images and generating the depth map based on the input data.

What exactly they claim (claim 1)

1. A method of generating a depth map corresponding to input data, the method comprising: providing light to a target object in a plurality of patterns that change over time; obtaining a plurality of captured images respectively corresponding to the plurality of patterns, by photographing the target object to which the light is provided; obtaining a plurality of illumination images respectively corresponding to the plurality of patterns by photographing a light-emitting device configured to provide the light; obtaining the input data by preprocessing the plurality of captured images and the plurality of illumination images; and generating the depth map based on the input data.

Facts

Company
Samsung (SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.)
Official title
Electronic device for generating depth map and operation method thereof
Patent number
US12749207B2
Application number
18233611
Filed
Aug 14, 2023
Granted
Sep 29, 2026
Inventors
4
Claims
18

Classified under

G06T 7/507 Physics & computingG06T 7/55 Physics & computingG06T 2207/10028 Physics & computing
Read the full filing (official PDF) ↗ Open in the Patent Tracker

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Summaries are simplified from the filing’s own abstract and first claim. A patent filing is not a product announcement.
Patent data and drawings: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Nebula is not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPTO.