ToF Sensor

A Time of Flight Cameras, also known as a depth camera or 3D camera, is a range imaging camera system that employs time-of-flight techniques to resolve the distance between the camera and the subject for each point of the image. This is achieved by measuring the round trip time of an artificial light signal provided by a 940nm infrared Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL). A ToF Sensor system, often classified as a Class 1 laser product, provides high precision depth measurements, making it an essential component in various applications, including people counting systems and 3D depth sensing.

Compared with LED, VCSEL technology offers high output power, superior conversion efficiency, high-quality beams, accuracy, miniaturization, low power consumption, and enhanced reliability. These features make depth cameras integrated with ToF technology, along with RGB cameras, ideal for capturing detailed 3D images at depth, enabling advanced functionalities in modern imaging systems.

A time-of-flight camera (ToF) is an advanced tool for measuring distances with high accuracy, providing essential depth information for a wide range of applications. It works by emitting infrared light sources and measuring the time it takes for the light to return, allowing it to capture precise depth data for each point in the image. This real-time capability enhances camera operations, enabling systems to process depth information and create 3D models instantly.

ToF cameras are particularly valuable for mobile robots, where they help in navigation and obstacle avoidance by accurately mapping the surrounding environment. With their large field of view, these cameras support comprehensive machine vision applications, including people counting and spatial recognition. The integration of RGB cameras further enriches the system, providing color details alongside depth, creating a richer, more accurate visual representation. This technology is crucial for tasks requiring real-time 3D reconstructions and precise environmental analysis.