Scannerless 3D imaging sensors

This contribution describes the research activity on the development of different smart pixel topologies aimed at three-dimensional (3D) vision applications exploiting the multiple-pulse indirect time-of-flight (TOF) and standard direct TOF techniques. The proposed approaches allow for the realization of scannerless laser ranging systems capable of fast collection of 3D data sets, as required in a growing number of applications like, automotive, security, surveillance and robotic guidance. Single channel approach, as well as matrix-organized sensors, will be described, facing the demanding constraints of specific applications, like the high dynamic range capability and the background immunity. Real time range (3D) and intensity (2D) imaging of non-cooperative targets, also in presence of strong background illumination, has been successfully performed in the 2m-9m range with a precision better than 5% and an accuracy of about 1%.