Gain-modulated Axi-Vision Camera (high speed high-accuracy depth-mapping camera)

We describe a novel real-time depth-mapping camera, the Gainmodulated Axi-Vision Camera, where pulsed laser light is combined with a gain-modulated camera. Depth resolution of 2.4 mm was obtained, which is higher than the resolution of the previously reported depth-mapping Axi- Vision Camera. Pixel-by-pixel depth information of 768 x 493 pixels is obtainable at one half of the video frame rate (15 Hz). A short movie clip is attached that illustrates the depth measurement operation. The merits of the Gain-modulated Axi-Vision Camera are high-resolution, real-time operation, and a relatively simple optical system. These merits primarily arise from the ultra-fast exposure time using a pulsed laser diode.