3D Coordinate Calibration for Image Capture Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera calibration methods are prone to human error, lack effective diagnostics, and fail to fully specify the real world coordinate system and scene information, leading to uncertainty and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system that includes a controller and light emitter to determine and emit a three-dimensional coordinate position code, allowing an image capture device to calibrate intrinsic and extrinsic parameters automatically, with optional robotic assistance to reduce human error and provide scene information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a checkerboard target or moving distinctive point is used for calibration, then camera calibration can be performed, but human error increases and diagnostic capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device performs self-calibration by automatically determining its own 3D coordinate position and emitting encoded light signals. The device serves itself as both the calibration target and the measuring instrument, eliminating the need for human operators to manually position targets or interpret calibration patterns, thereby removing human error from the process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning of calibration targets with an automated electronic system. The calibration device uses light emitters (LEDs) that encode 3D coordinate information directly in light signals, substituting the mechanical checkerboard target system with an optical-electronic self-measuring system that automatically provides precise spatial information
2Ease of operation
If manual input is required to specify the real world coordinate system, then the coordinate system can be defined, but extra work and sources of error are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device automatically determines its own 3D coordinate position using its internal controller and position sensing capabilities. The device self-specifies the real world coordinate system by emitting light signals that encode its own spatial coordinates, eliminating the need for manual input to define the coordinate system origin and orientation
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device pre-encodes its 3D coordinate position information into light signals before emission. The coordinate system specification is performed in advance by the device itself, so that when the image capture device receives the signals, the coordinate information is already prepared and available, eliminating subsequent manual setup steps
3Adaptability or versatility
If current calibration approaches are used, then basic calibration can be achieved, but scene information such as ground plane location is not specified
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it determines its own 3D position, encodes this information in light signals, and provides scene information including ground plane location. The same device that performs self-calibration also characterizes the environment, making the calibration system versatile without requiring separate specialized equipment for each function
4Ease of operation
If unskilled workers perform calibration tasks, then calibration can be attempted, but uncertainty and wasted time result
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device is self-explanatory and self-guiding through its automated operation. It automatically determines its position, encodes the information, and emits signals that directly convey calibration data. The system requires no skilled interpretation or manual adjustment, making it equally easy to operate for unskilled workers while eliminating the uncertainty and time waste associated with human judgment
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device provides immediate feedback by emitting light signals that directly encode its 3D coordinate position. The image capture device receives these signals and automatically processes the calibration data. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates the uncertainty that arises when unskilled workers must manually interpret calibration patterns or judge positioning accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides accurate and efficient camera calibration with automated diagnostics, reducing human error and the need for manual input, and enables precise specification of the real world coordinate system and scene information.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitter that emits a code to an image capture device. The code indicates the three-dimensional coordinate position of the calibration device
Implementation Method 2
an image capture sensor that captures an image of light emitted from a calibration device. The light includes a code that indicates a real world three-dimensional coordinate position of the calibration device
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional coordinate position of a calibration device is determined. Further, a code is emitted to an image capture device. The code indicates the three-dimensional coordinate position of the calibration device. In addition, an image of light emitted from the calibration device is captured. The light includes the code. An image capture device three-dimensional coordinate position of the calibration device is calibrated according to the real world three-dimensional coordinate position of the calibration device indicated by the code.