3D Reconstruction Using Multi-Depth Camera Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing three-dimensional reconstruction methods are inefficient and lack precision, particularly for reconstructing the top and bottom of target objects, making them unsuitable for small businesses or home users due to high costs and limited applicability.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that utilize two depth cameras to obtain and merge depth maps with three-dimensional models, updating signed distance functions to improve reconstruction accuracy, and employing an iterative closest point algorithm for alignment, enabling improved reconstruction of object surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single depth camera is used for three-dimensional reconstruction, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of the top and bottom of the target object deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction precision of top and bottomVSAvoidnumber of photographic devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the imaging task into multiple segments by using multiple depth cameras positioned at different locations. Each camera captures depth maps of specific regions (top, bottom, sides) of the target object, and these segmented views are then integrated to form a complete three-dimensional model, thereby improving the measurement precision of previously difficult-to-capture areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-viewpoint imaging system to a multi-viewpoint system by adding cameras at different spatial positions and orientations. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous capture of top and bottom surfaces that are invisible from a single viewpoint, directly addressing the precision problem.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple depth cameras are used to improve reconstruction precision, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction precision of top and bottomVSAvoidnumber of photographic devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the multi-camera system with universal functionality where each depth camera serves multiple purposes: capturing depth information, providing geometric constraints, and contributing to both top and bottom surface reconstruction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment for each function, thereby managing device complexity while improving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a computational approach. Instead of using mechanically complex adjustable single-camera systems, it uses multiple fixed cameras with their positions and orientations determined through calibration and optimization algorithms, simplifying the mechanical system while achieving better reconstruction precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If traditional single-camera methods are used, then the device cost is low, but the productivity of three-dimensional reconstruction deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of photographic devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous three-dimensional reconstruction by having multiple cameras simultaneously capture depth information from different viewpoints. This parallel data acquisition eliminates the need for sequential single-camera sweeps, significantly improving reconstruction productivity while the automated alignment and merging processes manage the complexity of multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS11042973B2Method and device for three-dimensional reconstruction
Publication Date: 2021.06.22 ARCSOFT CORP LTD
  • US11042973B2 patent drawing
  • US11042973B2 patent drawing
  • US11042973B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure provides a method and device for three-dimensional reconstruction, applied to the field of image processing. The method includes: obtaining a first depth map, which is photographed by a first photographic device, and obtaining a second depth map, which is photographed by a second photographic device; merging the first depth map with a first three-dimensional model according to a position of the first photographic device to obtain a second three-dimensional model; and merging the second depth map with the second three-dimensional model according to a position of the second photographic device to obtain a third three-dimensional model.