3D Sensor System Parallel Linear Pattern Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional three-dimensional scanning using the triangulation method is limited by the need to project a single linear pattern, which restricts point-determining speed and efficiency, making it unsuitable for applications requiring high scanning speed.

Innovation Solution

A three-dimensional sensor system that projects multiple linear patterns simultaneously, using at least one pattern projector and multiple cameras to capture two-dimensional images, extract two-dimensional line sets, generate candidate three-dimensional point sets, and verify authentic points based on triangulation and epipolar constraints.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single linear pattern is projected using the triangulation method, then the hardware remains uncomplicated and cost-effective, but the point-determining speed and scanning efficiency are greatly restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepoint-determining speedVSAvoidprojection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the projection task by dividing it into multiple linear patterns that are projected simultaneously. Instead of projecting one line at a time, the system projects multiple linear patterns in parallel, allowing multiple sets of three-dimensional points to be determined simultaneously, thereby significantly improving point-determining speed while maintaining relatively simple hardware through the use of standard projectors and cameras.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If multiple linear patterns are projected simultaneously, then the scanning speed improves, but image mismatch occurs and effective three-dimensional data cannot be obtained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning speedVSAvoiddata accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system projects multiple linear patterns simultaneously, captures images with multiple cameras, extracts two-dimensional line sets, generates candidate three-dimensional point sets, and then verifies these candidates to select authentic points. This closed-loop process with verification and selection ensures that even when multiple patterns are projected simultaneously, the system can identify and correct mismatches, maintaining data accuracy while achieving high scanning speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If traditional triangulation method with single linear pattern projection is used, then the hardware remains simple, but the scanning efficiency is low and not satisfactory for high-speed applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning efficiencyVSAvoidtime for point determination
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the principle of continuity by projecting multiple linear patterns simultaneously and capturing all necessary images in one synchronized operation. This allows the system to continuously acquire multiple sets of three-dimensional points without the sequential delays inherent in traditional single-pattern methods. The parallel projection and capture process eliminates idle time between pattern projections, significantly improving scanning efficiency and reducing the time required for point determination while maintaining hardware simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 significantly improves point-determining efficiency and scanning speed by recognizing multiple projected patterns, allowing for the calculation of three-dimensional point-cloud data on the object's surface, outperforming traditional single-line scanning methods.

Implementation Method 1

The pattern projector is configured to project at least two linear patterns simultaneously

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Implementation Method 2

The at least two cameras are configured to capture a two-dimensional image of a scanned object simultaneously

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

The three-dimensional point-cloud generator is configured to generate a candidate three-dimensional point set based on the two-dimensional line set

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTriangulation: Parallax

Data Source

PatentUS11060853B2Three-dimensional sensor system and three-dimensional data acquisition method
Publication Date: 2021.07.13 SCANTECH (HANGZHOU) CO LTD
  • US11060853B2 patent drawing
  • US11060853B2 patent drawing
  • US11060853B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A three-dimensional sensor system includes three cameras, a projector, and a processor. The projector simultaneously projects at least two linear patterns on the surface of an object. The three cameras synchronously capture a first two-dimensional (2D) image, a second 2D image, and a third 2D image of the object, respectively. The processor extracts a first set and a second set of 2D lines from the at least two linear patterns on the first 2D image and the second 2D image, respectively; generates a candidate set of three-dimensional (3D) points from the first set and the second set of 2D lines; and selects, from the candidate set of 3D points, an authentic set of 3D points that matches a projection contour line of the object surface by: performing data verification on the candidate set of 3D points using the third 2D image, and filtering the candidate set of 3D points.