3D Ball Tracking Using Mobile Camera Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for tracking the trajectory of a ball require a dedicated position-fixed camera, leading to high introduction costs and limited convenience due to fixed zoom magnification and focus position.
Innovation Solution
A computer system that uses a processor and storage unit to estimate three-dimensional coordinates of a spherical object using still images and camera angle of view or focal length information, without the need for a dedicated position-fixed camera, by calculating direction vectors and employing machine learning-based estimation models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated position-fixed camera is used to track the ball trajectory, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and introduction cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive dedicated position-fixed cameras with ordinary mobile terminal cameras that can be readily available to users. The system uses standard cameras in smartphones or tablets instead of specialized tracking cameras, significantly reducing equipment costs while maintaining functional capability through software-based processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual three-dimensional space that replicates the physical ball trajectory environment. By constructing a virtual coordinate system and mapping real-world ball positions into this virtual space, the system achieves accurate trajectory tracking without requiring complex physical camera setups, effectively copying the essential tracking function in a software-based virtual environment
2Measurement precision
If a dedicated position-fixed camera is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to fixed zoom and focus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static camera setup into a dynamic system where the mobile terminal's camera can freely adjust zoom magnification and focus positions. The system adapts to different shooting scenarios by allowing users to change camera settings dynamically, and the image processing algorithm compensates for these changes to maintain tracking accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent explicitly incorporates camera parameters (zoom magnification, focus position, angle of view) as variable inputs to the image processing system. By receiving and utilizing these parameter changes from the mobile terminal camera, the system maintains accurate three-dimensional coordinate estimation even when camera settings are adjusted between shots
3Ease of operation
If multiple camera parameters (zoom, focus) are made adjustable, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the image processing unit receives camera parameters (zoom magnification, focus position, angle of view) as input and uses this information to adjust the three-dimensional coordinate calculation. This feedback loop ensures that even when camera settings change, the system can compensate and maintain accurate trajectory measurement by adapting its processing based on the current camera state
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of direction vectors and three-dimensional coordinates by receiving camera parameters in advance. The system pre-processes the image data with knowledge of the camera's specific settings (zoom, focus, angle of view) before trajectory analysis, enabling accurate measurement despite variable camera configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A reception unit 26a receives a still image of a spherical object captured by a camera 52 and information on the angle of view or the focal length of the camera 52 having captured the object, transmitted from a terminal (e.g., mobile communication terminal 50) including the camera 52. A calculation unit 28a calculates coordinates of four corners of a rectangle 210 enclosing the object from the still image of the object received by the reception unit 26a, and calculates direction vectors extending toward the object from the focal point of the lens of the camera 52, from the calculated coordinates of the four corners of the rectangle 210 enclosing the object and the angle of view or the focal length of the camera 52. An estimation unit 30a estimates three-dimensional coordinates of the center of the object, based on the direction vectors calculated by the calculation unit 28a.