Camera Alignment Using Virtual Model Target Markers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning multiple cameras for three-dimensional object measurement are complex and time-consuming, especially when dealing with diverse objects of varying shapes and sizes, requiring intricate calibration and setup adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method involving projecting a pattern onto a real object's surface, using a projector, and capturing it with cameras, where a three-dimensional virtual model is used to automatically determine reference information for each camera, including identification and location data, to facilitate camera alignment through computational means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of cameras are used to measure diverse three-dimensional objects, then measurement coverage and accuracy are improved, but the complexity of aligning and calibrating the cameras increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining target markers on the virtual model before actual measurement. These markers are automatically projected onto the real object, providing predetermined reference points that guide camera alignment. This pre-prepared framework eliminates the need for complex real-time calibration of each camera, as the system already has a established reference system in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a virtual model that replicates the geometry of the real object. Target markers are defined on this virtual copy, and their positions are automatically transferred to the real object through projection. This virtual copy serves as a template that guides the physical camera alignment process, simplifying the complexity of directly calibrating multiple cameras on diverse objects.
2Measurement precision
If cameras are manually aligned and calibrated for each measurement task, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but setup time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated alignment assistance. The system automatically projects pre-defined target markers onto the object and provides alignment guidance information without requiring manual intervention for each camera. The cameras can self-align by detecting these projected markers, eliminating time-consuming manual calibration while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by providing real-time alignment guidance information to operators or automated systems. The system monitors camera positions relative to the projected target markers and provides corrective guidance until proper alignment is achieved. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures accurate calibration while minimizing setup time through automated guidance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the camera arrangement is adapted for each specific object, then measurement suitability is improved, but the complexity of reconfiguration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the camera arrangement adaptable through software control rather than fixed physical configurations. The system can dynamically adjust camera selection, positioning, and alignment based on the specific object being measured. The virtual model allows flexible reconfiguration of measurement parameters without physical reassembly, enabling the system to adapt to diverse objects while maintaining simple operational procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for aligning a specified number of real cameras (18) in order to measure a real three-dimensional object and to a corresponding device. The device has cameras and a pattern in a specified coordinate system, wherein in order to carry out the measurement, the pattern is projected onto the surface of the real object by means of at least one projector (15), and the pattern is at least partly captured by each real camera of the specified number of real cameras. Additionally, a three-dimensional virtual model of an ideal object (12') which corresponds to the real object is provided. In order to reduce the complexity when aligning the plurality of cameras, instructions and/or control information for aligning each camera is ascertained using a plurality of target markings (23) on the surface of the ideal object in the three-dimensional virtual model, and the instructions and/or control information are provided on a specified interface.