Camera Calibration Device Using Distinctive Marker Patterns
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera system calibration processes in motor vehicles are complex, error-prone, and time-intensive, requiring manual interventions and multiple sensors, making them costly and inefficient for recalibration during maintenance or repair.
Innovation Solution
A calibration device comprising a carrier element with marker elements and a connecting element that can be easily attached to the vehicle's chassis or wheels, using a marker element with distinctive shapes or patterns to facilitate accurate positioning and alignment through camera images, allowing for reliable determination of calibration data by combining data from multiple camera views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standard calibration elements are measured with complex position and orientation methods using multiple sensors and manual interventions, then calibration accuracy can be achieved, but the procedure becomes time-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems (multiple sensors and manual intervention systems) with a simplified optical system using camera images and image processing algorithms. The calibration element is designed with distinctive marker patterns that can be automatically detected and evaluated from images, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement devices and manual operations while maintaining calibration accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified visual copy of the calibration element through camera imaging, where the distinctive marker patterns on the calibration element are captured as 2D images. These images serve as copies that contain all necessary information for calibration, replacing the need for direct complex physical measurements. The image processing extracts calibration data from these visual copies efficiently
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and manual interventions are used to measure calibration elements, then position and orientation can be determined, but the procedure becomes error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces multiple physical sensors and manual intervention processes with an automated image-based measurement system. The camera captures images of the calibration element, and computer vision algorithms automatically determine position and orientation, eliminating human error and reducing variability associated with manual operations and multiple sensor integrations
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration element incorporates distinctive marker patterns with specific colors and geometric arrangements that are easily distinguishable in camera images. These visual features provide high-contrast, easily detectable targets for automatic image processing, improving the reliability of position and orientation determination compared to subtle physical measurements
3Measurement precision
If a complex calibration procedure is implemented, then accurate calibration can be achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive complex measurement systems with affordable standard camera equipment and software-based image processing. The calibration element itself is designed to be simple and inexpensive to manufacture, using basic geometric patterns that can be printed or attached easily, thereby reducing both equipment costs and manufacturing costs while maintaining calibration accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration element is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and potentially replaced. The use of basic geometric patterns and standard materials makes the calibration element itself low-cost, and the simplified procedure reduces the need for expensive specialized equipment, overall reducing calibration costs
4Measurement precision
If manual interventions are used for calibration, then complex measurements can be performed, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual intervention processes with automated computer vision and image processing systems. The camera automatically captures images of the calibration element, and software algorithms automatically extract position and orientation data, eliminating the need for operators to perform complex manual measurements while maintaining high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs self-calibration through automated image capture and processing. The distinctive marker patterns on the calibration element are automatically detected and evaluated by the system without requiring manual measurement steps, making the calibration process self-executing and operationally simple
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration device for calibrating at least one camera system of a motor vehicle includes at least one calibration element having at least one carrier element and at least one marker element, where the marker element is or can be arranged on the carrier element and at least one connecting element, where the calibration element is or can be arranged on the motor vehicle using the connecting element. A motor vehicle and methods of using the calibration device are also described.