Automated Camera Calibration via Movable Marker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems face challenges in calibrating internal parameters of imaging apparatuses disposed in predetermined positions, particularly in venues like sporting events, where manual placement of calibration markers is time-consuming and labor-intensive, leading to inaccurate three-dimensional space reconstruction and deteriorated free viewpoint video quality.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system that includes a movement controller to position a movable object with a marker within the imaging area of the apparatus, an imaging controller to capture the marker, and a calibrator to adjust internal parameters using the captured images, allowing for automated calibration without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual placement of calibration markers is used, then calibration can be performed, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The movable object automatically positions itself to present the marker to the imaging apparatus for calibration, eliminating the need for manual placement. The object moves autonomously into the imaging area and maintains positioning without human intervention, allowing the system to perform calibration automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical placement of markers with an automated movable object that can be controlled by software or automated systems. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated control mechanisms significantly reduces calibration time and labor requirements.
2Measurement precision
If manual placement of calibration markers is used, then calibration can be performed, but it requires labor-intensive operations
Solution Approach 1:
The movable object performs self-positioning to present the marker for calibration without requiring manual handling. The automated positioning and presentation of the marker simplifies the operator's task to merely initiating the calibration process, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of placing and positioning markers are replaced with automated control of the movable object. This substitution transforms a labor-intensive manual task into an automated process that requires minimal human intervention.
3Reliability
If calibration is not performed accurately, then three-dimensional space reconstruction accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus captures images of the marker on the movable object, and the system uses this visual feedback to calculate and adjust calibration parameters. The feedback loop ensures accurate determination of the movable object's position and orientation, which directly improves three-dimensional space reconstruction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging and computational methods to achieve precise calibration, replacing potentially less accurate manual measurement methods. The automated image-based calibration system provides more consistent and reliable measurement precision for maintaining three-dimensional reconstruction accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A calibrator for a camera includes a controlling circuit, a photographing circuit, a calculating circuit, and an instructing circuit. The controlling circuit is configured to control a movable body to move into a shooting area of the camera. A marker is provided on the movable body for calibration of the camera. The photographing circuit is configured to control the camera to photograph the marker. The calculating circuit is configured to calculate at least one parameter of the camera based on the photographed marker. The instructing circuit is configured to transmit the at least one parameter to the camera to calibrate the camera.