Single Camera Distance Measurement Using Iris Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the distance between an image capture device and an object require multiple devices or known objects, making them costly and inefficient, especially when only a single image capture device is available.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single image capture device, such as a camera, to estimate the distance by determining the ratio of pixels per unit of measure based on the diameter of the iris in an image, allowing for the calculation of object size, distance between objects, and movement speed without the need for additional hardware or known objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple devices or known objects are used to determine distance, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single image capture device determines distance measurements autonomously by analyzing its own captured images. The device uses the known size of the iris in the image to calculate pixel-to-unit ratios, enabling self-measurement without requiring external reference objects or multiple devices. This self-service approach resolves the contradiction by achieving accurate distance measurement while minimizing hardware complexity.
2Measurement precision
If laser triangulation or two cameras are used, then measurement precision is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential measurement capability from complex systems like laser triangulation or multi-camera setups. By isolating the key function of distance measurement and implementing it through a single image capture device analyzing iris size, the system achieves the same measurement precision at a fraction of the cost and complexity. This extraction principle eliminates unnecessary hardware while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Device complexity
If a single image capture device is used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the iris as an intermediary reference object with known dimensions. By using the iris size as a mediator between the image capture device and the measurement process, the system establishes a reliable reference that enables accurate distance calculations. This intermediary approach allows a single device to achieve precise measurements by leveraging the known characteristics of the iris rather than requiring multiple devices or complex hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods and apparatus for making measurements using a single image capture device.