3D Camera Module Depth Map Boundary Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D image cameras face challenges in generating accurate and abundant depth maps due to the trade-off between the distance between camera modules, which affects the clarity of depth information and the accuracy of object boundaries in 3D images.
Innovation Solution
A 3D image photographing apparatus with two photographing units, each equipped with a phase difference image sensor, where the separation distance between them is greater than the phase difference of the pixels, allowing for the generation of first and second depth maps that are combined to create a third depth map with improved object boundary definition and extensive depth information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the distance between the two camera modules increases, then the depth map accurately expresses depth information, but the boundary of an object becomes unclear due to data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the depth mapping process into multiple passes: first capturing images with a large baseline distance for accurate depth measurement, then capturing additional images with overlapping regions to recover boundary information. This segmentation allows the system to address different aspects of depth mapping (accuracy vs. completeness) in separate stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs partial action by using only the necessary portion of captured images for each purpose. Images taken with large baseline are used specifically for depth measurement in regions where disparity is detectable, while overlapping images are used specifically for boundary recovery. This avoids the need to use all images for all purposes, optimizing the trade-off between depth accuracy and boundary completeness.
2Loss of information
If the distance between the two camera modules decreases, then the area where images overlap is reduced, but the depth map may not accurately express the distance to the object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photographing process into multiple stages with different camera module configurations. In the first stage, camera modules are positioned at a large distance to capture images for depth measurement. In the second stage, camera modules are repositioned to capture overlapping images for boundary recovery. This temporal segmentation allows optimization for each specific goal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the camera module configuration dynamic by adjusting the distance and positioning of camera modules based on the specific photographing requirements. The system can switch between different baseline distances and reposition camera modules during the photographing process, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to different depth mapping needs.
3Device complexity
If a single camera module configuration is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot generate both accurate depth information and clear object boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the depth mapping task into two distinct phases that can be executed with the same hardware: a depth measurement phase using large baseline configuration, and a boundary recovery phase using overlapping image configuration. This segmentation allows a single configurable system to achieve what would otherwise require multiple dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability to the camera module system, allowing the baseline distance and camera positions to be adjusted during operation. This dynamic capability enables a single device to adapt its configuration based on the specific photographing scenario, achieving high-quality depth maps without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An image photographing apparatus is provided. The image photographing apparatus includes a first photographing unit configured to photograph an image by using a phase difference image sensor, a second photographing unit configured to be spaced on a side of the first photographing unit, a controller configured to generate a first depth map by using a first image photographed by the first photographing unit and generate a second depth map by using a second image photographed by the second photographing unit, and an image processor configured to generate a three-dimensional (3D) image by using the first depth map and the second depth map.