Camera-Based Object Localization for Automated Coordinate Measuring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coordinate measuring machines face challenges in accurately and efficiently determining the position and orientation of complex objects, leading to cumbersome probe head movements and potential damage, especially in fully automated systems, due to the need for massive calculation power and complex algorithms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method using a camera to capture images of objects with reference information, such as barcodes or QR codes, to quickly and accurately determine the position and orientation of objects, allowing for precise control of the drive mechanism to approach measurement points, thereby reducing computational requirements and risk of damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photogrammetric methods with multiple cameras or complex algorithms are used to determine object position and orientation, then measurement accuracy is improved, but calculation power requirements and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A reference object with known geometry and distinctive features is introduced as an intermediary between the camera system and the target object. The reference object serves as a mediator that simplifies the calculation of camera position and orientation by providing easily identifiable reference points, thereby reducing computational complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly analyzing the complex target object, a simplified copy or representation is used through the reference object. The reference object creates a simplified geometric model that captures the essential information needed for camera localization without requiring complex algorithms to process the entire target object geometry
2Productivity
If the probe head moves quickly to measurement points, then productivity is improved, but the risk of damage to the probe head or workpiece increases due to impact
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system performs preliminary localization of the target object and determines its precise position and orientation before the probe head begins measurement. This advance information allows the probe head to approach measurement points along optimized paths at higher speeds without risk of collision, as the system already knows where the object is located and how it is oriented
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system provides continuous feedback about the object's position and orientation to the control system, which adjusts the probe head's movement in real-time. This feedback loop enables high-speed movement while maintaining safety margins, as the system can dynamically respond to any deviations in object position or unexpected obstacles
3Loss of time
If conventional measurement methods are used without reference information, then device simplicity is maintained, but the speed and accuracy of determining object coordinates deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Reference information is applied to the target object in advance of the measurement process. This preliminary marking or tagging of the object with identifiable features allows the camera system to quickly locate and analyze the object without requiring complex real-time processing, thereby reducing measurement time while keeping the added system complexity manageable
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables faster, more accurate, and reliable determination of object coordinates, reducing the risk of probe head or workpiece damage, while requiring less computational power and storage capacity, and allowing for precise localization in six degrees of freedom for enhanced measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
capturing at least one image of the object by means of at least one camera of the automated machine
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method to control a drive mechanism of an automated machine for approaching a point of interest on an object, the object having a surface on which a reference information of the object is provided as a one- or two-dimensional pattern, the method comprising capturing at least one image of the object by means of at least one camera of the automated machine, identifying the reference information in the at least one image, determining a position and orientation of the reference information relative to the at least one camera, determining a position and orientation of the object based on the determined position and orientation of the reference information, and controlling the drive mechanism based on the determined position and orientation of the object.