System and method for calibrating camera position in a computer vision-based self-service checkout terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional self-service checkout terminals require precise camera positioning using separate acrylic templates for each camera, which is cumbersome and costly, and there is a need for a more efficient and cost-effective calibration method.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for camera position calibration using a computing device that combines video output with an overlay image file to adjust camera orientation, eliminating the need for separate acrylic templates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate acrylic templates are used for each camera calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate acrylic templates into a single comprehensive calibration template that contains calibration patterns for all cameras. This single template includes multiple distinct calibration zones, each designed for a specific camera's field of view, allowing all cameras to be calibrated using one unified tool rather than managing multiple separate templates.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration template is designed with multi-functionality to serve all cameras in the system. It contains multiple calibration patterns that can be used by different cameras simultaneously, making a single template universal for the entire camera array rather than requiring camera-specific templates.
2Measurement precision
If separate acrylic templates are used for each camera, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the calibration function for multiple cameras into one integrated template, eliminating the need for technicians to switch between multiple templates during calibration. The single template presents all necessary calibration patterns in one accessible location, streamlining the calibration workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
While unified into a single template, the calibration patterns are segmented into distinct zones for different cameras. Each camera has its own designated calibration region within the template, allowing technicians to easily identify and use the appropriate section for each camera without confusion.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate acrylic templates are used for each camera, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple camera calibration templates into one single acrylic template, significantly reducing the total amount of acrylic material required. Instead of manufacturing and managing multiple separate templates, only one template needs to be produced, stored, and handled.
Solution Approach 2:
The single acrylic template is designed to serve multiple cameras simultaneously, making it a universal calibration tool for the entire camera system. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for duplicate templates for different cameras, reducing material consumption.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for camera position calibration in a terminal. A camera has a predefined expected orientation with respect to a scan zone for the terminal such that a target zone (the scan zone or an outline thereof) appears in a predefined position within a field of view of the camera. The video output signal from the camera is combined by a processor with an overlay image file. The overlay image file has a nontransparent section and a transparent section corresponding to the predefined position of the target zone within the field of view of the camera. The video output signal is combined with the overlay image file so that the display shows an actual orientation of the camera with respect to the target zone overlaid with the overlay image file. This allows the position of the camera to be adjusted to match the predefined expected orientation.