Computer Vision Camera Unit Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer vision systems are complex, fragile, and expensive due to alignment and cabling challenges, particularly in environments with mechanical disturbances and temperature variations, limiting their widespread adoption.
Innovation Solution
A computer vision camera unit with a robust mechanical construction featuring automatic self-alignment and a single printed-circuit board for imager chips and electronics, using lens-clamping structures and an automatic calibration procedure to maintain alignment and reduce costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional stereo vision systems are used, then alignment precision can be maintained initially, but mechanical disturbances and temperature variations cause alignment drift and system fragility
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic self-alignment using image processing algorithms that detect feature points in captured images and compute transformation matrices to correct misalignment between left and right camera views, eliminating the need for manual realignment after mechanical disturbances
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors alignment status by processing images from both cameras and uses feedback from image feature analysis to dynamically adjust alignment parameters, ensuring stable operation despite temperature variations and mechanical shocks
2Speed
If high-speed cabling and connectors are used for data transmission, then data transfer speed is improved, but the system becomes more vulnerable to mechanical disturbances and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the image processing and alignment correction functionality directly into the camera module itself, reducing the need for complex external cabling and high-speed data transmission connections that are vulnerable to mechanical disturbances
3Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment procedures are used, then initial setup precision can be achieved, but the system becomes more complex and requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs alignment correction through image processing algorithms that compute transformation matrices based on detected feature points, eliminating the need for manual alignment procedures and reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-computes transformation matrices and alignment parameters based on initial calibration, then applies these corrections automatically during operation, avoiding the need for complex real-time manual adjustments
4Reliability
If ruggedized components are used to withstand environmental stressors, then reliability under mechanical disturbance improves, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment maintenance mechanisms with software-based image processing and computational correction methods, achieving ruggedization through intelligence rather than through expensive mechanical hardening of all components
Data Source
AI summary
A computer vision camera unit comprising first and second pairs, of image capture assemblies, both of which have an approximately same orientation to a first axis. The first and second pairs are optically focused to capture first and second fields of view that, at least, overlap each other. Providing the first and second pairs with imager chips of differing light sensitivity permits high dynamic range to be realized. Having the second field of view within the first field of view permits specialization, between the first and second pairs, similar to the roles of peripheral and foveal vision, found in biological stereo vision systems. The image capture assemblies can be organized in a rectangular configuration that implies third and fourth pairs, orthogonal to the first and second pairs. The orthogonal but interlocking nature, of the first and second pairs in relation to the third and fourth pairs, enables an autocalibration technique.