Depth Camera Calibration Platform With Rotational Alignment Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of depth camera calibration is compromised due to the tilt of calibration surfaces and uneven placement of calibration equipment, leading to errors in depth data measurement.
Innovation Solution
A calibration device with a base, support column, and crossbar that allows for rotational adjustments of the depth camera's optical axis to ensure perpendicular alignment with the calibration surface, utilizing a distance sensor and programmable drivers for precise positioning and compensation angles to correct deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the depth camera is placed before a calibration surface for calibration, then the calibration process can be performed, but the accuracy is low due to tilt of the calibration surface or unequal placement of calibration equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device incorporates rotational joints that allow the depth camera to be dynamically adjusted to different angles and orientations. This enables the camera to adapt to slight tilts or misalignments of the calibration surface, maintaining calibration accuracy without requiring extremely precise initial placement. The dynamic adjustment capability compensates for placement errors automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a distance sensor to measure the actual distance between the depth camera and the calibration surface, providing feedback information. This measured distance is then used to calculate and determine the appropriate rotation angle for the depth camera, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures accurate calibration even when the initial placement is not perfect.
2Measurement precision
If the light axis of the depth camera must be perpendicular to the calibration surface, then calibration can be performed, but external interference such as floor vibrations affects measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device uses rotational joints with damping mechanisms that allow the system to dynamically respond to vibrations. When floor vibrations occur, the damping mechanism absorbs the shock and prevents it from being transmitted to the depth camera, maintaining measurement stability. The system can also dynamically adjust the camera angle to compensate for vibration-induced positional changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates damping mechanisms in advance to cushion against external vibrations before they affect the measurement. The damping elements are pre-installed in the rotational joints to absorb and dissipate vibration energy, protecting the depth camera and calibration process from the harmful effects of floor vibrations.
3Measurement precision
If rotational adjustment mechanisms are added to ensure perpendicular alignment, then calibration accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device is divided into modular segments: a base, a support column with rotational joints, and a mounting platform. Each segment can be independently adjusted and assembled. The rotational joints are separated into different axes (first rotational joint for horizontal adjustment, second rotational joint for vertical adjustment), allowing for precise alignment while maintaining modular simplicity in the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational joints serve multiple functions: they enable alignment adjustment, provide vibration damping, and allow for both horizontal and vertical angle corrections. The distance sensor not only measures distance for calibration but also provides feedback for the rotational adjustment mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
Enhances the accuracy of depth camera calibration by ensuring precise alignment and reducing external interference, such as floor vibrations, thereby improving the reliability of depth data measurement.
Implementation Method 1
A time of flight (TOF) depth camera mainly includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is used to emit high-frequency modulated near-infrared light. After the infrared light is reflected by a surface of an object, the receiver receives the reflected light and calculates depth information according to a phase difference or time difference between the emitted light and the received light.
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration device includes a base, a support column coupled to the base and extending in a first direction, and a crossbar coupled to the support column. The crossbar includes a positioning base and a carrier. The positioning base is fixed to the support column. The carrier is coupled to the positioning base and rotatable about a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The carrier includes a distance sensor and a calibration platform. The calibration platform mounts a depth camera. The carrier is configured to rotate about the second direction to rotate an optical axis of the depth camera in a first calibration plane defined by the first direction and a third direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.