Depth Map Generation Device with Multiple Image Capture Pairs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing depth map generation devices have limited working ranges, which can result in invalid areas when objects move outside the captured range, leading to incomplete or inaccurate depth mapping.

Innovation Solution

A depth map generation device with multiple image capture pairs and a processor that generates and blends multiple depth maps, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the working range based on object movement, enabling the creation of a larger effective depth map range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If a single image capture pair is used to generate a depth map, then the device complexity is low, but the working range of the depth map is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking range of depth mapVSAvoidnumber of image capture pairs
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the overall depth mapping task into multiple segments by using multiple image capture pairs, each responsible for capturing a specific baseline's depth information. This segmentation allows each capture pair to focus on a specific working range while collectively covering a larger area

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges multiple depth maps generated from different image capture pairs into a single comprehensive depth map. The processor combines the depth information from multiple baselines, expanding the overall working range while maintaining device functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Area of stationary object

If multiple depth maps are generated and blended, then the working range is expanded, but the data rate increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking range of depth mapVSAvoiddata rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts only the necessary depth information from multiple depth maps based on object position and motion characteristics. Instead of processing and transmitting all depth map data, it selectively extracts relevant portions, reducing the overall data rate while maintaining expanded working range

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs partial blending of depth maps by selectively combining only the necessary portions based on object location and motion. This partial action approach expands the working range where needed without processing the entire dataset, thereby controlling data rate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the depth map generation device uses a fixed baseline configuration, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot dynamically adapt to object motion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic adjustment of working rangeVSAvoidprocessor control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic baseline selection by allowing the processor to switch between different image capture pairs based on detected object motion. This dynamic configuration enables the depth map generation device to adapt its working range in real-time without physical reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from object position and motion detection to dynamically adjust which image capture pairs are active. The processor receives feedback about object characteristics and automatically selects the appropriate baseline configuration, providing adaptability through a control loop

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11652978B2Depth map generation device
Publication Date: 2023.05.16 EYS3D MICROELECTRONICS CO
  • US11652978B2 patent drawing
  • US11652978B2 patent drawing
  • US11652978B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A depth map generation device includes a plurality of image capture pairs, a depth map generation module, and a processor. The depth map generation module is coupled to the plurality of image capture pairs for generating a plurality of depth maps corresponding to the plurality of image capture pairs according to the image pairs captured by the plurality of image capture pairs. The processor is coupled to the depth map generation module for optionally outputting a depth map of the plurality of depth maps, or outputting a blending depth map composed of a part or all of the plurality of depth maps.