Distance Measurement Using Reference Line Vanishing Point
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance measurement devices face challenges in measuring distances between an image capturing unit and a target object when a known pattern is unavailable or when there is no subject in contact with the skyline, limiting their accuracy and applicability.
Innovation Solution
A distance measurement device comprising an image capturing unit and a calculation unit that captures images including a reference line and a target object, processing the images to obtain reference line angle and target object angle information, and calculating the distance using height information, allowing for distance measurement without relying on known patterns or subjects in contact with the skyline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a known pattern (crosswalk) is used as reference for distance measurement, then measurement can be performed in standard conditions, but the device cannot measure distance when the known pattern is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential geometric relationship (perspective projection of horizontal lines converging at a vanishing point) from the specific known pattern (crosswalk) to create a universal reference system. By using the horizon line and vanishing point derived from any horizontal reference line in the scene, the system removes dependence on specific known patterns and can measure distances in diverse environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference line-based measurement system serves multiple functions: it can be any horizontal line in the scene (road, ground, horizon), it works with different target objects (vehicles, pedestrians, objects), and it operates in various conditions (day/night, different terrains). This universal approach replaces the limited crosswalk-based method with a versatile system applicable to countless scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If lane mark contact with skyline is required for distance measurement, then measurement is possible in that specific condition, but accurate measurement fails when no lane mark contacts the skyline
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces the vanishing point as an intermediary element that mediates between the reference line and the target object. By calculating the vanishing point from the reference line's perspective projection and using it to determine the target object's position relative to the horizon, the system enables distance measurement without requiring direct contact between lane marks and the skyline.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from requiring physical contact (lane mark touching skyline) to using angular relationships (vanishing point position and target object position in image coordinates). This parameter transformation allows measurement in situations where contact-based methods fail.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detection methods are implemented to handle various situations, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single reference line-based method serves multiple detection purposes: it identifies the horizon line, determines the vanishing point, calculates target object distance, and works with any target type. This universal approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple specialized detection algorithms into one cohesive system, maintaining simplicity while achieving broad coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A distance measurement device and an image capturing control device obtains height information and angle information on an image capturing unit based on a captured image signal output from an image capturing unit, and obtain distance information indicating a distance between the image capturing unit and a target object by using the height information and the angle information.