3D Model Reconstruction Using Synchronized Drone Cameras

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D modeling technologies are inadequate for reconstructing the shape of dynamically moving objects in open-air spaces, as they either require static objects or have limitations in accuracy and cost due to the need for multiple cameras with long baselines.

Innovation Solution

The use of multiple drones equipped with cameras synchronized on a time axis to capture multi-view images, with a geometric calibration unit estimating motion variables and a 3D model creation unit applying multi-view stereo methods to reconstruct a dynamic object's 3D model within overlapping fields of view.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple fixed cameras are used to capture multi-view images simultaneously, then dynamic objects within overlapping fields of view can be reconstructed in 3D, but the reconstruction is limited to objects moving within the fixed camera coverage area

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D reconstruction accuracyVSAvoidcoverage area
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from fixed cameras to movable drones equipped with cameras. The drones can dynamically adjust their positions and trajectories to follow moving objects in open-air spaces, enabling 3D reconstruction of dynamic objects beyond the limitations of fixed camera coverage areas while maintaining measurement precision through synchronized multi-view image capture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single moving camera is used to capture images while moving around a static object, then a wide area can be reconstructed in 3D, but only static objects can be reconstructed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoiddynamic object reconstruction capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the advantages of multiple fixed cameras (simultaneous multi-view capture) with the mobility of a single moving camera. By using multiple drones with cameras that can move and follow dynamic objects while maintaining synchronized image capture, the system achieves both wide coverage area and the capability to reconstruct dynamic objects in 3D

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If multiple cameras with long baselines are used to improve 3D reconstruction accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D reconstruction accuracyVSAvoidcamera system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses movable drones to dynamically adjust camera positions and achieve long baselines when needed, rather than permanently installing complex multi-camera systems with fixed long baselines. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize baseline distances based on the specific reconstruction task, improving measurement precision while reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10217281B2Apparatus for reconstructing 3D model and method for using the same
Publication Date: 2019.02.26 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US10217281B2 patent drawing
  • US10217281B2 patent drawing
  • US10217281B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method for reconstructing a 3D model. The apparatus for reconstructing a 3D model includes an image acquisition unit for acquiring multi-view images by receiving image signals captured by multiple drones using cameras, a geometric calibration unit for estimating motion variables of the drones based on the acquired multi-view images, and a 3D model creation unit for reconstructing a 3D model of a dynamic object from the matched multi-view images using a multi-view stereo method.