Multi-Surface Fiducial Calibration Target for Automatic Camera Parameter Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera calibration systems are slow and inaccurate, requiring manual input for calibrating cameras to virtual scenes, and are unable to concurrently capture camera position, rotation, distortion, and focal length effectively.
Innovation Solution
A calibration target with unique fiducial markings on multiple surfaces that allows for automatic camera calibration and virtual camera configuration, using a computer-implemented method to determine camera parameters by comparing image coordinates to a computer model and applying error minimization operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration methods are used with traditional calibration targets, then the calibration process can be performed, but it is time consuming and prone to inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target automatically provides calibration data through its unique fiducial markings that can be detected by the camera system without requiring manual intervention. The target self-calibrates the camera by enabling the system to automatically determine camera position, rotation, distortion, and focal length through image processing of the fiducial markings.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target uses distinct color patterns and unique fiducial markings on multiple surfaces that create high-contrast visual signatures. These color and pattern variations enable automated detection and differentiation of multiple calibration features simultaneously, allowing the system to extract calibration parameters efficiently without manual input.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional calibration targets are used, then calibration can be performed, but the system cannot concurrently capture camera position, rotation, distortion, and focal length
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target extends calibration information across multiple dimensions by placing unique fiducial markings on multiple surfaces (front, back, and side surfaces). This multi-surface arrangement provides redundant calibration data from different viewing angles, enabling the system to simultaneously and accurately determine all camera parameters including position, rotation, distortion, and focal length.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target is designed to serve multiple calibration functions simultaneously. The same target structure with its unique fiducial markings on multiple surfaces enables determination of camera position, rotation, distortion, and focal length all in one calibration operation, making the system versatile and reliable for comprehensive camera characterization.
3Ease of operation
If manual mapping of object features to computer graphics model is performed, then camera orientation can be set, but the process is intrinsically time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical process of mapping features and adjusting camera orientation is replaced with an automated image processing system. The computer system automatically detects the unique fiducial markings on the calibration target, computes camera parameters through algorithmic processing, and configures the virtual camera automatically, eliminating manual intervention entirely and dramatically increasing calibration throughput.
4Measurement precision
If current calibration systems are used, then calibration can be performed, but they are relatively slow and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target is pre-configured with unique fiducial markings on multiple surfaces before the calibration process begins. This preliminary arrangement of high-contrast, machine-readable patterns enables the camera system to quickly and accurately capture and process calibration data in a single shot, eliminating the need for multiple adjustments or manual measurements and achieving both high speed and high precision simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed which may serve as a target for calibrating a camera. The apparatus comprises one or more planar surfaces. The apparatus includes at least one fiducial marking on a planar surface. The set of all planar markings on the apparatus are distinguishable.