Image Acquisition Module Self-Calibration Using Display Patterns and Mirrors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining optical parameters of portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, require complex and costly laboratory calibration processes or the presence of trained professionals, making them impractical for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A user-friendly calibration method that uses a smartphone's display screen to guide users through a series of patterns and orientations in front of a mirror, allowing untrained individuals to determine image acquisition module parameters without specialized equipment or professionals, using a combination of image processing and calibration algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory calibration with metrological equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a virtual copy of the calibration target displayed on the device's own screen rather than requiring physical metrological equipment. The calibration target is rendered as an image on the display, which the image acquisition module captures through the mirror reflection, eliminating the need for physical calibration artifacts and specialized measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs its own calibration using its intrinsic components (display screen, image acquisition module, and processor) without requiring external calibration equipment or professional technicians. The system automatically determines calibration parameters by capturing images of the virtual target and processing the reflected patterns.
2Measurement precision
If individual calibration for each device is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target and patterns are pre-configured on the display screen before the calibration process begins. The system automatically guides the user through positioning steps and captures multiple images at predetermined positions, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual measurement and calculation during the calibration process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and physical adjustment with automated digital image capture and processing. The processor automatically determines calibration parameters by analyzing images captured at different positions, substituting manual calibration procedures with automated computational methods that are faster and more consistent.
3Measurement precision
If specialized personnel are required for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback through the display screen showing the calibration target and captured images at each step. The processor automatically analyzes the captured images and provides guidance for positioning adjustments, allowing users to complete calibration without technical expertise while maintaining accuracy through automated feedback and guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mirror as an intermediary element that enables the image acquisition module to capture the display content from the appropriate angle. The mirror reflects the virtual calibration target onto the camera sensor, serving as a mediator that allows the device to self-calibrate using its own display and camera components without requiring external equipment or specialized knowledge.
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
Enables precise and efficient calibration of image acquisition modules on various electronic devices, reducing the need for laboratory calibration and professional involvement, thereby making it accessible to a broader audience.
Implementation Method 1
the electronic device is positioned in front a mirror, the display screen facing the mirror
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining parameters of an image acquisition module of an electronic device, the electronic device having a display screen and the image acquisition module on the same side of the electronic device. The method includes an initialization step where a first pattern is displayed on the display screen, a positioning step where the electronic device is positioned in front of a mirror, an orientation step where the electronic device is oriented in a particular orientation, an orientation confirmation step where the electronic device is maintained in the particular orientation during a period of time, a reference point determination step where the set of fourth elements of the second pattern are detected and a reference point associated to each fourth element is determined, and an image acquisition module parameter determination step where the image acquisition module parameter is determined.