Imaging Device Superimposed Indicators for 3D Capture Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D modeling methods face challenges in accurately capturing images of a 3D object at appropriate positions and attitudes, leading to inefficient workloads and processing loads due to insufficient or excessive imaging.

Innovation Solution

An imaging device with a display control unit that superimposes indicators on the monitor to guide users to optimal imaging positions and attitudes, using real-time 3D modeling to facilitate accurate image capture for subsequent photogrammetry or neural rendering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple images are captured from various directions for 3D modeling, then the accuracy of 3D data is improved, but the imaging workload and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D data accuracyVSAvoidimaging workload and processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary 3D modeling based on initially captured images to generate a preliminary 3D model before the actual imaging operation. This preliminary model is then used to determine optimal imaging positions and attitudes, allowing the system to plan the imaging sequence in advance and avoid unnecessary captures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously updates the 3D model based on captured images and uses this updated model to provide feedback on imaging quality. The evaluation unit assesses whether captured images contribute sufficiently to 3D model accuracy, and the control unit adjusts imaging positions and attitudes based on this feedback to optimize the imaging process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If images are captured at more appropriate positions and attitudes, then 3D data accuracy is improved, but it becomes difficult for operators to identify appropriate positions and attitudes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D data accuracyVSAvoidoperator ability to identify appropriate positions
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary evaluation mechanism that automatically determines whether captured images are sufficient for accurate 3D modeling. The evaluation unit acts as a mediator between the captured images and the 3D modeling process, providing objective feedback on imaging quality without requiring operator expertise in assessing 3D modeling requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the manual judgment mechanism (operator's ability to identify appropriate positions) with an automated computational evaluation system. The evaluation unit uses algorithms to assess imaging quality and determine whether captured images contribute sufficiently to 3D model accuracy, substituting human judgment with automated analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If fewer images are captured to reduce workload, then processing time is reduced, but 3D data accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkload and processing efficiencyVSAvoid3D data accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a dynamic imaging strategy where the control unit determines the minimum necessary number of images required for accurate 3D modeling based on the evaluation feedback. Instead of capturing a fixed large number of images or a fixed small number, the system captures exactly the necessary amount - no more, no less - optimizing the balance between workload and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4676073A1Imaging device, imaging method, and program
Publication Date: 2026.01.07 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP4676073A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4676073A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4676073A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An imaging device includes a display control unit configured to display a first indicator indicating a recommended imaging position and a second indicator indicating a current imaging position in a superimposed manner on an imaging monitor image, and perform processing for changing display of the first indicator in accordance with image obtaining processing for obtaining image data, and an imaging control unit configured to perform the image obtaining processing in accordance with a result of a matching determination between the first indicator and the second indicator on a screen.