Imaging Reference Marker Alignment for Precise Range and Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies face challenges in providing accurate range and orientation referencing without the complexity, energy consumption, and cost associated with Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), particularly in applications like skin imaging.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing an image capture device and display device to superimpose a matching pattern on the image, allowing for relative movement to align a reference feature with the pattern, thereby determining correct range and orientation for imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If LIDAR is employed for positioning, ranging, and orientation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a 2D image capture to create a planar representation of the 3D skin surface, copying the essential positioning and orientation information into a simplified 2D domain where reference features can be accurately measured without requiring complex 3D sensing hardware like LIDAR
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical ranging system (LIDAR) with a 2D imaging system combined with image processing algorithms, substituting a complex physical measurement system with a simpler optical capture and computational analysis approach
2Measurement precision
If LIDAR is employed for positioning, ranging, and orientation, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures positioning and orientation data through a single 2D image capture rather than continuous active scanning with LIDAR, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision through careful selection and processing of the captured image
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs ranging and orientation measurement only when needed (periodically or on-demand) rather than continuously, as implied by the single image capture approach, thereby reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous LIDAR operation
3Measurement precision
If LIDAR is employed for positioning, ranging, and orientation, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standard 2D imaging sensors and processing to extract positioning and orientation information, avoiding the need for expensive LIDAR hardware while achieving comparable measurement precision through computational methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive 2D image capture technology instead of costly LIDAR systems, using readily available imaging sensors and software-based processing to achieve the required measurement precision at a fraction of the cost
4Measurement precision
If the imaged area is kept at a fixed distance with parallel orientation, then imaging accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses reference features with known characteristics in the captured image to provide feedback on the actual distance and orientation, allowing the system to determine whether the imaging geometry is correct without requiring complex active control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent copies the positioning and orientation verification task from the physical 3D space into the 2D image domain, where reference features can be analyzed to confirm proper imaging geometry without adding physical complexity to the imaging device
Data Source
AI summary
Arrangements are disclosed which provide reliable and accurate image ranging, orientation, and/or color referencing. In exemplary implementations, an image reference marker is arranged at or proximate to an area to be imaged. A display shows a live view of the area with a matching pattern superimposed thereon as a user positions the image capture device to align the image of the marker with the matching pattern. Once satisfactory alignment is achieved, an image of the area can be captured manually or automatically.