Integrated Processor for 3D Mapping Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D mapping technologies face challenges in efficiently processing and integrating color and depth image data, particularly in generating accurate depth maps from optical images, which limits their application in real-time 3D profiling and user interaction systems.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that integrates color and depth image data processing using a single semiconductor substrate, featuring input ports for receiving data from image sensors, processing circuitry to generate and synchronize depth maps with color images, and output ports for conveying data to a host computer, optionally including audio integration and lossless compression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If color and depth image data are processed separately using multiple devices, then processing functionality is comprehensive, but device complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines color image processing and depth map processing into a single integrated device. The processing circuitry includes both a color image processor that receives color image data from a first image sensor and a depth processor that generates depth maps from depth-related image data captured by a second image sensor. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate devices and reduces integration complexity while maintaining comprehensive processing functionality.
2Reliability
If depth map and color image data are transmitted separately, then data integrity is maintained, but bandwidth requirements and transmission complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transmission of depth map data and color image data into a single data stream through a single output port. The processing circuitry outputs both types of data simultaneously, reducing transmission complexity and bandwidth requirements while maintaining data integrity through synchronized processing and transmission protocols.
3Loss of information
If full depth map and color image data are stored, then data completeness is ensured, but storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and transmits only the essential features and key data elements from the full depth map and color image datasets. By processing the data to identify and output only the most relevant information needed for 3D mapping applications, the system maintains data completeness for the intended purpose while significantly reducing storage and transmission requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for processing data includes a first input port for receiving color image data from a first image sensor and a second input port for receiving depth-related image data from a second image sensor. Processing circuitry generates a depth map using the depth-related image data. At least one output port conveys the depth map and the color image data to a host computer.