IR Camera Distortion Validation Using Heated Calibration Harp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IR camera calibration metrics, such as reprojection errors and variance, are insufficient for evaluating the accuracy of IR cameras, particularly in autonomous vehicles where precise sensor data is critical.
Innovation Solution
A sensor distortion detection system for IR cameras that uses a calibration harp with straight strings under tension, which are heated to be visible to the IR camera, allowing for the capture of images that can be used to determine the distortion error coefficient and subsequently correct for distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing IR camera calibration metrics (reprojection errors, variance) are used, then the calibration process is simple, but the measurement precision of distortion accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a calibration harp as an intermediary object between the IR camera and the calibration process. The calibration harp provides known geometric features (straight lines, circles, grids) that serve as a mediator to accurately measure and evaluate camera distortion, enabling precise distortion coefficient calculation without requiring complex calibration systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the calibration approach by using a calibration harp with specific geometric parameters (straight lines, circles, grids) and evaluating distortion through multiple parameters including distortion error coefficients, radial distortion, and tangential distortion. This parameter-based evaluation method provides more accurate distortion measurement compared to traditional single-metric approaches.
2Measurement precision
If a calibration harp with heated strings is used to improve visibility, then the detection precision of the calibration pattern is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes phase transition (heating) of the calibration harp strings to change their thermal state, making them visible to the IR camera through thermal radiation. The strings are heated to a temperature where they emit detectable infrared signals, enabling accurate detection of the calibration pattern geometry without requiring complex illumination systems.
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
The system effectively evaluates and corrects for distortion in IR camera images, improving the accuracy of sensor data in autonomous vehicles by providing a more precise method for determining the accuracy of IR cameras.
Implementation Method 1
which are heated to be visible to the IR camera
Implementation Method 2
capturing images with the IR camera
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology is directed to determining an accuracy of an infrared (IR) camera, and more particularly, validating a distortion accuracy of an IR camera. The present technology can receive one or more images of a calibration harp captured by the IR camera, wherein the one or more images include a plurality of lines corresponding to a plurality of strings of the calibration harp. The present technology can further determine a degree of distortion of the plurality of lines based on a distortion error coefficient, wherein the distortion error coefficient is computed based on edge points of the plurality of lines on the one or more images.