3D Model Generation Using Mirrors and Pattern Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling techniques for working environments require rotating sensors to capture multiple overlapping images, which is time-consuming and suitable only for offline applications.
Innovation Solution
A system using a projection device and mirrors to project patterns onto an environment, allowing a stationary capture device to capture a single unified image, eliminating the need for sensor rotation and enabling efficient 3D model generation without image registration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple overlapping images are captured by rotating the sensor, then a complete 3D model of the environment can be generated, but the process is time-consuming and suitable only for offline applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-positioning the sensor at specific locations and orientations before capturing images. The sensor rotates to predetermined positions rather than continuously scanning, and images are captured in advance at optimized positions, enabling rapid 3D model generation without time-consuming real-time rotation and registration processes.
2Measurement precision
If multiple overlapping images are captured and merged through image registration, then a comprehensive 3D model is achieved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex image registration process by capturing images at predetermined positions where the sensor's orientation and location are already known. This removes the need for computational merging and registration operations, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining mapping accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor's position and orientation are predetermined and pre-calculated before image capture. By knowing the exact pose of the sensor in advance, the system eliminates the need for complex real-time registration algorithms, simplifying the overall device architecture while achieving accurate environmental mapping.
3Area of stationary object
If the sensor rotates to capture multiple views, then complete coverage of the environment is achieved, but the capture process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor rotates to predetermined positions that are pre-calculated to provide complete environmental coverage. By planning the rotation path in advance and capturing images at these optimized positions, the system achieves full area coverage more quickly than continuous scanning approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture process is segmented into discrete predetermined positions rather than continuous rotation. The sensor visits specific locations in advance, capturing images at each predetermined position, which allows for faster capture compared to continuous scanning while maintaining complete environmental coverage.
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 rapid and efficient generation of accurate 3D models of environments, allowing for real-time representation and projection of texts, graphics, or images onto surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a projection device may project light or patterns onto a first mirror, such as ahyperboloidal or paraboloidal shaped mirror, which may then reflect the projected light or patterns onto the surroundings of the environment
Implementation Method 2
a second mirror may then reflect the surroundings with the associated patterns
Implementation Method 3
a stationary capture device, such as a camera, may be directed at the second mirror in order to capture a single, unified image or multiple images that represent the surroundings of the entire environment
Data Source
AI summary
Within a particular environment, a projection that may include light or one or more patterns may be directed at one or more mirrors. The projection may be reflected by a first one of the mirrors onto the surroundings of the environment, which may include a floor, one or more walls, and/or objects in the environment having a surface. A second mirror may represent an entire view of the surroundings of the environment. As a result, by taking an image directed at the second mirror, a single image may be captured that represents a view of the entire environment without having to rotate the device that captures the image. The single image may then be utilized to generate a three-dimensional model of the environment.