Mirror-Based Timber Imaging System for Compact Multi-Angle Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for capturing images of elongated timber require multiple cameras and large open spaces, leading to inefficiencies in positioning and slower image capture due to the need for cameras to be positioned vertically and in the transfer direction, especially when timber is moved longitudinally.
Innovation Solution
The use of one or more mirrors and a camera system that allows indirect image capture of elongated timber, enabling flexible camera placement with fewer cameras, reduced vertical space requirements, and faster image capture by conveying timber transversely relative to the camera, utilizing multiple mirrors to reflect images from various angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used to capture images of timber from different directions, then image capture completeness is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mirrors as intermediary objects to reflect timber images to the camera. Instead of placing multiple cameras directly, the system uses mirror surfaces to create virtual images of the timber from different angles, allowing a single camera to capture what would otherwise require multiple cameras. The mirrors act as mediators that redirect light paths to achieve comprehensive imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates optical copies (mirror images) of the timber using reflective surfaces. The camera captures not the actual timber directly from all angles, but rather copies of the timber reflected in mirrors positioned at various orientations. This allows comprehensive documentation of timber surfaces without physically surrounding the object with multiple cameras.
2Ease of operation
If timber is conveyed in longitudinal direction with respect to cameras, then image capture is simplified, but productivity decreases due to slower transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the relative orientation between timber conveyance and camera positioning. Instead of conveying timber longitudinally (parallel to camera axis), the system conveys timber in transverse direction (perpendicular to camera axis). Combined with mirrors positioned above the timber, this allows the camera to capture images of timber moving quickly through the inspection zone without requiring the timber to slow down for longitudinal positioning.
3Measurement precision
If camera is positioned directly above timber to capture images, then image quality is improved, but large open space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning mirrors above the timber rather than requiring horizontal space for multiple cameras. The mirrors are arranged in the vertical space above the conveyor, reflecting timber images down to a camera positioned in the vertical dimension. This transforms a horizontal space requirement into a vertical arrangement, reducing the footprint area while maintaining imaging quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirrors serve as intermediaries that allow the camera to be positioned in a compact vertical arrangement rather than requiring extensive horizontal space. The mirrors reflect light from the timber to the camera, enabling high-quality imaging in a confined space above the conveyor without needing large open areas for camera placement.
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
This solution allows for efficient image capture of elongated timber from multiple directions with fewer cameras, enabling precise positioning and faster image acquisition, as the camera can be placed at desired heights and distances, reducing the need for extensive open spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a first camera (30), wherein the first camera (30) is arranged relative to one or more mirror surfaces (11, 21, 51, 71) so that the first camera (30) is capturing images of the timber (100) only indirectly via the one or more mirror surfaces (11, 21, 51, 71)
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to apparatus (1) for capturing images of elongated timber (100), The apparatus (1) comprises one or more mirrors (10, 20, 50, 70), a first camera (30), and a conveyor (40) which is arranged to convey the timber (100) transversely to a transfer direction (K). The first camera (30) is arranged relative to one or more mirror surface (11, 21, 51, 71) so that the first camera (30) capturing images of the timber (100) only indirectly via the one or more mirror surfaces (11, 21, 51, 71).