Mobile Stereo Camera Calibration Using Dynamic Orientation and Distance Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stereo-photogrammetry measurements require tedious calibration processes, including fixed camera positions and complex procedures for large-area calibrations, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially for objects with increasing dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A mobile image capturing system with freely movable image sensor devices that synchronize orientation and distance information to derive three-dimensional stereo views, eliminating the need for fixed camera positions and enabling on-the-fly calibration for large-scale structural analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fixed camera position calibration is used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but device complexity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the calibration target movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned at multiple locations. The system dynamically captures images of the moving target from different positions, enabling calibration data collection without requiring fixed camera mounts or complex stationary setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target serves multiple functions: it is both the object being calibrated and the reference standard. The target contains machine-readable codes that automatically provide position and orientation information, eliminating the need for manual measurement and entry of calibration data.
2Measurement precision
If conventional calibration procedures are followed, then accurate extrinsic parameters can be obtained, but loss of time increases due to tedious processes
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target is pre-encoded with machine-readable information containing its position and orientation data. This preliminary encoding allows the system to automatically extract calibration parameters during image capture, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual measurement and data entry processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with automated optical recognition. Machine-readable codes on the calibration target are read by the camera system, automatically providing precise position and orientation data without requiring physical measurement tools or manual data collection.
3Measurement precision
If fixed camera positions are used for calibration, then calibration accuracy improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to rigid setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed to dynamic positioning. The calibration target can be moved to various locations, and the camera system captures images at different positions. This dynamic approach maintains calibration accuracy while allowing flexible setup and operation without rigid mounting requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target is designed to function in multiple positions and orientations. Its machine-readable codes remain readable regardless of position, allowing the same target to serve calibration purposes from various camera positions, thereby increasing operational flexibility while maintaining accuracy.
4Measurement precision
If conventional calibration methods are used for large areas, then measurement precision can be maintained, but productivity decreases due to complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The large-area calibration is divided into multiple smaller calibration zones. The movable calibration target is positioned at different locations across the large area, and calibration is performed sequentially for each position. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of large areas while maintaining precision and avoiding the complexity of single-step large-area calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process continues seamlessly across multiple positions. As the calibration target is moved to different locations, the system continuously captures calibration images and processes data without interruption. This continuous operation maintains productivity while achieving comprehensive calibration coverage for large areas.
Data Source
AI summary
A first image sensor device is operable to produce first orientation information indicating an orientation of the first image sensor device at a time of capturing a first image of an object. A second image sensor device is operable to produce second orientation information indicating an orientation of the second image sensor device at a time of capturing a second image of the object. The image capturing system further includes measurement hardware to measure a distance between the first image sensor device and the second image sensor device at times of capturing the first image and the second image. According to one configuration, a combination of the first orientation information, the second orientation information, and the distance between the first image sensor device and the second image sensor device is used to derive a 3-D stereo view of the object using the first image and the second image.