Modular Camera Mounting Fixture for Rapid 3D Photogrammetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photogrammetry systems are cumbersome, limited to static environments, and require extensive time to capture 3D models, especially for moving objects or large areas, and lack portability for outdoor or awkwardly situated subjects.
Innovation Solution
A portable photogrammetry system with a modular, flexible mounting fixture and multiple cameras that can be configured to capture images from various perspectives, allowing simultaneous image capture and rapid download to a computer device for real-time 3D model creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are used in a fixed array configuration, then the photogrammetry system can capture images from multiple perspectives, but the system becomes rigid and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The camera array is divided into multiple independent camera modules that can be separately positioned and configured. Each camera can be independently mounted on adjustable arms or rails, allowing the system to be segmented into modular units that can be rearranged based on specific photogrammetry requirements without requiring a complete system reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The camera mounting system incorporates adjustable and movable components such as telescopic arms, rotating joints, and sliding rails that allow the camera positions and angles to be dynamically changed. This enables the same physical system to adapt to different object sizes, shapes, and imaging requirements while maintaining a manageable structural complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If in-studio operations with fixed camera arrays are used, then photogrammetry can be performed with controlled conditions, but the system cannot efficiently image moving objects or large areas
Solution Approach 1:
The camera array system is designed with universal mounting interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the same hardware configuration to be used across different environments (studio, outdoor, indoor spaces) and for different object types (small objects, large structures, moving subjects). The system can be quickly reconfigured between applications without requiring specialized equipment for each scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for preliminary positioning and pre-focusing of cameras before the actual photogrammetry session begins. Cameras can be pre-configured at optimal positions and angles, and the system can perform preliminary calibration and alignment procedures in advance, reducing the active capture time when imaging moving objects or large areas
3Productivity
If multiple media cards are used to store images from multiple cameras, then all images can be captured simultaneously, but the user cannot conveniently access all images directly through a single device
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a central image aggregation device that consolidates image data from multiple camera media cards into a single accessible location. This could be a centralized storage unit with automatic card reading capabilities, or a computer system that automatically imports and organizes images from all cameras simultaneously, allowing the user to access all captured images through a single interface rather than manually checking multiple media cards
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a user holdable plate or other mounting fixture having multiple attachment points and a plurality of mounting arms coupled to the plate via the attachment points. The mounting arms may be user configurable to support cameras at multiple perspective points about an object to be imaged. A trigger may be coupled to provide a command to the cameras to simultaneously capture an image of the object from the multiple perspective points.