Movable Scan Head 3D Scanner for Tall Object Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Triangulation-based 3D scanners face challenges in capturing high-resolution images of tall objects while minimizing background noise and maintaining imaging resolution, as the closer proximity of the imaging device to the object reduces the field of view and can result in inaccurate point representation due to beam spreading and background interference.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable scan head and illumination system that captures digital images from multiple angles and illumination states, allowing for larger regions of interest to be scanned while distinguishing between object points and background noise, and processing images to identify accurate surface points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the imaging device is positioned closer to the object to increase imaging resolution, then the imaging resolution is improved, but the field of view becomes smaller and background noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by positioning the imaging device above the object support surface and enabling vertical movement. This allows the imaging device to capture tall objects by adjusting its vertical position while maintaining optimal imaging resolution, effectively adding a height dimension to the scanning capability without compromising resolution or field of view
2Measurement precision
If the imaging device is positioned closer to the object to increase imaging resolution, then the imaging resolution is improved, but background noise from reflected beams increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable scan head as an intermediary between the imaging device and the object. The scan head can be positioned and moved to optimize the imaging geometry, allowing the imaging device to maintain close proximity for high resolution while the scan head's controlled movement and positioning help manage background noise by controlling the illumination and detection geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameters by introducing vertical positioning capability. The imaging device can adjust its vertical position relative to the object, changing the imaging angle and distance parameters dynamically. This allows optimization of both resolution and background noise reduction by selecting appropriate imaging angles and distances for different object heights and surfaces
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a physical screen or housing is used to limit background noise, then background noise is reduced, but the device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the background noise reduction function from physical barriers (screens and housings) and implements it through software-based processing. The system captures images with potential background noise and then uses image processing algorithms to identify and filter out noise pixels, separating the useful object data from background interference without adding physical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical noise reduction mechanisms (screens and housings) with an optical-digital system. Instead of using physical barriers to block background reflections, the system uses the imaging device to capture the scene and then applies digital image processing to distinguish object pixels from background pixels based on intensity thresholds and spatial analysis
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 the scanning of taller objects with maintained imaging resolution by expanding the region of interest and effectively filtering out background noise, resulting in a more accurate 3D model.
Implementation Method 1
One or more imaging devices such as a digital camera having a field of view that includes the object each captures one or more two-dimensional images that may include a reflection off of the object being scanned of the one or more beams of radiation
Implementation Method 2
Based on the identified two-dimensional location(s), the known position of the imaging device and the known path(s) of the beam(s) of radiation, the two-dimensional location(s) are converted by triangulation into points in a three-dimensional coordinate system
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems, methods and devices for capturing digital images of an object in a region of interest and for identifying points on the surface of an object in a region of interest are disclosed. A device operable to capture digital images of an object in a region of interest includes a support structure having an object support surface at the bottom of the region of interest; a scan head incorporating an imaging system comprising at least one digital imaging device located with respect to the support structure to have a field of view that includes a segment of the region of interest; and a first motive system operable to move the scan head along a fixed path between first and second vertical positions with respect to the support structure thereby to cause the at least one digital imaging device to have a field of view that includes a different segment of the region of interest. Various related systems, methods and devices are disclosed.