Multi-Camera Module Calibration Using Virtual Test Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-camera module calibration methods are inefficient and imprecise, requiring sequential measurements at different distances and large spaces, which are time-consuming and not sufficient for precise alignment around all six axes.
Innovation Solution
A device and method using a single collimator to generate virtual test structures at both infinite and finite distances, allowing simultaneous recording and processing to calculate camera alignment, enabling precise alignment of cameras relative to each other around all six axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential measurement methods are used to align cameras at different distances, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (infinity measurement and finite distance measurement) into a single calibration device. The device integrates a collimator for infinity measurements and a test structure for finite distance measurements, allowing both types of measurements to be performed simultaneously rather than sequentially, thus reducing measurement time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device is designed to perform multiple calibration functions using a single setup. It can conduct both infinity focus calibration and finite distance calibration in one measurement cycle, eliminating the need for separate measurement sessions and reducing overall calibration time.
2Measurement precision
If large distances are used between test object and test structure for near-infinity measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a collimator as an intermediary device that optically simulates infinity conditions without requiring physically large distances. The collimator creates parallel light beams that mimic light from infinite distance, allowing accurate infinity calibration in a compact space.
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates a virtual copy of infinity conditions through optical means. Instead of physically placing a test object at a large distance, the collimator generates an optical illusion of infinity by producing collimated light, thereby achieving the same measurement precision in a much smaller physical space.
3Measurement precision
If separate measuring stations are used for finite and infinity measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate measuring stations into a single integrated calibration device. The device combines the collimator for infinity measurements and the test structure for finite distance measurements into one unified system, reducing device complexity while maintaining the precision benefits of separate measurements.
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 approach allows for a time-saving, precise, and efficient calibration of multi-camera modules by capturing complete information from a single image, enabling full alignment of cameras around all six axes with reduced space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a single collimator, wherein a) the collimator is a bifocal collimator imaging a single reticle as the first virtual test structures at infinite distance and the reticle as the second virtual test structures at finite distance
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) and a method for adjusting and/or calibrating a multi-camera module (2) with several cameras (4a, 4b). The device (10) comprises an optical arrangement for generating first virtual test structures (22) at an infinite distance and second test structures (26, 32) at a finite distance. Individual images (20a, 20b) captured by the cameras (4a, 4b) of the multi-camera module (2) each comprise the first and second test structures (22, 26, 32). Based on the deviation in the position of the test structures (22, 26, 32) in the two individual images (20a, 20b), the cameras (4a, 4b) of the multi-camera module (2) are aligned relative to each other.