Non-Planar Projection Depth Map Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating 360-degree panoramic depth maps require multiple planar images, leading to increased costs, complexity, and larger product volumes due to the need for numerous image capturers.
Innovation Solution
An image device utilizing two image capturers and a depth engine that generates depth maps using non-planar projection images, where the projection positions of each row of pixels and optical centers share a plane, reducing the number of image capturers required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple planar images are used to generate 360-degree panoramic depth maps, then the depth map quality is improved, but the number of image capturers required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a non-planar projection surface (spherical or cylindrical) instead of planar images to capture 360-degree panoramic views. This curvature-based projection allows a single image capturer to capture the entire panoramic view by projecting onto a curved surface, eliminating the need for multiple planar image capturers while maintaining depth map quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D planar projection to 3D non-planar projection by introducing a curved projection surface. This dimensional change allows the image capturer to capture omnidirectional views in a single shot by projecting onto the curved surface, reducing the number of capturers needed from multiple to just one or two
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple planar images are used to generate 360-degree panoramic depth maps, then the depth map coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using a curved projection surface, the system achieves complete 360-degree coverage with a single image capturer positioned at the center of curvature. This eliminates the need for multiple capturers arranged in arrays, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining full panoramic coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The non-planar projection method allows a single image capturer to perform the function of multiple planar capturers simultaneously. The curved projection surface enables one capturer to capture all directional views, making the system more universal and less complex
3Measurement precision
If multiple planar images are used to generate 360-degree panoramic depth maps, then the depth map accuracy is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The curved projection surface method reduces the bill of materials from multiple expensive image capturers to just one or two, directly reducing manufacturing cost while preserving depth map accuracy through the geometric properties of non-planar projection
Data Source
AI summary
An image device utilizing non-planar projection images to generate a depth map includes two image capturers and a depth engine. The two image capturers are used for generating two non-planar projection images, wherein when each non-planar projection image of the two non-planar projection images is projected to a space corresponding to an image capturer corresponding to the each non-planar projection image, projection positions of each row of pixels of the each non-planar projection image in the space and optical centers of the two image capturers share a plane. The depth engine is used for generating a depth map according to the two non-planar projection images.