3D Object Location via Direct and Reflected Image Views
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining the location of objects being manipulated by robots are time-consuming and require expensive, complex equipment, often involving multiple measurements and complex setups, which are not efficient for real-time processing and calibration.
Innovation Solution
A technique that captures a digital image of the object with both a direct and reflected view, allowing for simultaneous computation of the object's location in multiple dimensions using a low-cost, simple setup, enabling quick and precise determination of object locations for robotic processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If touch-based measurements are used to determine object location, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and requires expensive equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical touch-based measurement systems with an optical imaging system. A camera captures images of the object, and software algorithms process these images to determine precise 3D coordinates of features. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact sensors and manual measurement procedures, achieving both high precision and rapid measurement in a single image capture.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to measure object location in multiple dimensions, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single imaging device. Instead of using separate sensors for each dimension (X, Y, Z coordinates), a single camera captures all spatial information simultaneously in two orthogonal directions. The system processes these images to extract precise 3D location data, thereby achieving multi-dimensional measurement capability while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system performs multiple functions: it captures images in two directions, determines 3D coordinates of multiple features, and provides measurement data for various processing operations. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized sensors for each measurement task, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If laser-based scanning is used to measure object dimensions, then measurement precision is achieved, but setup and calibration become time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standard digital cameras, which are inexpensive and widely available, replacing expensive laser scanning equipment. These cameras require no complex calibration procedures and can be quickly set up and used. The system achieves sufficient measurement precision for industrial applications without the high cost and complexity of laser-based systems.
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 rapid and precise location determination of objects in fractions of a second, reducing setup and operational costs while improving efficiency in robotic processing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The digital image includes a direct view of the object and a reflected view of the object
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for determining a location of an object that is being manipulated or processed by a robot. The technique includes capturing a digital image of the object while the object is disposed by the robot within an imaging space, wherein the digital image includes a direct view of the object and a reflected view of the object, detecting a visible feature of the object in the direct view and the visible feature of the object in the reflected view, and computing a first location of the visible feature in a first direction based on a position of the visible feature in the direct view. The technique further includes computing a second location of the visible feature in a second direction based on a position of the visible feature in the reflected view and causing the robot to move the object to a processing station based at least in part on the first location and the second location.