3D Object Scanning Using Overlapping Camera Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scanners, such as flatbed and handheld devices, are limited to two-dimensional scanning and require user intervention, taking up space and necessitating steady hands to avoid distortion.
Innovation Solution
A device with two cameras angled to capture overlapping images of an object on a working surface, processed to correct skew and produce 2D or 3D images, allowing for automatic scanning without the need for user-operated covers and providing improved resolution through Super Resolution techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If flatbed scanner is used to scan documents, then scanning quality is improved, but device size and space requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D flatbed scanning to 3D structured light scanning. By projecting structured light patterns (lines, grids, or codes) onto the object and capturing the deformed light patterns with a camera, the system extracts three-dimensional surface information. This dimensional change enables compact device design while maintaining high scanning precision for both 2D documents and 3D objects.
2Area of stationary object
If hand held scanner is used for portability, then device size is reduced, but scanning accuracy deteriorates due to hand instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical scanning operations with an automated optical system. The structured light projection and camera capture process eliminates the need for steady hand operation. The system automatically projects light patterns, captures images, and processes the data through image processing algorithms, substituting mechanical stability requirements with computational processing that achieves high precision regardless of device movement.
3Measurement precision
If traditional scanner is used, then 2D scanning is achieved, but 3D scanning capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal scanning system that can handle both 2D documents and 3D objects with a single device. The structured light projection method works for flat surfaces (2D documents) and three-dimensional surfaces (objects). By adjusting the projection patterns and processing algorithms, the system provides multi-functional capability for diverse scanning applications without requiring separate specialized devices.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If opaque cover is used in flatbed scanner, then ambient light exclusion is improved, but user operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs active structured light projection that inherently overcomes ambient light interference. The projected light patterns are intense and directed, creating a self-contained illumination system that does not rely on excluding ambient light. The system actively projects and detects light patterns, making the scanning process self-sufficient and eliminating the need for opaque covers or dark environments, thereby simplifying user operation.
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 efficient, space-saving, and accurate 2D and 3D scanning without user intervention, improving image clarity and resolution while eliminating the need for manual alignment and cover operation.
Implementation Method 1
two or more cameras mounted on the body for capturing images of the object on the working surface
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A device and method for scanning an object on a working surface, the device comprising: a body located adjacent to the working surface; two or more cameras mounted on the body at a location elevated adjacently above the working surface for capturing images of the object on the working surface, the two or more cameras being angled such that their range of image captures overlap and the common overlapping region of the range of image captures of the two or more cameras corresponds with the size of the working surface, the two or more cameras being spaced apart such that each of the two or more cameras captures a different angle of the common overlapping region; and a processing unit capable of correcting skewed images of the working surface captured by the two or more cameras and capable of converting the images captured by the two or more cameras into a three dimensional image.