360° Panoramic Capture Assembly for Image–Depth Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for capturing and aligning panoramic image and depth data are expensive, require complex hardware, and are not user-friendly, limiting real-time alignment capabilities for non-technical users.
Innovation Solution
A 2D/3D panoramic capture device with multiple cameras and depth sensors configured to span a 360° field-of-view, capable of simultaneous image and depth data capture, and employing stereo algorithms to derive 3D information, along with hardware-assisted depth data to enhance alignment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods for capturing 3D spatial data are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cameras and depth sensors into a single integrated capture device assembly, merging previously separate imaging and depth-sensing systems into one unified platform that captures both 2D images and 3D depth data simultaneously from the same physical location
Solution Approach 2:
The capture device assembly performs multiple functions including capturing 2D panoramic images, capturing 3D depth data, and providing hardware-assisted alignment information all through a single integrated system, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment
2Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used, then alignment accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment by automatically using the hardware-assisted alignment information from the capture device to align captured images and depth data without requiring manual intervention, making the process autonomous and user-friendly while maintaining high accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements an automated feedback mechanism where the alignment software uses hardware-assisted alignment information to continuously refine and adjust the alignment of captured data, eliminating the need for manual rough alignment input while maintaining precision
3Measurement precision
If multiple cameras and depth sensors are used to span 360° field-of-view, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the 360° panoramic capture task into multiple segments by using several cameras and depth sensors positioned at different locations on the capture device assembly, with each sensor capturing a portion of the total field-of-view that collectively spans 360 degrees
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point capture to multi-point simultaneous capture by distributing sensors across different spatial positions on the capture device assembly, adding a spatial dimension to the data collection process and enabling comprehensive panoramic coverage
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 affordable, user-friendly, and efficient generation of immersive 3D environments by simultaneously capturing and aligning panoramic images and depth data, facilitating real-time alignment and generation of high-quality 3D models.
Implementation Method 1
capturing, by the capture device, two or more sets of depth data of the environment from a fixed location
Implementation Method 2
employing stereo algorithms to derive 3D information
Data Source
AI summary
This application generally relates to capturing and aligning panoramic image and depth data. In one embodiment, a device is provided that comprises a housing and a plurality of cameras configured to capture two-dimensional images, wherein the cameras are arranged at different positions on the housing and have different azimuth orientations relative to a center point such that the cameras have a collective field-of-view spanning up to 360° horizontally. The device further comprises a plurality of depth detection components configured to capture depth data, wherein the depth detection components are arranged at different positions on the housing and have different azimuth orientations relative to the center point such that the depth detection components have the collective field-of-view spanning up to 360° horizontally.