Multi-Projector Structured Light Gathering for Faster Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current structured light systems in multi-projector setups are unable to quickly calibrate large-scale systems due to sequential gathering methods, resulting in unacceptably long downtime.
Innovation Solution
A method for parallel gathering of structured light patterns in multi-projector systems using selective masking of camera images and graph coloring algorithms to identify and group non-conflicting projectors, allowing simultaneous image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential gathering method is used for structured light patterns in multi-projector systems, then measurement precision can be maintained, but loss of time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multi-projector system into multiple gather groups based on spatial relationships and conflict analysis. Projectors are divided into distinct groups that can be gathered simultaneously without pattern conflation, enabling parallel processing while maintaining measurement accuracy for each group.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by executing multiple gather sequences in parallel for different gather groups. Each gather group undergoes structured light projection and capture in periodic cycles, with multiple groups operating concurrently to reduce total calibration time while preserving measurement precision through repeated measurements.
2Productivity
If parallel gathering of structured light patterns is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases due to need for conflict resolution algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing conflict analysis and gathering group assignment before the actual structured light gathering process. The system pre-processes projector spatial relationships, identifies potential pattern conflicts, and assigns projectors to gather groups in advance, enabling smooth parallel execution without real-time complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conflict analysis component that mediates between multiple projectors and the gathering process. This intermediary analyzes projector relationships, identifies conflicts, and creates gather group assignments that enable parallel processing while managing system complexity through structured intermediate processing.
3Reliability
If distinct patterns and colors are assigned to projectors to reduce conflicts, then reliability of pattern identification improves, but loss of substance increases due to additional resources required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning distinct visual characteristics (colors, patterns) only to projectors within the same gather group that may have overlapping projections. Projectors in different gather groups can use identical or similar patterns since they are gathered separately, reducing overall resource consumption while maintaining reliable pattern identification where needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method is provided of parallel gathering of structured light patterns in multi-projector systems, comprising sequentially projecting images from each of a plurality of projectors on a surface; capturing the sequentially projected images on the surface via at least one sensing device; creating one or more sensing device/projector masks for limiting the images projected by each of the plurality of projectors to portions that do not conflict with images projected by other ones of the plurality of projectors; using the one or more projector masks to create a graph of projectors whose projections conflict; and creating from the graph a plurality of gather groups wherein projectors within a group do not conflict with each other for simultaneously gathering structured light patterns from projectors in each of the gather groups.