Portable Photogrammetry Rig for Fast 3D Capture in the Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photogrammetry systems are cumbersome, difficult to transport, and require controlled lighting conditions, often resulting in insufficient image capture and movement of subjects during data acquisition, which limits their effectiveness in reconstructing three-dimensional geometry.
Innovation Solution
A portable, handheld camera rig system with two cameras angled between 5 and 22.5 degrees, supported by a telescopic pole that can be adjusted in length and orientation, using burst mode or intervalometer control to capture a large number of images efficiently, allowing for manual movement and flexible image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional complex camera systems are used for photogrammetry, then image quality and controlled conditions are improved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the photogrammetry function into multiple independent camera units that can be separately positioned and operated. Each camera captures images from a specific angle, and the combined data reconstructs 3D geometry. This segmentation allows using simpler, more portable camera units while maintaining overall system effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable system is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing images from multiple angles simultaneously, operating in uncontrolled lighting conditions, and reconstructing 3D geometry. By making the system multi-functional, it replaces complex specialized equipment with a versatile portable platform that achieves comparable results across different scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If controlled lighting conditions are used, then photogrammetry accuracy is improved, but adaptability to varying environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple cameras that can be dynamically positioned at different angles and orientations. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to varying lighting conditions and environmental factors by selecting optimal camera angles that capture sufficient geometric information regardless of lighting constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from relying on controlled 2D lighting conditions to capturing 3D geometric information through multiple camera angles. By emphasizing spatial dimensionality over lighting control, the system achieves photogrammetry accuracy in uncontrolled environments where traditional methods would fail.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple hand-held images are taken over time, then sufficient image coverage is improved, but subject movement and time consumption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions multiple cameras at optimal angles before image capture begins. This preliminary configuration ensures that all necessary viewing angles are captured simultaneously or in rapid succession, eliminating the need for time-consuming sequential image acquisition and reducing subject movement during the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous image capture across multiple cameras simultaneously, ensuring uninterrupted acquisition of geometric data. This continuous parallel operation achieves complete image coverage in a single pass, preventing gaps in data collection that would require additional time and increasing the risk of subject movement.
4Measurement precision
If fixed camera positions are used, then photogrammetry precision is improved, but adaptability to different object sizes and areas deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs cameras with adjustable positions and orientations that can be dynamically configured based on the specific object being scanned. For small objects, cameras are positioned close together at precise angles; for large areas, they are spaced farther apart. This dynamic adjustability maintains reconstruction precision across varying scales while maximizing system versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A lightweight, portable and configurable system for image acquisition for photogrammetry purposes includes a portable rig having at least two cameras supported thereon in spaced relation to one another. The cameras are angled towards one another and actuated in an automated fashion so as to capture images of an object at a minimum rate over time. At least a plurality of the captured images are used to digitally reconstruct three-dimensional geometry of the object.