Range Camera System Using Pixel-Shifted Image Super-Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current range cameras face limitations in spatial resolution, range accuracy, mechanical complexity, cost, and obstruction issues when capturing 3D range information, particularly in applications requiring high data quality and unobstructed views of entire volumes.
Innovation Solution
The method involves obtaining multiple pixel-shifted images with non-integer pixel shifts, using a sensor array to capture electromagnetic radiation, and applying geometric, radiometric corrections and noise reduction algorithms to determine 3D locations, enabling improved range accuracy and unobstructed views through a range camera system with a novel mount design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanning laser rangefinder design is used, then range accuracy can be achieved, but mechanical complexity increases and scan times become longer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning system (rotating mirrors and mounts) with a stationary image capture sensor array that electronically records multiple pixels simultaneously. This substitution eliminates mechanical complexity while maintaining range measurement capability through parallel optical measurement across the sensor array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the single-beam scanning approach into multiple parallel measurement channels by using a sensor array with multiple pixels. Each pixel independently measures range at its location, transforming a sequential scanning process into simultaneous parallel measurements, thereby reducing scan time and mechanical complexity.
2Device complexity
If image capture type range camera is used, then mechanical complexity is reduced, but spatial resolution and range accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of pixel dimension size to achieve higher spatial resolution. By using physically smaller pixels with higher illumination sensitivity, the system maintains the simplicity of image capture while improving resolution. The smaller pixels can detect weaker signals, enabling accurate range measurements at higher resolutions without increasing mechanical complexity.
3Measurement precision
If smaller pixel dimension is used for higher resolution, then spatial resolution improves, but required illumination increases and safety limits are approached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of pixel dimension to balance resolution and illumination requirements. Smaller pixels provide higher resolution while the system compensates for reduced light collection area through improved detector sensitivity and optimized optical design, allowing operation within safety limits while achieving desired resolution.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional tilt-and-swivel mount is used, then camera mounting is simple, but view obstruction occurs in certain areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional tilt-and-swivel mounting system to a three-dimensional spherical mounting system. The spherical mount allows the camera to rotate freely in all directions (azimuth and elevation), eliminating blind spots and view obstructions that occur with traditional intersecting-axis mounts, while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard spherical joint mechanisms.
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
This approach enhances spatial resolution and range accuracy, reduces costs, and allows for unobstructed capture of entire volumes, addressing the limitations of existing range cameras by combining pixel-shifted images and advanced processing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
generating electromagnetic radiation that is reflected from target objects in the scene about which range information is desired. The reflected electromagnetic radiation is collected using a sensor array
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer program products for acquiring three-dimensional range information are disclosed. According to one aspect, acquiring three-dimensional range information of a scene includes obtaining multiple pixel-shifted images of a scene, where at least one of the images being shifted by a non-integer pixel value with respect to another of the images. Obtaining each of the pixel-shifted images includes generating electromagnetic radiation that is reflected from target objects in the scene about which range information is desired. The reflected electromagnetic radiation is collected using a sensor array of at least two dimensions, where an array of pixels is captured simultaneously. A data value is determined for each captured pixel based on analysis of the collected electromagnetic radiation, by combining the data values from the pixel-shifted images to create a super-resolution image of the scene, and by analyzing the data values of the super-resolution image to determine a three-dimensional location for each pixel of the super-resolution image.