Smart Range Camera Rectification for Asymmetrical Object Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing range imaging devices lack the flexibility in configuration and analysis, leading to distortions when measuring asymmetrical objects, and require custom software for obtaining useful properties, unlike 2D smart cameras which offer dynamic analysis.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus and method that configures range data acquisition and analysis, calibrates range data from sensor pixel units to world-coordinates, rectifies the data onto a uniformly spaced grid, and dynamically analyzes the data to obtain three-dimensional object characteristics, enabling true translation invariant analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If range data is acquired using conventional profile-per-profile processing, then measurement capability is provided, but distortion occurs when measuring asymmetrical objects due to position-dependent size and shape variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from processing individual profiles independently to treating the entire range data as a 2D image that can be rectified using image processing techniques. This dimensional approach allows application of rectification algorithms that correct distortions across the whole field of view, eliminating position-dependent shape variations while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies rectification parameters to transform the range data from a distorted coordinate system to a corrected one. By changing the spatial parameters through rectification, the system eliminates shape distortions that vary with object position, allowing accurate measurement of asymmetrical objects regardless of their location in the field of view.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom software is developed to process range data and obtain useful properties, then analysis capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions including range data acquisition, rectification, and dynamic analysis directly into the smart range camera device. This universal design eliminates the need for external custom software by providing built-in capabilities that perform both correction and analysis, reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the rectification function and analysis function within the same device that acquires the range data. By merging these previously separate functions (acquisition, correction, and analysis) into a single integrated system, the patent eliminates the need for external custom software while providing comprehensive analysis capabilities.
3Productivity
If range imaging devices are adapted to PC for processing and storage, then data processing capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates requiring user configuration and custom software
Solution Approach 1:
The smart range camera performs rectification and analysis operations autonomously without requiring external PC processing or user configuration. The device serves itself by automatically correcting distortions and providing analysis results, eliminating the need for users to set up complex processing pipelines or write custom software while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the processing and storage capabilities directly into the range camera device itself, eliminating the need for external PC adaptation. This integration allows the device to autonomously perform rectification and analysis, improving ease of operation while maintaining data processing capability.
4Device complexity
If static analysis is performed on range data, then processing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different inspection tasks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic analysis that can adapt to different inspection tasks by allowing users to configure analysis parameters and select different processing steps based on the specific application. This dynamic approach maintains processing simplicity through a standardized workflow while providing flexibility to handle various inspection requirements through configurable parameters.
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
The solution provides a stand-alone, user-configurable imaging unit capable of dynamic analysis, overcoming distortion issues and enabling accurate measurement of asymmetrical objects without the need for custom software, enhancing the flexibility and accuracy of 3D data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
creating an image of said object by detecting reflected light from said object using at least one sensor comprising pixels
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus and method for measuring the three-dimensional characteristics of an object using range data acquisition and analysis. The imaging apparatus comprises: means for configuring the range data acquisition and analysis before starting the measuring; means for creating an image of the object by detecting reflected light from the object using at least one sensor comprising pixels; means for acquiring range data of the object from the created image measured in sensor pixel units; means for calibrating the acquired range data from sensor pixel values to world-coordinates; means for rectifying the calibrated range data by re-sampling the range data onto a uniformly spaced grid; and, means for analyzing the calibrated and rectified range data in order to obtain the three-dimensional characteristics of the object.