Structured-Light Scanner Layout for Reflective 3D Surface Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scanners struggle to obtain accurate two-dimensional and three-dimensional scan data of highly reflective objects such as metal structures due to high reflectivity, leading to inaccurate virtual models.
Innovation Solution
A scanner system with a projector, a first camera, and a second camera arranged to capture image data from opposite optical paths, using pattern light to generate accurate three-dimensional models by comparing image data with pattern data, and adjusting radiance levels for improved data capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single camera is used to capture scan data, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision is insufficient for highly reflective objects
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system is segmented into multiple functional components: a first camera for capturing initial image data, a second camera for capturing reference image data, and a projector for emitting pattern light. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, improving overall measurement precision for highly reflective objects while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
A projector is introduced as an intermediary device that emits pattern light onto the object being scanned. This intermediary element enables the cameras to capture structured light patterns that reflect off the object, providing additional geometric information that improves measurement precision without requiring the cameras themselves to be more complex.
2Manufacturing precision
If pattern light is projected onto the object, then the manufacturing precision of the three-dimensional model improves, but the loss of information increases due to light interference
Solution Approach 1:
The projector emits pattern light in periodic sequences that are synchronized with the camera capture timing. This periodic action ensures that the structured light patterns are clearly defined and captured, improving three-dimensional model accuracy while the timing coordination minimizes light interference and information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the captured image data from both cameras is processed to generate a three-dimensional model, which is then used to refine the scanning process. This feedback loop allows the system to compensate for any information loss due to light interference and continuously improve manufacturing precision.
3Reliability
If multiple cameras are used to capture data from opposite optical paths, then the reliability of scan data for reflective objects improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second cameras are positioned at asymmetric angles relative to the object, with their optical paths arranged to capture reflections from different directions. This asymmetric configuration improves reliability by ensuring that at least one camera can capture accurate data from non-specular reflection angles, while the overall scanner structure remains relatively simple through strategic component placement.
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 system effectively generates precise three-dimensional models of high-reflectivity objects by enhancing image data capture and processing, ensuring accurate representation of complex dental structures.
Implementation Method 1
a scanner may obtain scan data of the surface of an object by using light reflected from the object
Data Source
AI summary
A scanner includes a communicator configured to transmit or receive information to or from a data processing apparatus, a projector configured to emit pattern light generated based on pattern data, and a data obtainer configured to obtain two-dimensional image data of an object, where the data obtainer includes a first camera and a second camera spaced apart from each other, at least one of the first camera and the second camera is configured to obtain image data of the object to which the pattern light is projected, and the first camera is configured to obtain first image data, and the second camera is configured to obtain second image data, and an optical path of the pattern light projected to the object coincides in an opposite direction with an optical path of incident light incident on the second camera.


