Rotatable 3D Calibration Object for Automated Camera Parameter Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera calibration techniques are time-consuming and require manual capture of multiple images, especially for intrinsic and extrinsic parameter estimation, and are limited by the need for fixed two-dimensional calibration objects, which restrict camera positioning and increase the complexity of feature point detection due to perspective distortion.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a rotatable three-dimensional calibration object that determines a rotation pattern based on pre-selected images with two-dimensional texture patterns, allowing for automated calibration of intrinsic and extrinsic camera parameters by capturing image frames at defined angles and synchronizing the rotation states for accurate feature point detection and mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed two-dimensional calibration object is used, then the calibration process is simpler, but the camera positioning is restricted by viewing angle and perspective distortion makes feature point detection more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional two-dimensional calibration object to a three-dimensional calibration object. This dimensional change allows the calibration object to be viewed from multiple angles and positions, eliminating the viewing angle restrictions inherent in flat 2D patterns. The 3D structure maintains discernible features from all directions while providing geometric information for accurate camera positioning and orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration object is made rotatable, introducing dynamic capability to an otherwise static object. The rotation mechanism allows the object to present different faces and orientations to the camera, enabling calibration from multiple viewpoints without requiring physical repositioning of the camera. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between operational simplicity and positioning flexibility.
2Measurement precision
If manual capture of multiple images is used for calibration, then the calibration accuracy can be improved, but the calibration time increases proportionally with the number of cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary setup by establishing a known 3D coordinate system for the calibration object before actual calibration begins. This pre-configured reference framework allows for rapid automated computation of camera parameters from captured images, eliminating the need for manual capture and processing of multiple images for each camera. The preliminary establishment of the 3D model enables subsequent fast automated calibration while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual image capture and processing operations with an automated system. The rotatable 3D calibration object combined with automated image capture and computational algorithms substitutes the manual process, significantly reducing calibration time while maintaining or improving accuracy through systematic data collection and processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a three-dimensional calibration object is used, then the camera positioning flexibility is improved, but the perspective distortion makes feature point detection and precise camera positioning more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the calibration object from 2D to 3D, creating a structure with known spatial coordinates and dimensions. This parameter change provides rich geometric information that can be used to compensate for perspective distortion. The known 3D structure allows the system to calculate and correct for distortion effects, making feature point detection more reliable even when viewed from extreme angles.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects of a system and a method for camera calibration by use of a rotatable three-dimensional (3-D) calibration object are disclosed herein. In accordance with an embodiment, the system includes a first electronic device, which determines a rotation pattern of the 3-D calibration object, based on a set of pre-selected images. The set of pre-selected images includes the 3-D calibration object captured at pre-defined viewing angles. Control information is communicated by the first electronic device to a second electronic device associated with the 3-D calibration object to rotate the 3-D calibration object in accordance with the determined rotation pattern. A plurality of image frames of the 3-D calibration object are captured to calibrate intrinsic and/or extrinsic camera parameters of the first electronic device.