Simultaneous Obverse and Reverse Imaging Using 90-Degree Mirror Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for imaging collectible items require capturing multiple images from different angles, which is inefficient and may not accurately associate the images with the same item, especially when dealing with collectibles that need authentication and grading.
Innovation Solution
A system using two flat mirrors positioned at a 90-degree angle captures both sides of a collectible in a single image, allowing for simultaneous imaging of obverse and reverse sides, which can then be cropped and processed to extract individual images using a camera, along with a robotic arm and computer system for efficient handling and identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple images are captured from different angles using multiple cameras or sequential captures, then complete imaging of both obverse and reverse sides is achieved, but imaging efficiency is reduced and association of images with the same item becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single camera system by using two mirrors positioned at 90 degrees to reflect both obverse and reverse sides of the collectible into one camera's field of view. This merging approach eliminates the need for multiple cameras and complex image association algorithms, directly resolving the technical contradiction between imaging efficiency and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirrors serve as intermediary elements that redirect light from both sides of the collectible to the single camera. This intermediary mechanism enables a single camera to capture images that would otherwise require multiple cameras positioned at different locations, thereby improving efficiency while maintaining simple device architecture.
2Loss of time
If sequential imaging of obverse and reverse sides is performed, then complete documentation is achieved, but time consumption increases and item positioning stability becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the imaging of both obverse and reverse sides into a single simultaneous capture, the patent eliminates the time delay between capturing different sides. This simultaneous imaging approach removes the stability constraint entirely, as the collectible needs to remain stationary for only one brief moment rather than during multiple sequential captures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning of the collectible between the mirrors, ensuring both sides are properly oriented before the single capture moment. This preliminary setup, combined with simultaneous imaging, eliminates the need for repositioning between captures and removes stability concerns during the imaging process.
3Device complexity
If a single camera is used to capture both sides, then device complexity is reduced, but the need for complex mirror positioning and alignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a specific asymmetric configuration where mirrors are positioned at exactly 90 degrees to each other, and the collectible is oriented at 45 degrees relative to the mirrors. This precise angular relationship creates a symmetric light path that simplifies the overall alignment process, as the geometry naturally guides the positioning rather than requiring complex adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
By establishing fixed angular parameters (90-degree mirror angle, 45-degree collectible orientation), the patent transforms the alignment problem from a complex iterative adjustment process into a straightforward setup following defined geometric parameters. This parameter-based approach simplifies manufacturing and setup while maintaining the benefit of using a single camera.
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 imaging efficiency, reduces the need for multiple camera captures, and enables accurate association of images with the collectible, making the grading and authentication process more streamlined and marketable.
Implementation Method 1
The reflective faces of two flat mirrors are positioned at a 90-degree angle, and a collectible item is positioned and secured between the mirrors such that parallel faces of the item or its case are oriented at a 45-degree angle between the flat mirrors. A camera is mounted to face the mirrors with its perspective being parallel to the faces of the item, looking into the mirrors.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system is configured to capture images of both obverse and reverse sides of a collectible item using a single image captured by a single camera. The reflective faces of two flat mirrors are positioned at a 90-degree angle, and a collectible item is positioned and secured between the mirrors such that parallel faces of the item or its case are oriented at a 45-degree angle between the flat mirrors. A camera is mounted to face the mirrors with its perspective being parallel to the faces of the item, looking into the mirrors. The camera can see mirrored reflections of both faces of the item simultaneously from a single perspective and can capture views of both faces in a single camera image. The single image can then be cropped and reverse-mirrored automatically or manually in software to extract images of the obverse and reverse sides of the item.