Portable 3D Measurement Using Single-Camera Coaxial Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-dimensional image measuring devices require multiple cameras and complex optical setups, leading to bulkiness, high production costs, and limited portability, while surgical navigation systems need precise three-dimensional image capture for accurate surgical guidance.
Innovation Solution
A portable three-dimensional image measuring device using a single camera with a light source and optical path control element that aligns the optical paths of patterned light and reflected light coaxially, enabling miniaturization and efficient three-dimensional image generation through light field imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras and complex optical setups are used for three-dimensional image measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source and camera into a single integrated device with a unified optical path. The light source emits patterned light that reflects off the object and returns to the same camera through the same optical path, eliminating the need for separate cameras and complex multi-camera setups. This merging achieves three-dimensional image measurement while simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The single camera system performs multiple functions: it captures reflected patterned light, generates light field images, and reconstructs three-dimensional images. The optical path control element simultaneously manages both light emission and light reception, making the device multi-functional without requiring separate components for each function.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used for triangulation method, then three-dimensional image measurement precision is improved, but production cost and device portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions into a single camera system. Instead of using two or more cameras for triangulation, the invention uses one camera to capture reflected patterned light and generate three-dimensional images through light field imaging, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual multiple viewpoints through light field imaging captured by a single camera. The light field image contains directional information that allows reconstruction of three-dimensional data without physically having multiple cameras, effectively copying the function of multiple cameras through computational methods.
3Measurement precision
If scanning method is used to acquire three-dimensional image, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time and productivity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by capturing the entire light field image in a single shot, containing all directional information of reflected light. The three-dimensional image is then reconstructed from this pre-captured light field data without requiring subsequent scanning movements, significantly improving measurement speed while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous scanning, the system uses periodic patterned light projection and single-shot light field imaging. The patterned light is projected periodically, and each projection captures a complete light field image instantaneously, replacing time-consuming continuous scanning with efficient periodic measurement cycles.
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 device achieves precise, miniaturized, and cost-effective three-dimensional image capture, allowing versatile posture changes and enhanced portability, with reduced light distortion and improved usability in surgical navigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical path control element configured to reflect the patterned light output from the light source so that the object is irradiated with the patterned light, and to transmit the reflected light reflected from the object so that the reflected light reaches the camera
Implementation Method 2
a camera configured to generate a light field image of an object by receiving reflected light generated by reflecting the patterned light from the object
Data Source
AI summary
A portable three-dimensional image measuring device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a light source configured to output patterned light; a camera configured to generate a light field image of an object by receiving reflected light generated by reflecting the patterned light from the object; and an optical path control element configured to reflect the patterned light output from the light source so that the object is irradiated with the patterned light, and to transmit the reflected light reflected from the object so that the reflected light reaches the camera. An optical path of the patterned light output from the light source and irradiated onto the object and an optical path of the reflected light reflected from the object and reaching the camera may overlap coaxially in a section between the optical path control element and the object.