Single Camera Tracking of Cylindrical Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current object tracking systems require extensive equipment and power consumption, especially when using LEDs or multiple sensors, limiting their applicability and flexibility, particularly in virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality applications where specialized sensors are often not available.
Innovation Solution
A method for determining the position and orientation of cylindrical objects using image data from a single viewpoint, which involves identifying lines and points on rings circumscribing the object's surface, allowing for robust tracking without the need for extensive equipment or power-intensive light sources, by employing image processing techniques and algorithmic transformations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors or specialized tracking equipment are used, then tracking precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking markers from the object being tracked and places them on a separate reference surface (such as a table or floor). This allows the use of a simple single-camera system instead of complex multi-sensor setups, as the markers are stationary and can be pre-mapped to provide reference information for tracking moving objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary reference surface with markers that mediates between the camera and the tracked object. The markers on the reference surface serve as an intermediate reference frame that enables the camera to determine the position and orientation of moving objects without requiring complex specialized sensors.
2Reliability
If LEDs or light sources are placed on the tracked object, then object visibility and detection are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses passive markers that reflect or absorb ambient light rather than active light sources. The markers on the reference surface utilize environmental lighting to create detectable contrast patterns, eliminating the need for power-consuming LEDs or light sources on either the tracked object or the reference surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple printed or painted markers on the reference surface instead of expensive, power-consuming electronic components. These markers can be applied as inexpensive graphics that provide sufficient contrast for detection without requiring any power supply infrastructure.
3Use of energy by moving object
If reflectors are used to replace light sources, then power consumption is reduced, but additional resources and system complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a reference surface with markers that serves multiple functions: it provides a stable reference frame for tracking, enables determination of camera position and orientation, and facilitates tracking of multiple objects simultaneously. This universal reference surface eliminates the need for separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the reference frame and tracking markers into a single integrated reference surface. Instead of requiring separate light sources, reflectors, and sensor systems, the solution combines all tracking functionality into a single camera system that observes markers on the reference surface.
4Device complexity
If a single camera is used for tracking, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but measurement precision and tracking accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses markers on a reference surface that extends into the depth dimension, allowing a single 2D camera to extract 3D spatial information. By mapping the 2D marker positions to a known 3D reference surface geometry, the system can accurately determine camera position and orientation without requiring multiple cameras or specialized 3D sensors.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to tracking objects. Specifically, the present invention relates to determining the position and/or location of styli from image data.Aspects and/or embodiments seek to provide a method for determining an orientation and/or a position of a cylindrical object from image data using a single viewpoint.