Single Camera Depth Estimation via Movable Lens Magnification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing depth map generation methods require two cameras and triangulation, which is cumbersome and may not provide accurate depth measurements, especially for objects that are unfocused or in scenes with varying depths.
Innovation Solution
A system using a single camera with a movable lens and high-resolution image sensor to capture images at different lens positions, measuring object dimensions based on keypoints, and calculating depth using the focal length and lens position changes, allowing for accurate depth map generation without the need for complex triangulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two cameras are used for depth map generation through triangulation, then depth values can be calculated for various features of the scene, but the system becomes cumbersome and may not provide accurate depth measurements for unfocused objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the depth measurement function from a multi-camera triangulation system and implements it using a single camera with a movable lens. By removing the second camera and replacing triangulation with lens position variation, the system achieves the same depth measurement capability with reduced complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter being varied from camera position (in triangulation) to lens position (in magnification change method). By moving the lens between at least two positions and measuring the resulting magnification changes, the system determines object depth without requiring multiple cameras or complex triangulation geometry.
2Device complexity
If a single camera with movable lens is used to capture images at different lens positions, then depth can be determined through magnification change, but the system requires precise measurement of object dimensions based on keypoints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary identification of keypoints on the object in the first image captured at the first lens position. These keypoints serve as reference points that are then used to measure object dimensions in both the first and second images, simplifying the measurement process by establishing a reference framework before magnification change occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical measurement tools with computational measurement based on image processing. By identifying keypoints in digital images and calculating distances between them, the system determines object dimensions without requiring physical measurement instruments, thereby reducing mechanical complexity.
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
Enables accurate depth map generation with reduced calibration requirements and improved precision by leveraging high-resolution image sensors and optical properties of the lens, effectively determining object depths in a scene using a single camera.
Implementation Method 1
a lens configured to project an image of the scene onto an image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for determining a depth of an object within a scene are provided. Image data of a scene can be captured using a lens configured to project an image of the scene onto an image sensor. The lens has a known focal length and is movable between at least a first lens position and a second lens position. A first image of the scene is captured with the lens at a first lens position, and a second image of the scene is captured with the lens at a second, different position. By measuring a first dimension of the object using the first image and a second dimension of the object using the second image, a depth of the object may be determined based upon a ratio of the first and second dimensions, the focal length of the lens, and a distance between the first and second lens positions.