Single Camera Distance Measurement Using Device Positioning Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring distance using smart mobile phones are limited by their portability and size, making it difficult to accurately measure objects at long distances.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an electronic device with an image collection unit that captures images at two different positions, determining displaying areas in each image to calculate the actual distance to the object, allowing for flexible positioning without size constraints and using one camera instead of two, which simplifies hardware and reduces errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two cameras are used to capture images at different angles for distance measurement, then the measurement capability is improved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the distance measurement function from a dual-camera system and implements it using a single camera combined with electronic device positioning data. The measurement capability is separated from the imaging hardware, allowing distance measurement without requiring two cameras mounted on the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the electronic device's positioning information (GPS, inertial navigation) - to bridge the gap between a single camera and the distance measurement function that traditionally required two cameras. This intermediary provides the baseline distance information needed for stereoscopic calculation.
2Measurement precision
If the distance between two cameras is increased to measure long distances, then the measurement range is improved, but the device portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a spatial solution (increasing physical distance between cameras) to a temporal and informational solution (using positioning data from another dimension - the electronic device's location). This allows long-distance measurement capability without increasing the physical dimensions of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the electronic device's positioning information as a copy or substitute for the physical baseline that would traditionally be provided by two cameras. Instead of physically separating cameras, the system copies the baseline information from the electronic device's known position and uses it for distance calculation.
3Device complexity
If a single camera is used instead of two cameras, then the hardware complexity is reduced, but the measurement accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate functions - single-camera imaging and electronic device positioning - into a unified distance measurement system. By combining the visual data from the camera with the positional data from GPS and inertial navigation, the system achieves accurate distance measurement with simpler hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters used for distance calculation from purely optical parameters (two camera positions) to a hybrid set including electronic positioning parameters (GPS coordinates, inertial data). This parameter substitution maintains measurement accuracy while reducing hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method for measuring a distance. The method may comprise: controlling an image collection unit to collect an image of an object at a measuring position to obtain a first picture including the object; determining a first displaying area of the object in the first picture; controlling the image collection unit to collect an image of the object at a reference position to obtain a second picture including the object, the measuring position being different from the reference position; determining a second displaying area of the object in the second picture; obtaining a first actual distance from the measuring position to the reference position; and determining a second actual distance from the object to the measuring position based on the first displaying area, the second displaying area and the first actual distance. Meanwhile, the present disclosure further discloses an electronic device.