Single-Camera Multi-View Imaging Using an Internal Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging methods for objects are time-consuming and expensive, often requiring multiple cameras or complex 3D systems to capture views outside the camera's imaging plane, and fail to efficiently image rear or obstructed views of objects.
Innovation Solution
A device using a single two-dimensional camera with a reflective element arranged within the object space to create a second viewing direction, allowing simultaneous imaging of an object from two different perspectives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras or complex 3D systems are used to capture views outside the camera's imaging plane, then imaging accuracy for rear or obstructed views is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A reflective element (mirror) is introduced as an intermediary optical component to redirect light from regions outside the camera's direct imaging plane into the camera's field of view. This allows the single camera to capture rear or obstructed views of the object that would otherwise require additional cameras positioned in difficult-to-reach locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective element creates a virtual imaging path that adds a second viewing dimension. By reflecting light at specific angles, the system effectively transforms the single-camera setup into a multi-view system, allowing capture of object surfaces from multiple spatial perspectives without adding physical cameras in those positions.
2Loss of information
If multiple cameras are used to image objects from different views, then comprehensive object coverage is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single camera system with reflective element performs multiple imaging functions that would otherwise require separate cameras. The reflective element enables the same camera to capture both direct views and reflected views of the object, making the imaging system universal in its ability to capture multiple perspectives with a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple viewing perspectives are merged into a single camera's field of view through the reflective element. Instead of using separate cameras for direct and rear views, the system combines these imaging paths optically, allowing one camera to capture information that would traditionally require multiple cameras.
3Device complexity
If a single camera is used for imaging, then device simplicity is improved, but ability to capture views outside imaging plane deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective element acts as an optical intermediary that expands the single camera's viewing capabilities. It redirects light from angles outside the camera's direct field of view into the imaging plane, allowing the simple single-camera setup to achieve the adaptability of a multi-camera system.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective element adds a second optical path dimension to the single camera system. By introducing reflected light paths at different angles, the system achieves multi-view capability without compromising the simplicity of using only one camera device.
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 cost-effective and accurate imaging of both the primary and secondary views of an object, including rear or obstructed areas, using a simple setup with a single camera, enhancing imaging accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one reflective element (40), wherein the reflective element is at least partly arranged within the object space of the imaging optical element (20), wherein the optical axis (21) of the imaging optical element (20) is associated with a first view of the object (10), and wherein the reflective element (40) is operable to image a second view of the object (10), which is different from the first view
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a device and to a method for imaging an object in at least two views. The device and the method can be used, for example, for teaching-in or monitoring a robot or for monitoring handling systems or, more generally, with devices which require imaging of an object for an analysis or a monitoring process. The device allows an object to be imaged in at least two different views simultaneously, comprising at least one imaging optical element and at least one reflective element, wherein the reflective element is at least partly arranged within an object space of the imaging optical element, an optical axis of the imaging optical element being associated with a first view of the object, and wherein the reflective element is operable to image a second view of the object, which is different from the first view.