Stereo Camera Calibration via User-Aligned Temporary Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for correcting display errors in stereo imaging due to misalignment of optical positions in stereo cameras require adjustment patterns, making it difficult for users to adjust the display positions of stereo images, especially after external shocks or aging, which can change the camera's optical position.
Innovation Solution
A computer-readable storage medium with an information processing program that allows users to easily adjust the display positions of stereo images by taking temporary images, calculating correction values based on user-input movements, and storing these values for correcting the display positions of stereo images, enabling stereoscopic visibility without the need for adjustment patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If adjustment patterns are used for correcting display errors in stereo imaging, then the correction accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users cannot easily perform the adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a photograph of the actual imaging target captured by the stereo camera as an adjustment image, rather than requiring a separate adjustment pattern. This copying approach allows users to adjust display positions using familiar visual content from their own imaging tasks, eliminating the need to prepare or locate specific adjustment patterns while maintaining correction accuracy through direct visual comparison of the captured images from both cameras
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to perform self-adjustment of display positions using the adjustment images generated from their own captured photographs. Users can independently move and align the adjustment images on the display screen without requiring manufacturer intervention or specialized calibration equipment, enabling them to correct display errors themselves based on visual feedback from the captured images
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustment patterns are required for correction, then the manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the device complexity increases due to the need for separate adjustment materials
Solution Approach 1:
The captured photograph serves multiple functions: it is both the imaging result and the adjustment image. The same image data captured by the stereo camera is used for both preserving the imaging content and for aligning the display positions of both cameras. This eliminates the need for separate adjustment patterns or calibration materials, reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve precise optical alignment correction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the adjustment image preparation step with the normal imaging process. Instead of requiring a separate adjustment pattern and a separate adjustment process, the system combines both functions by using the captured image itself as the adjustment reference. This integration eliminates additional components and steps, reducing device complexity while preserving manufacturing precision through the alignment process
3Reliability
If the optical position of the stereo camera changes due to external shock or aging, then the reliability of the imaging system deteriorates, but the ease of repair can be improved if user-adjustable correction is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to perform self-recalibration when optical position changes occur due to external shock or aging. Users can capture new adjustment images, move them on the display screen to align the images from both cameras, and have the correction values automatically calculated and stored. This self-service recalibration capability eliminates the need for professional service intervention, making the system easy to repair and maintain while compensating for reliability degradation from position drift
4Manufacturing precision
If conventional correction methods are used, then the manufacturing precision can be ensured, but the productivity decreases because users cannot easily perform adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses copies of the actual captured images as adjustment images, allowing users to immediately perform adjustments without seeking external adjustment patterns. Users can capture images and begin the adjustment process right away using the captured content itself, eliminating time spent searching for or preparing adjustment materials while maintaining display position accuracy through the alignment of the captured image pairs
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment process can be performed continuously and independently by users at any time without requiring manufacturer involvement. Users can capture images, adjust display positions, and store correction values in a continuous workflow. The system maintains the ability to achieve precise manufacturing-level correction while enabling continuous user-driven adjustment operations, significantly improving productivity compared to batch manufacturing-only correction methods
Data Source
AI summary
A first temporary taken image taken by a first imaging section of a stereo imaging section, and a second temporary taken image taken by a second imaging section of the stereo imaging section are displayed on a display section. A user aligns the display position of the first temporary taken image with the display position of the second temporary taken image, by moving the first temporary taken image displayed on the display section. Based on the result of the movement, the display positions of two images composing a stereo image taken with the stereo camera are corrected, and the stereo image is displayed on the display section in a stereoscopically visible manner.