Stereo Camera Calibration Using Automated Screen Target Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera calibration methods in surgical environments, such as the operating room, are time-consuming and require significant staff interaction, making them inefficient and burdensome for pre-surgical preparations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for calibrating cameras using electronically displayed calibration targets that change automatically, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the pattern by staff, and utilizing a fixed camera-screen pose to simplify the calibration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration patterns are used with staff movement, then calibration accuracy is achieved, but calibration time and staff burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manually moving physical calibration patterns with an automated electronic display system. The calibration pattern is projected onto a screen that can be moved automatically or positioned fixedly, eliminating the need for staff to manually translate and rotate physical patterns while maintaining calibration accuracy through precise electronic control of pattern positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs self-calibration by automatically capturing images of the calibration pattern at multiple poses without requiring staff intervention. The system autonomously executes the calibration sequence, processes the captured images, and computes calibration parameters, thereby serving itself and eliminating staff burden while achieving accurate calibration results.
2Ease of operation
If manual calibration pattern manipulation is required, then calibration can be performed, but operational complexity and staff involvement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual mechanical manipulation of calibration patterns with automated electronic control. The electronic display system automatically positions and presents calibration patterns at required poses, eliminating the need for staff to manually handle and reposition physical patterns, thereby simplifying operation while the system manages the complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic display (screen) as an intermediary between the calibration system and the camera. This intermediary automatically presents the calibration pattern in various poses without requiring direct manual manipulation, simplifying the user interface while the system handles the complexity of pattern presentation and positioning automatically.
3Productivity
If fixed camera-screen pose is used, then calibration speed increases, but calibration flexibility may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic calibration system where the screen can be positioned at multiple fixed poses relative to the camera. While each individual calibration run uses a fixed camera-screen pose for speed, the system can reconfigure between multiple predetermined poses, providing flexibility through programmable pose selection while maintaining high calibration speed during each execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures multiple fixed camera-screen poses in advance. During calibration, the system rapidly switches between these pre-established positions without requiring real-time adjustment, thereby maintaining high calibration speed while offering flexibility through the ability to select from multiple pre-planned configurations suitable for different surgical scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
In a system and method of calibrating a stereoscopic camera, a target pattern is electronically displayed on a display. The camera to be calibrated captures images of the target pattern using a stereoscopic camera while the displayed target pattern is altered over time. The captured images are analyzed and calibration parameters for the stereoscopic camera are determined.