Stereo Camera Pupil Diameter Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining pupil diameter are imprecise and require fixation objects or laboratory conditions, limiting their applicability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A method using a stereo camera system to capture stereoscopic images of the eye region, processing them to detect the pupil edge and center, and calculating the diameter through triangulation, allowing for precise measurement without the need for fixation objects in natural environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current methods are used to determine pupil diameter, then the measurement can be performed, but the precision is low and fixation objects or laboratory conditions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D monocular imaging to 3D stereoscopic imaging by using two cameras positioned at different locations. This dimensional change enables accurate pupil diameter measurement without requiring fixation objects, as the stereoscopic parallax provides depth information that allows the system to calculate the actual pupil size from the captured images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical fixation object system with a computational approach. Instead of using physical reference objects or laboratory equipment, the system uses image processing algorithms that analyze the stereoscopic images to automatically detect the pupil edge and calculate diameter, eliminating the need for mechanical fixation aids.
2Measurement precision
If fixation objects or laboratory equipment are used, then measurement can be performed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system universal by enabling it to perform both stereoscopic 3D capture and pupil diameter measurement functions. The same imaging system used for general 3D visualization also serves as the measurement tool, eliminating the need for separate specialized pupillometer equipment and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the natural optical properties of the eye and the inherent information in the stereoscopic images to perform self-measurement. The pupil's own optical characteristics (edge contrast, shape) are exploited by the image processing algorithm, allowing the system to measure itself without requiring external reference objects or additional measurement apparatus.
3Measurement precision
If traditional pupillometers are used, then pupil diameter can be measured, but head fixation and laboratory conditions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic measurement system that adapts to natural head movements and positions. Unlike fixed laboratory pupillometers, the stereoscopic camera system can capture images while the subject moves naturally, and the image processing algorithm adjusts to determine pupil diameter from varying angles and distances, enabling operation in flexible natural environments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the pupil diameter (270) of an eye with high accuracy by means of a camera system (300) for the three-dimensional capture of objects, said method comprising: Imaging stereoscopic capture (10) of an eye region (100), resulting in a first and a second stereoscopic image (110, 111) for an eye of the eye region (100). For each of the stereoscopic images (110, 111), the method furthermore comprises the following steps: Transformation (11) of the captured eye region (100) to a color space (120). Determination (17) of an area (130), within the captured eye region (100), as an area (130) within a pupil (200) of the captured eye region (100). Determination (18) of a closed outer edge (140) of the area (130) within the pupil (200). Iterative determination (20) of a closed outer pupil edge (150). The invention further relates to a corresponding apparatus.