Stereo Camera Toe-In Control for Accurate 3D Parallax
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjusting the view of multiple cameras to align with objects effectively for creating a sensible 3D stereoscopic image is challenging, particularly in ensuring accurate parallax adjustment.
Innovation Solution
The system employs two cameras with an electromechanical adjustment mechanism, an electronic distance measurement sensor, image processing software, and a correlation algorithm to adjust the parallax, or 'toe-in', of the cameras to create an accurately fused 3D stereoscopic image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the angle of each camera to the input is increased to improve parallax adjustment, then the 3D stereoscopic image quality is improved, but the image alignment accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of camera angles through an electromechanical control system that can modify the toe-in angle of each camera independently. This allows the system to adapt camera positioning based on measured distances to objects, optimizing parallax for different viewing scenarios while maintaining image alignment through real-time control adjustments rather than fixed mechanical positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller receives information about object distance and camera positioning, then automatically adjusts the camera angles to achieve optimal parallax. The feedback loop ensures that image alignment is maintained despite angle adjustments by continuously monitoring and correcting positioning based on measured parameters
2Reliability
If multiple cameras are used to create 3D stereoscopic images, then the depth perception is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cameras into a unified stereoscopic imaging system with a single controller that coordinates their operation. The controller integrates distance measurement data and simultaneously manages the positioning of both cameras, merging their functions into a coordinated system that achieves accurate depth perception while managing complexity through centralized control rather than independent camera systems
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it measures distances to objects, calculates optimal camera angles, adjusts camera positioning, and coordinates image capture from both cameras. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating control tasks into a single device rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each camera
3Measurement precision
If the electromechanical control adjusts camera positioning dynamically, then the parallax accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electromechanical control system that uses electronic signals to position cameras. Instead of purely mechanical linkages and manual adjustment devices, the system uses electric motors or actuators controlled by a microcontroller, reducing mechanical complexity while improving positioning precision through electronic control
Data Source
AI summary
A toe-in system allows for electromechanical control to adjust the parallax, or “toe-in”, of two cameras to create an accurately fused 3D stereoscopic image. The system includes of two cameras, an electromechanical adjustment mechanism, an electronic method of distance measurement, image processing software, and a correlation algorithm. The two cameras are to be mounted equidistant from the center axis of the device, with the electromechanical control method attached to each camera independently, or dependently. The cameras may be mounted in a manner that allows for restricted movement by the electromechanical drive mechanism. The electronic distance measurement sensor measures the distance from the objective to the cameras image capturing sensor or center of rotation. With the distance and the kinematic parameters of the electromechanical drive method being known, a correlation algorithm calculates the required quantity of “toe-in” needed to create a fused, stereoscopic, 3D, image.