Stereo Range Lidar Correction Hybrid System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional range imaging methods using stereo imagery and Lidar face challenges in achieving high-resolution shape information at large distances due to physical limitations of range scanners, which result in significant errors and longer data collection times.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that combines stereo imaging with Lidar technology, using a processor and memory to receive and process images from different axes, align a laser beam with the imaging system, and establish accurate distance estimates, thereby extending range accuracy and filling gaps between Lidar samples with stereo imagery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stereo imagery is used for range calculation, then the system can provide distance information, but small angular separation between image capture locations causes small errors to propagate to significant errors in range estimate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines stereo imagery with Lidar technology into an integrated system. The imaging system captures stereo images while the Lidar system simultaneously measures distances using laser time-of-flight. By merging these two independent measurement systems, the patent achieves accurate range estimation without requiring large angular separations or extended image collection times, as each system compensates for the other's limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a processor as an intermediary to fuse data from both the imaging system and Lidar system. The processor correlates features detected in stereo images with corresponding Lidar range measurements, creating a unified depth map that leverages the complementary strengths of both systems to achieve high precision without the drawbacks of either system used alone
2Measurement precision
If Lidar range scanner is used for distance measurement, then precise distance measurements can be obtained, but physical limitations constrain the maximum spatial resolution and decrease resolution with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges Lidar range data with stereo imagery to create a hybrid measurement system. The Lidar provides accurate distance measurements along its scan lines, while the stereo imagery provides continuous spatial coverage and contextual information. This combination allows the system to maintain high spatial resolution at greater distances by using stereo image features to interpolate between Lidar samples and extend effective resolution beyond what either system could achieve alone
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the temporal dimension by collecting and processing data from both systems simultaneously. By fusing spatial information from stereo images with range information from Lidar in real-time, the system creates a multi-dimensional data structure that enables high-resolution depth mapping at extended ranges, effectively adding a dimension of information that compensates for the degradation of individual systems
3Measurement precision
If larger angular separation is used in stereo imaging, then range estimate accuracy improves, but the time to collect two images increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines stereo imaging with simultaneous Lidar measurement to achieve accurate range estimation without requiring large angular separations. The Lidar system provides independent distance measurements that are correlated with stereo image features, allowing the system to maintain high accuracy even with small baseline separations, thereby enabling faster image collection while preserving measurement precision
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
This combination allows for faster and more accurate distance determination to target areas, improving spatial resolution and coverage, especially at longer ranges, while reducing the size, weight, power, and cost of Lidar systems.
Implementation Method 1
The distance to an object is then determined by analyzing the laser signal through various techniques
Implementation Method 2
Lidar transceivers operate on the principle of transmitting laser light that then reflects off of a given object and returns to a Lidar receiver
Implementation Method 3
A Lidar system includes at least one laser configured to direct an optical beam to the target area
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for determining a distance to a target area includes an imaging system configured to provide at least two images of a target area. The images are associated with different imaging axes. A Lidar system including at least one laser is configured to direct an optical beam to the target and an optical detection system configured to receive a portion of the optical beam from the target area and establish a distance to the target area based on the received portion.