Stereoscopic Camera Single-Stream Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-camera stereoscopic systems are cumbersome, costly, and difficult to operate, with issues related to stereoscopic alignment, image processing, and synchronization, leading to suboptimal 3D viewing experiences and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A compact stereoscopic camera with an integrated Stereoscopic Image Acquisition Device (SIAD) that acquires and transfers high-resolution, real-time stereoscopic image data in a single data stream, allowing for single-user operation and eliminating the need for protruding elements and multiple cables, with features for adjustable interpupillary distance, convergence, and image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two independent cameras are used for stereoscopic imaging, then stereoscopic image acquisition is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent camera systems into a single integrated camera unit. The single camera performs both left and right eye image capture through internal optical path splitting, eliminating the need for two separate cameras, multiple cables, and dual control units. This integration directly reduces device complexity while maintaining stereoscopic image acquisition capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single camera system is designed to perform multiple functions: it captures both left and right stereoscopic images, provides individual control for each view (focus, brightness, contrast, iris), and outputs synchronized image streams. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required two separate camera systems, reducing operational difficulty while maintaining full stereoscopic capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two cameras are mounted on a binocular, then stereoscopic viewing is enabled, but the cameras protrude and interfere with workspace apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the stereoscopic imaging functionality within a single camera housing rather than mounting two cameras externally. The optical path splitter and dual image sensors are integrated inside the single camera body, eliminating protruding elements. This allows the device to fit into confined workspaces without interfering with other apparatuses while maintaining full stereoscopic viewing capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If two cameras with individual controls are used, then each camera can be optimized, but the device becomes unwieldy and difficult to operate by a single user
Solution Approach 1:
The single camera system provides universal control mechanisms that manage both left and right image streams through a unified interface. A single user can adjust focus, brightness, contrast, and iris settings for both views simultaneously or independently through one control unit, eliminating the unwieldy dual-control setup while maintaining the ability to optimize each camera's performance.
4Loss of information
If two cameras are used with multiple cables and connectors, then image data can be transferred, but reliability decreases and installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the image data output from both left and right views into a single cable connection. The integrated camera system processes and outputs synchronized stereoscopic image streams through one unified interface, eliminating multiple cables and connectors. This reduces installation complexity and improves reliability by removing potential failure points associated with multiple connection points.
5Measurement precision
If two independent cameras are used, then stereoscopic alignment can be achieved, but precise positioning of imaging sensors becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single camera with internal optical path splitting to achieve stereoscopic alignment. Since both image streams originate from the same sensor and optical system, precise positioning and alignment are built-in by design rather than requiring post-assembly adjustment. This eliminates the time-consuming process of aligning two separate cameras while maintaining measurement precision for stereoscopic imaging.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides new and improved methods for acquiring stereoscopic image data and, in particular, stereoscopic images of a location. Some of the benefits of these methods include acquiring by a single user, without producing one or more substantially abrupt transitions in or between respective views or images, or capability for interactive adjustment of image aspects including interpupillary distance and convergence. The invention is capable of producing high resolution, real-time image data while avoiding or mitigating the deleterious effects of spurious parallax.