Strobing Active Marker Groups for Performance Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional performance capture systems face challenges in distinguishing and processing data from multiple active markers in a live action scene, leading to inefficiencies and errors due to interference from other light sources and complex spatial arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A data capture system that uses distinct light patterns and synchronization with the performance capture system to identify and differentiate between groups of active markers, allowing for reliable communication and data extraction, thereby simplifying the identification and tracking of markers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple active markers are used in a live action scene, then the quantity of captured data increases, but the difficulty of distinguishing and identifying individual markers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different strobe patterns (temporal variations) to different groups of active markers, analogous to using color changes for identification. Each group emits light in a unique temporal pattern that allows the capture system to distinguish between multiple markers simultaneously present in the scene.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic strobe patterns where different groups of active markers emit light at different intervals and phases. This periodic action with varying characteristics enables the system to differentiate between multiple markers through temporal analysis of the captured light signals.
2Reliability
If traditional continuous light emission is used by active markers, then the markers are always visible, but energy consumption increases and interference from other light sources worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms continuous light emission into periodic strobe patterns where active markers emit light only at specific intervals. This reduces energy consumption significantly compared to continuous emission while maintaining reliability through the unique temporal signatures that enable identification during the strobe intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of light interference into a benefit by using temporal patterning. The strobe patterns create distinct temporal signatures that allow the system to differentiate desired marker light from interfering light sources through pattern recognition, turning interference into a distinguishable signal.
3Productivity
If multiple groups of active markers emit light simultaneously, then data capture is comprehensive, but the ability to distinguish and process data from individual groups decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different periodic strobe patterns to different groups of active markers, enabling simultaneous emission while maintaining distinguishability. Each group's unique temporal pattern allows the capture system to process and separate data from multiple groups concurrently without loss of identification information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the light emission temporal space by assigning different strobe patterns to different marker groups. This temporal segmentation allows comprehensive data capture from all groups simultaneously while maintaining the ability to distinguish and process each group's data separately through pattern recognition.
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
The system enhances the reliability and efficiency of data capture by filtering out interfering lights and reducing energy consumption, enabling quick and accurate identification of active markers within a single cycle of the picture camera.
Implementation Method 1
a first pattern is specified for a first group of active markers to emit light of at least one wavelength. A second pattern is also specified for a second group of active markers to emit light of at least one wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
The present description relates to light patterns used in a live action scene of a visual production to encode information associated with objects in the scene, such as movement and position of the objects. A data capture system is enabled to differentiate between various groups of active markers attached to the objects in the scene. The groups of active markers emit particular wavelengths in strobing patterns predefined for the various groups. In some implementations, the groups are instructed to emit its assigned signature light pattern through a signal controller transmitting an initial key signature predefined for the group, followed by pattern signals to a control unit. The data representing the pattern is captured in illuminated and blank frames. Frames showing the light pattern are analyzed to extract information about the groups of active markers, such as distinguishing the groups and identifying the objects to which they are attached.