3D Texture Mapping via Multi-Mirror Reflection and Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating texture maps for 3D models of consumer products are labor-intensive and prone to distortion, especially for objects with complex shapes, as they require multiple photographs and precise positioning, limiting scalability and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A three-mirror image capture system that captures multiple views of an object in a single image using a camera and mirrors, allowing for the creation of texture maps without the need for precise object placement, and an image processor that corrects perspective distortions and overlaps to generate accurate texture maps for 3D models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple photographs are captured from different angles and stitched together to create texture maps, then the texture map completeness is improved, but the labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mirrors to capture reflections of the object from different angles simultaneously in a single photograph. Instead of moving the camera to multiple positions (spatial dimension), the system uses optical reflections to obtain multiple views at once, effectively adding an optical dimension to the capture process. This resolves the contradiction by achieving complete texture coverage without increasing the number of photographs or manual stitching work.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple object views (direct view and reflected views from multiple mirrors) into a single photograph. By merging the information from different angles into one image, the system eliminates the need for multiple separate photographs and subsequent stitching operations, thereby improving productivity while maintaining texture map completeness.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional multi-photograph methods are used, then comprehensive object coverage is achieved, but the process becomes extremely labor intensive for large product inventories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing all necessary object views (direct and reflected) in a single photograph before any processing occurs. This eliminates the need for sequential photographing and stitching operations, dramatically reducing the time required per product while ensuring complete object coverage is achieved from the initial capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses mirrors to create optical copies of the object from different angles. These reflected copies provide additional views of the object without requiring physical movement or multiple photographs, enabling comprehensive coverage while minimizing the time and effort needed for each product processing.
3Productivity
If a single photograph is used, then the processing time is reduced, but the texture map accuracy and completeness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mirrors as intermediaries between the object and the camera sensor. These mirrors enable the capture of reflected views that would otherwise require multiple camera positions, allowing a single photograph to contain accurate and complete texture information from multiple angles without sacrificing 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
Enables efficient and accurate creation of texture maps for 3D models from a single image, reducing manual labor and distortion, and allowing for the production of high-volume digital representations of products with improved scalability and precision.
Implementation Method 1
An image of a field of view including a direct view of a target object and a reflected view of the target object from a reflected surface is captured by a camera
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A system for generating texture maps for 3D models of real-world objects includes a camera and reflective surfaces in the field of view of the camera. The reflective surfaces are positioned to reflect one or more reflected views of a target object to the camera. The camera captures a direct image of the target object and reflected images from the reflective surfaces. An image processor device separates the reflected views/images from the direct image of the target object in the captured image by detecting distortion in the reflected views. The image processor reduces distortion in the reflected views, and generates a texture map based on 3D space characteristics of the target object and on the reflected views. Reducing distortion in the reflected views may include scaling the reflected views to correspond to a size of the target object in the camera field of view.