TOF 3D Object Dimensioning Through Multi-Pose Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually measuring the dimensions of irregularly shaped objects for shipping, storage, or moving is time-consuming and inaccurate, complicating pricing and logistics.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor to capture 3D images of objects from various poses, aligning them in a common coordinate system, and computing dimensions through image stitching and feature extraction to fit a bounding box around the object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to measure object dimensions, then measurement can be performed with simple equipment, but the process is time-consuming and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, rulers) with an automated time-of-flight (TOF) camera system that captures 3D spatial data optically. The TOF camera measures the time for light to travel to and from the object surface, automatically computing dimensions without human intervention, thereby eliminating both measurement time consumption and human error while maintaining high precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the physical object by capturing multiple images from different poses and reconstructing the object's geometry in a common coordinate system. This digital replica allows for automatic dimension extraction without repeated physical measurements, significantly reducing measurement time while preserving measurement accuracy
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual measurement is used for irregularly shaped objects, then measurement can be attempted with basic tools, but the complexity of measuring non-box-shaped objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D image captures to 3D spatial reconstruction by utilizing depth information from multiple TOF images taken from different poses. By aligning these images in a common coordinate system and reconstructing the object in three dimensions, the system can accurately measure irregularly shaped objects regardless of their geometry, as the 3D point cloud captures the complete spatial envelope of the object
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measurement system that can handle any object shape (regular or irregular) using the same automated TOF imaging and 3D reconstruction process. The system binds the object's 3D coordinates to compute dimensions automatically, eliminating the need for different measurement approaches for different object types and reducing process complexity despite increased adaptability
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 measurement of object dimensions, allowing for precise pricing and logistics planning regardless of object shape.
Implementation Method 1
obtain images from a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor for determining dimensions of an object
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include obtaining images from a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor for determining dimensions of an object. A prompt to capture at least one image of an object can be displayed on an interface. At least one image of the object can be captured based on an interaction with the prompt. It can be determined whether multiple images including the at least one image are sufficient for performing object dimensioning, and if so, the images can be provided for performing object dimensioning to compute or display dimensions of the object.