Two Source Active Sensor for 3D Vision Distortion Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic vision systems struggle to accurately obtain 3D surface information of a scene using a limited number of pixels, which can lead to distortions and inadequate feedback in applications like robotics and vehicle landing, especially when the sensor or scene is moving.
Innovation Solution
Employing a sensor system with two offset electromagnetic energy sources that illuminate a scene sequentially, allowing the sensor to collect intensity images from each source, and processing these images to calculate the 3D location of each pixel using a focal plane array with multiple mega pixels, enabling precise 3D vision and reducing distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a limited number of pixels is used in the sensor system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of 3D surface information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D image capture to 3D surface reconstruction by introducing temporal dimension through sequential illumination with two electromagnetic energy sources at different wavelengths. This allows the system to extract depth information without increasing spatial pixel density, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor or scene is moving, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the measurement precision of 3D location deteriorates due to distortions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sequential illumination with two electromagnetic energy sources at different wavelengths to capture images at multiple time points. This periodic sampling allows the system to track and compensate for motion-induced distortions, maintaining measurement precision while adapting to moving sensors or scenes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the processor analyzes images captured at different time points and uses the known geometric relationship between the two electromagnetic energy sources to calculate and correct for motion distortions. This feedback loop maintains 3D location accuracy even during motion.
3Measurement precision
If two electromagnetic energy sources are used instead of one, then the measurement precision of 3D vision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the wavelength parameter of electromagnetic energy by using two sources with different wavelengths rather than increasing the number of spatial illumination points. This parameter-based approach enables 3D vision measurement while keeping the physical configuration relatively simple, as the sources can be positioned at offset locations rather than requiring complex multi-point arrays.
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 approach provides accurate 3D surface information with reduced distortion, enabling tighter feedback and control in applications such as robotics and vehicle landing, using hardware that is easily obtainable and suitable for various contexts.
Implementation Method 1
two electromagnetic energy sources offset from each other that illuminate a scene sequentially, allowing the sensor to collect intensity images from each source
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture for determining a ranges from sensor pixels to corresponding scene points.