Method and apparatus for calibrating three-dimensional space for machine vision applications
AssigneeMinnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
InventorsMark J. Brady, Darin G. Cerny
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A calibration apparatus for calibrating three-dimensional space for a machine vision system and a method for using the calibration apparatus for calibrating the machine vision system are disclosed. The calibration apparatus comprises pairs of indicators, such as lights, mounted on a frame, each pair of lights separated by a known horizontal distance. The calibration apparatus may be mounted on the back of a vehicle that moves the apparatus through a roadway scene at a known speed. A machine vision system tracks the calibration apparatus, specifically the pairs of lights mounted on the frame, and maps the pixel space of the machine vision system to three-dimensional space.
Claims4
A method for calibrating a three-dimensional space, said method for use with a machine vision system, said machine vision system including tracking means for tracking objects within said three-dimensional space, said method comprising the steps of:
- a) moving at least one pair of indicators spaced apart by a known distance through said three-dimensional space at a known speed;
- b) tracking said at least one pair of indicators with said tracking means through said three-dimensional space;
- and
- c) mapping pixel space to said three-dimensional space based on the location of said at least one pair of indicators within said pixel space and said known, constant speed of said at least one pair of indicators.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.