Design and validation of a prism-based single-camera system for multi-viewpoint stereoscopic imaging

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Machine Vision
• 3D Imaging Technology

Background:

• Traditional multi-camera stereoscopic imaging systems necessitate complex synchronization, hindering practical applications.
• The demand for efficient and cost-effective 3D reconstruction solutions in machine vision is growing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a prism-based single-camera stereoscopic imaging system.
• To overcome synchronization challenges inherent in multi-camera setups.
• To demonstrate a compact and efficient solution for 3D reconstruction and defect detection.

Main Methods:

• A novel system utilizing a bonded multi-sub-eye prism structure and plano-convex lenses was designed.
• Prisms were employed to deflect light paths, and lenses ensured parallel beam output.
• A single camera captured four-viewpoint images of small objects for experimental validation.

Main Results:

• The system successfully formed stereo images in four distinct regions on a single image sensor.
• Experimental validation confirmed the feasibility of 3D reconstruction from the captured four-viewpoint images.
• The system demonstrated its capability for machine vision tasks, including defect detection.

Conclusions:

• The prism-based single-camera system offers a viable and simplified approach to stereoscopic imaging.
• This design effectively eliminates synchronization complexities, providing a cost-effective alternative.
• The system holds significant potential for various machine vision applications requiring 3D reconstruction.