Ultra-compact stereo camera
Ricoh has developed an ultra-compact stereo camera the size of a thumb. It has done so by combining high-precision packaging technology for integrated sensors and lenses, calibration technology, and parallax computation technology.
Ultra-compact stereo camera features
A stereo camera detects distance using two CMOS image sensors; Ricoh stereo cameras boast a high-precision range performance of ±3% at a distance of 20 cm in an unprecedentedly compact and lightweight package. As a result, our stereo cameras can be built into various devices to accurately capture the presence and size of target objects. Application is possible in such fields as factory automation (FA), automotive, and security.
Figure 1: Exterior of camera head realized in an ultra-compact, thumb-sized package
With this stereo camera, a monochrome image and a distance image can be acquired simultaneously. By jointly using a distance image and a image during recognition processing, high-precision and high-speed image recognition becomes possible.
Figure 2: Example output image
Overview of technology
Ricoh has realized a stereo camera that is highly precise while still being compact—about the size of a thumb. This was made possible by combining a highly compact integrated sensor with laser welding technology, calibration technology, and parallax computation technology that enables fast processing. With laser welding technology, Ricoh has successfully eliminated misalignments due to shrinkage during adhesive hardening. Quality fluctuations resulting from varying amounts of applied adhesive have also been eliminated. Further, unlike adhesives that require time to harden, laser welding enables instant assembly, making it possible to significantly reduce the time required for assembly. In addition, Ricoh has achieved its proprietary calibration technology by fusing optical design with image processing technology, and has improved accuracy across the entire image area.
Ultra-compact stereo camera applications
Usage scenario 1: embedding in equipment
Extraordinarily compact, stereo cameras can be embedded in varied equipment. For example, potential applications include attaching a stereo camera to the end of a robot arm to measure distance and accurately grasp objects, or embedding a stereo camera into a mobile device or television for gesture recognition.
Figure 3: Usage scenario for embedding in equipment
Usage scenario 2: embedding in small spaces
Extraordinarily compact, our stereo cameras can be installed in small spaces, inside walls for example. When combined with recognition processing based on distance images and luma images, highly precise high-speed image recognition becomes possible, enabling use in security applications such as screening passersby.
Figure 4: Usage scenario for embedding in small spaces
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