DETERMINING THE ORIENTATION OF OBJECTS IN SPACE

摘要

A method and system determines object orientation using a light source to create a shadow line extending from the light source. A camera captures an image including the shadow line on an object surface. An orientation module determines the surface orientation from the shadow line. In some examples a transparency imperfection in a window through which a camera receives light can be detected and a message sent to a user as to the presence of a light-blocking or light-distorting substance or particle. A system can control illumination while imaging an object in space using a light source mounted to a support structure so a camera captures an image of the illuminated object. Direct illumination of the camera by light from the light source can be prevented such as by blocking the light or using a light-transmissive window adjacent the camera to reject light transmitted directly from the light source.

主权项

1. A method for determining an orientation of an object in space, the method comprising:
operating a light source to create a shadow line extending from the light source; capturing, using a camera, an image comprising an object intersecting the shadow line; analyzing the image to determine a position of the shadow line on the object; and determining an orientation of the object based at least in part on the position of the shadow line.