Distance measurements with two cameras

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating distances between an object and two CMUcam5 (Pixy) cameras using trigonometric functions. The known distance between the cameras and the focal distance (f) of the lenses are critical variables. The relationship between the distances can be established using similar triangles, specifically through the equations z'/z = x'/d and tan(theta) = d/z. The lack of additional information regarding angles phi and theta limits the calculation options.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their applications in geometry
  • Familiarity with the CMUcam5 (Pixy) camera specifications and setup
  • Knowledge of similar triangles and their properties
  • Basic principles of optics, specifically focal distance (f)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical principles of similar triangles in depth
  • Explore the specifications and capabilities of CMUcam5 (Pixy) cameras
  • Learn about calculating angles in triangles using trigonometric functions
  • Investigate advanced distance measurement techniques using stereo vision
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for robotics engineers, computer vision specialists, and anyone involved in distance measurement and object tracking using multiple camera systems.

tiphaine
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Hello,
I would like to know if there are simple ways (using trigonometric functions) to calculate distances between an object and two cameras.
I am using two CMUcam5 (pixy), closely placed (the distance between the two cameras is known). And I would like to calculate the distance between the object and each camera.
Thank you for your help !
 

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I am not fully understanding your image. It lists f as a known variable, but that is not depicted on the graphic.
Also, are Ln and L2 the locations of your cameras?
Other than x' do you have any other information available about that smaller triangle you drew?
Do you have any information about the angles phi and theta?

The simplest solution I can see is if you know z', you can apply the fact that z'/z = x'/d, since they are similar triangles.
Otherwise, if you knew one of the angles, you could use tan(theta) = d/z, or tan(phi) = z/d to solve for z.
 
f is the focal distance of the two lenses, and L1 and L2 are the locations of the two cameras. We unfortunately don't have any further information on the little triangle nor on the angles.
Thank you for the tips!
 

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