Distance measurements with two cameras

In summary, the conversation discusses using trigonometric functions to calculate distances between an object and two closely placed CMUcam5 cameras. The known variables include f as the focal distance and L1 and L2 as the camera locations. The speaker also mentions using the fact that z'/z = x'/d for similar triangles, and using tan(theta) = d/z or tan(phi) = z/d if one of the angles is known. However, there is no further information available about the smaller triangle or the angles.
  • #1
tiphaine
2
0
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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  • #2
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.
 
  • #3
f is the focal distance of the two lenses, and L1 and L2 are the locations of the two cameras. We unfortunatly don't have any further information on the little triangle nor on the angles.
Thank you for the tips!
 

1. How do two cameras measure distance?

Two cameras can measure distance by using triangulation, which is a method of determining the distance of an object by measuring the angles between two lines of sight to the object from two different locations. The cameras capture images of the same object from different perspectives, and the distance can be calculated using the known distance between the cameras and the angles formed by the object in each image.

2. What factors can affect the accuracy of distance measurements with two cameras?

There are several factors that can affect the accuracy of distance measurements with two cameras, including the distance between the cameras, the angles at which the images are taken, the resolution of the cameras, and any distortion or noise in the images. Additionally, lighting conditions and the type of object being measured can also impact the accuracy of the measurements.

3. Can two cameras measure distance in any environment?

Two cameras can measure distance in most environments, but they may not be as accurate in certain conditions. For example, if the object being measured is not easily distinguishable or has a complex shape, it may be more difficult for the cameras to accurately capture its image and calculate the distance. Similarly, if the lighting is poor or there is a lot of background noise, the measurements may be less precise.

4. What are the advantages of using two cameras for distance measurements?

Using two cameras for distance measurements allows for more accurate and precise results compared to using only one camera. It also allows for measuring distances of objects that are not easily accessible or are in motion. Additionally, two cameras can provide a 3D perspective, which can be useful for certain applications such as robotics or virtual reality.

5. What are some common applications of distance measurements with two cameras?

Distance measurements with two cameras have a wide range of applications, including object tracking, 3D scanning, augmented and virtual reality, depth sensing, and autonomous navigation. They are also commonly used in industries such as robotics, construction, and medical imaging.

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