Calibration simulation for stereoscopic optical systems using optical design software

Abstract

To reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) structure of objects and measure their geometric parameters using stereoscopic imaging systems, it is necessary to implement a number of image processing algorithms. For higher system efficiency, the choice of these algorithms and mathematical models should be taken into account at the stage of optical system design. We demonstrate the capabilities of optical design software to perform computer simulation of geometrical calibration for stereoscopic systems. The simulation allows comparison of mathematical models used for 3D reconstruction and estimation of 3D measurements errors caused by tolerances of optical elements, temperature variations and other factors. Using this technique, we analyze the design of prism-based stereoscopic system and show that the proposed ray tracing camera model considering pupil aberrations provides higher measurement precision. The results of computer simulation are confirmed by experiments with the self-developed stereoscopic system.