Mini Manual

Manual for Portable Photogrammetry System

Overview

This portable photogrammetry system is designed to capture high-resolution images for 3D model reconstruction. The system includes multiple cameras arranged on a configurable rig, which can be triggered remotely for synchronized image capture. It is battery-operated and intended for dynamic, handheld use.

Setup

  1. Assemble the Rig
    Securely mount the cameras on the rig using the provided clamps and brackets. Ensure they are evenly spaced and angled toward the subject.
  2. Attach Lighting
    • Ring Lights: Attach the ring lights to the front of each camera using the snap-on mounting brackets. These lights provide uniform illumination directly from the camera’s perspective, reducing shadows. Note that ring lights will last for approximately 90 minutes of continuous photography, so plan your sessions accordingly.
    • Mini Lights: Attach mini lights to the side of the camera mounts using the quick clamps with mini-ball connectors. These lights can be angled to fill in shadows and highlight specific areas of the subject.
    • Large Panel Light: If using the largest rig setup, attach the large panel light to the mounting brackets located near the middle of the rig. This light provides broad, even illumination across the entire subject, ideal for larger or more complex objects.
  3. Battery Check
    Ensure all cameras and lights are fully charged before use. Proper battery charge is crucial for uninterrupted operation. Replace or recharge batteries as needed.

Dynamic Positioning

Since the rig is handheld, position it dynamically during image capture. Move smoothly around the subject, adjusting the rig’s position to capture different angles while keeping a steady hand.

Image Capture

  1. Interval Settings
    Select the appropriate interval setting based on speed, distance from the subject, and the camera’s ability to shuttle images to the hard drive:

    • Low Speed (0.5 seconds): Suitable for slower movements or when capturing from a greater distance, allowing the camera more time to transfer images.
    • Medium Speed (0.25 seconds): Best for close scans over short periods. However, be aware that at this speed, the system may begin to overwhelm its ability to save images after approximately 100 photos per camera. When this occurs, the system will take photos at the next available opportunity, potentially slowing down the capture process. This setting can result in thousands of photos being taken very quickly, so it’s crucial to monitor storage capacity and plan intervals to download the data from the cameras to another storage device to avoid overloading the system.
  2. Camera Settings
    Properly set the ISO, aperture, and shutter speed:

    • Shutter Speed: A shutter speed of 1/125 of a second is recommended as the lower end setting. Increase the shutter speed as lighting allows to further minimize motion blur. Shutter speeds should never be less than 1/60 of a second, as this would require significantly slower capture motion and could introduce blur.
    • Aperture: Choose an aperture that balances depth of field with exposure.
    • ISO: Set a low ISO to reduce graininess, which can complicate the 3D reconstruction process. Adjust ISO in conjunction with shutter speed and aperture to achieve proper exposure.
  3. Focus Considerations
    The cameras automatically adjust focus for each exposure, focusing on the center of the image. While this may occasionally delay the shutter trigger and cause images to photograph slightly out-of-sync, this is not an issue. The high density of photographs captured allows for extra parallax, which can enhance the 3D reconstruction process. Multiple exposures also reduce the impact of motion blur, increasing the likelihood that some images will be in sharp focus.
  4. Data Management
    Given that thousands of reference photos may be taken during a session, it’s important to plan intervals to download the data from the cameras to another storage device. This will prevent the cameras from becoming overloaded and ensure that all images are properly saved.
  5. Capture
    Use the remote trigger to start the capture process. The system will simultaneously trigger all cameras to capture images. Ensure the subject remains still during the capture for the best results.

Data Transfer

After capturing, connect the cameras to your computer to transfer the images. Use photogrammetry software to process and reconstruct the 3D model.

Maintenance

Regularly clean the lenses, check battery levels, and inspect all connections and mounts for wear and tear. Store the system in a cool, dry place when not in use.

For detailed troubleshooting and advanced settings, refer to the full user manual.