Easy 3D Point Digitalization
The Digitization Process
CeMarkers operates based on the principle of photogrammetry, a technique employed in high-precision industrial metrology. This method is distinguished by its high flexibility and accuracy. It can be applied to any solid object, regardless of material properties, and is effective even with very large dimensions.
The process can be described as follows:
1. Applying the Markers and Scale Bars: Self-adhesive uncoded markers are placed on the relevant object points. Calibrated scale bars are also positioned to facilitate the conversion of pixel values to metric coordinates.
2. Capturing Images: The markers and scale bars are photographed using a camera. Magnetic encoded markers are distributed around the object to assist in linking the images together accurately.
3. Importing and Processing Images: The captured images are imported into the CeStudio software, which calculates the 3D coordinates based on the images.
4. Exporting Data: The resulting 3D coordinates are then exported as a CAD file for further use.
This digitization process, leveraging photogrammetry, provides high flexibility and accuracy, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in industrial metrology. The software uses color-coded markers, similar to a traffic light system, to indicate where additional images are needed. Once all the markers turn green, the digitization is complete. It’s that simple!
3D and 2D Data Export
The marker positions are captured as 3D points, which can be exported in CAD formats such as DXF and imported into any standard CAD program.
For projects requiring 2D sketches, specialized sketch markers are laid out to define planes in the 3D space. Three such markers create a plane, and any nearby markers are projected onto these planes, facilitating the quick capture of 2D sketches of surfaces and backgrounds. With 15 markers, up to five sketch planes can be created within a project, identified by the labels [AAA], [BBB], [CCC], [DDD], [EEE], with the ‘A’ markers defining the ‘A’ plane. The resulting data can be seamlessly integrated into most CAD programs through common formats like DXF.
Scope of Delivery
CeStudio Software Licence
Our CeStudio software converts camera images into 3D points. The product includes a license for our CeStudio software, which unlocks the CeMarkers module. Software updates for this module are included for free. Each user will receive a unique username and password. An internet connection is required at start for license verification. Only one device can be logged in at a time. The software is available for Windows OS. While the software also supports lower-end computers, this may result in longer processing times.
Hardware Components:
- Transport Case
CeMarkers is designed for ease of transport and flexibility in deployment, packaged in a compact case containing all necessary hardware components.
- Uncoded Markers
3mm (750 pieces) and 8mm (400 pieces) from messpunkte.de. These self-adhesive markers are placed at the locations where the 3D points will be captured. They can be removed without leaving any residue. Additional marker diameters can be configured as needed.
- Coded Markers
The 150 coded markers feature a unique pattern. They enable quick alignment and orientation of camera images. These markers can be attached to the object magnetically or with adhesive pads (not included).
- Sketch Plane Markers
These 5 sets of 3 coded markers, labeled with letters, allow for the definition of sketch planes within the project. The midpoints of the grouped markers define a plane onto which nearby uncoded markers are projected. This enables quick and easy capturing of profiles of the object’s surface.
- Scale Bars
These are distributed magnetically throughout the project area, similar to the coded markers. Scale bars enable the system to convert the camera’s pixel values into metric units. Each scale bar is individually calibrated by us to ensure maximum accuracy. You will receive a certificate with the calibration parameters, which can then be entered into CeStudio.
- Hand Strap
The red claw made from paracord by C-Rope offers maximum security in any situation. It can be mounted in seconds, thanks to the quick-release mechanism, and has a load capacity of up to 20 kg.
- Handbook
The comprehensive handbook provides clear instructions and guidelines for using CeMarkers effectively. It is designed to be easy to follow, ensuring that you can quickly get started with the digitization process. - Invoice
Backers will receive a detailed invoice for their pledge, ensuring transparency and proper documentation for their contribution. - (Note: Camera not included!)
Professional Edition vs. Entry Edition
CeMarkers is designed for high-performance applications requiring precise optical digitization.
The Professional Edition is tailored for industrial processes such as quality inspection that require a certified system. It will be certified as a complete system and is expected to be released in the coming years.
The Entry Edition will not have certification, as it allows users to utilize their own camera hardware. This provides a significantly more cost-effective entry into precise optical digitization for users who have access to a camera and do not require certification.
Is My Camera Suitable?
Do you own a DSLR or DSLM? Then you have a very good chance that your camera can become a digitization tool. For optimal results, the following conditions should be met:
Minimum Sensor Size:
- Medium format
- Full frame
- APS-C sensors
- (No small sensors or smartphone cameras!)
Essential Features:
- Ability to deactivate autofocus
- Ability to deactivate mechanical image stabilization
- Ability to deactivate automatic image orientation
Generally, most common camera models are suitable for use. In general, the larger the sensor, the more accurate the result. As long as large areas of the object can be captured at once, any lens can be used. Because the optical markers are very well recognized from the images, even older and budget-friendly camera models can achieve highly accurate results.
For more details or if you are unsure whether your camera fits the requirements, feel free to contact us at contact[at]cepha-systems.de.
Once you have deactivated the above functions, met the conditions, and attached the hand strap, your camera is ready to become your new digitization tool!
Accuracy Specifications
Please note that the system has not been independently verified. Our specifications are based on practical tests, where we compared the system with certified high-end industrial methods.
The final accuracy depends on several factors, including the size of the object, the camera size, the distribution of markers, and the distribution of images. Therefore, an accuracy in the range of 0.1-0.4 mm per meter (up to a maximum object size of 10 meters) can be expected.
For example, when these conditions are well met, we achieved an accuracy of even under 0.1 mm per meter using a 10-year-old Nikon D750 full-frame camera.