Algorithm for Real-Time Parallax Correction

The Seeker is developing a multi-spectral visual system; however, fusing the inputs of offset optical sources results in parallax - a perceived change in the position of an object due to the offset positions of the optical sensors. This Challenge seeks a system and/or algorithm that provides near real-time parallax correction for multiple, offset optical sources. 

This is a Reduction-to-Practice Challenge in two phases that requires a written proposal and algorithm (Phase I) and experimental proof (Phase II).

Parallax is the visual displacement of objects when viewed from a different location. An easy example is to view your outstretched thumb with your left eye only and look at an object in the background. When you switch views to your right eye, your thumb and the object move in relation to each other. Objects closer to your eye move more than objects further away. The movement depends on the distance from the viewer which is why parallax is used to measure the distance of objects in space.

Right Eye View

Left Eye View

Figure 1 - Example of parallax. Note objects have not moved, just the position of the viewer.

In old style cameras, the viewfinder was offset vertically from the camera lens. If you did not compensate for it, you ended up with pictures of people with the tops of their heads cut off due to parallax error. 

The objective of this Challenge is to demonstrate a system that corrects for the parallax effect in near-real time with a minimum of added optical latency. That is, given the output of a sensor (e.g. camera) at position A, predict what the same sensor at position B would see, given the relative positions of A and B to each other. 

The Challenge will take place in two Phases: 

Phase I - will be a theoretical written phase which will require an algorithm and explanation along with any backup data. Those awarded in Phase I will be invited to Phase II. 

Phase II will be an on-site field test for the algorithms and systems from Phase I. Solvers will be responsible for attending the site test. 

The total potential award pool is $50,000.

Phase I Awards - $3000 for each submission invited to compete in Phase II (max = 5)

Phase II Awards – (Awarded if requirements are met)

                                    $20,000          1^st

                                    $10,000          2^nd

                                     $ 5,000          3^rd

The awards are contingent upon theoretical evaluation and experimental validation of the submitted solutions by the Seeker and their judges. The Seeker’s decisions will be final. 

To receive an award, the Solvers will NOT have to transfer to the Seeker their exclusive Intellectual Property (IP) rights to the solution. The Solvers will provide a perpetual, non-exclusive government use license (see Challenge Specific Agreement for details). Solvers will be allowed and encouraged to commercialize their work. Continuation of collaboration with the Seeker (although not guaranteed) is possible at the conclusion of the Challenge. 

Submissions to this Challenge must be received by 11:59 PM (US Eastern Time) on February 29, 2016.  Late submissions will not be considered. 

About the Seeker:  

U.S. Special Operations Command’s (USSOCOM) mission to provide trained, equipped, ready, and regionally aligned special operations forces (SOF) in support of Geographic Combatant Commanders, and through unified action, to conduct sustained special operations to eliminate threats to U.S. interests and protect the American people. 

The SOF Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Center (SOF AT&L) within USSOCOM is purpose-organized to deliver capability to SOF users expeditiously; exploit proven techniques and methods; keep Warfighters involved throughout the process, and to recognize and manage the associated technology development and resource investment risks.  The Center oversees a portfolio of about 500 acquisition programs and development projects, and awarded $3 billion dollars in contracts in 2014.