Reproducible Optical Tracking Precision: Evaluating a Static, Near-Parallel Support Structure for OptiTrack PrimeX22 Cameras

TL;DR

This paper designs and evaluates a stable, scalable support structure for OptiTrack X22 cameras, demonstrating how camera placement affects measurement accuracy and providing a validated, reproducible system for high-precision tracking applications.

Contribution

It introduces a low-expansion CFRP and Invar support system and analyzes camera placement effects, improving measurement accuracy and reproducibility in optical tracking.

Findings

Closer camera placement increases measurement precision.

Achieved accuracy of +/-0.74 mm along line of sight.

Measurement noise varies across the measurement plane.

Abstract

This paper presents the design and evaluation of a physical support structure for the OptiTrack X22 tracking systems, constructed from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and Invar steel. These materials were chosen for their low thermal expansion, ensuring geometric stability and rigidity necessary for accurate spatial measurements. The support system is scalable and adaptable for various applications and setups. The study further investigates the effects of camera placement and separation in near-parallel configurations on measurement accuracy and precision. Experimental results show a significant correlation between camera distance and measurement precision - closer camera setups yield higher precision. The optimized camera arrangement allowed the prototype to achieve accuracies of +/-0.74 mm along the camera's line of sight and +/-0.12 mm in orthogonal directions. The experiments show that the standard deviation of the noise on a single measurement plane orthogonal to the camera's line of sight vary between 0.02 and 0.07, indicating that the measurement noise is not constant for every point on that specific plane in the meanurement space. Details of the system's design and validation are provided to enhance reproducibility and encourage further development in areas like industrial automation and medical device tracking. By delivering a modular solution with validated accuracy, this work aims to promote innovation and practical application in precision tracking technology, facilitating broader adoption and iterative improvements. This approach enhances the accessibility and versatility of high-precision tracking technology, supporting future progress in the field.