Knowledge Base

Problem

The CatWalk camera appears tilted or the captured image shows unexpected angular distortion, affecting run quality and footprint detection.

Details

This issue can arise after hardware changes such as installation of a new camera bracket or camera model with different mounting hole positions. It may also be partly attributable to inherent optical lens distortion rather than a true physical tilt. Affected users may notice that the walkway image does not appear level in the software.

Solution

1. Physically inspect the camera mount: confirm the camera is firmly and securely fastened to the mounting pole with all screws tightened — a loose camera will introduce genuine tilt.
2. If the camera feels secure but the image still appears angled, check whether the issue is consistent across the full width of the image (true tilt) or is more pronounced at the edges (lens distortion).
3. Note that all camera lenses introduce some degree of barrel or edge distortion, which is normal and does not affect CatWalk XT's paw detection algorithms.
4. If a new camera bracket has been installed, verify that the mounting holes used are the correct ones specified for your camera model in the hardware installation guide.
5. If genuine tilt persists after all mechanical checks, contact Noldus support with photos of the bracket assembly and a screenshot of the live camera image for further assessment.