Scanner system for three-dimensional scanning of moving objects

Abstract

A scanner system includes a ring assembly having a stationary outer ring member and a rotating inner ring member. The rotating inner ring member is configured to rotate relative to the stationary outer ring member. Furthermore, the system includes at least one scanner mounted on the rotating inner ring member, the scanner being either a laser scanner or an image scanner. The scanner system also includes a conveyor member for passing multiple objects through the ring assembly. Thus, the scanner is configured to rotate with the rotating inner ring member and scans the outer surface of the ring assembly as multiple objects pass through it to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of each object.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to Related Applications) This application claims priority based on U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 339,449, filed on June 22, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to scanner systems, and more particularly to scanner systems for performing circular three - dimensional scanning of moving objects.

Background Art

[0003] Modern manufacturing is carried out in highly automated and precise processes. The improvement of the accuracy of modern machines and the fidelity in various three - dimensional (3D) printing techniques promise new performance and quality improvements in all fields of artificial products. While most modern manufacturing processes use perfect 3D models and high - precision machines, the usefulness of these tools depends on the measurement techniques used to measure the actually manufactured parts. Measuring an object provides tolerance, process adjustment, feedback to the design process, and significantly enhances the fidelity of the manufactured parts. Manufactured parts have conventionally been inspected using tools such as hand - held cameras and calipers. More recent technologies include laser line scanners that measure the height of an object as a laser moves along it, and hand - held 3D scanners that generate 3D models by scanning from multiple angles by the operation of a human or machine arm. The 3D scanning of a single object is also performed by placing the object on a platform and automatically rotating either the object or the platform. In some cases, the object is rotated on the platform while the 3D scanner is linearly moved. Therefore, conventional scanning techniques are generally designed to perform two - dimensional scanning or 3D scanning of one stationary / rotating object at a time. Both of these limitations are problems in the mass and inexpensive production of 3D parts.

[0004] Therefore, this specification relates to a scanner system capable of quickly and easily 3D scanning a large number of moving objects (such as objects from a manufacturing line). [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The aspects and advantages of the present invention are shown in part in the following description, are obvious from the description, or can be understood by carrying out the present invention.

[0006] In one embodiment, this specification relates to a scanner system. The scanner system includes a ring assembly having a stationary outer ring member and a rotating inner ring member. The rotating inner ring member is configured to rotate relative to the stationary outer ring member. Furthermore, it includes at least one scanner mounted on the rotating inner ring member, the scanner being either a laser scanner or an image scanner. The scanner system also includes a conveyor member for passing a plurality of moving objects through the ring assembly. Thus, the scanner is configured to rotate with the rotating inner ring member and generates a three-dimensional (3D) model of each moving object by scanning its outer surface as the plurality of moving objects pass through the ring assembly.

[0007] In other embodiments, this specification relates to a scanner system. The scanner system includes a ring assembly having at least one ring member and at least one track attached to the at least one ring member, the track defining an arc-shaped path. Furthermore, the scanner system includes at least one scanner mounted to be movable along the at least one track, the scanner being configured to be a laser scanner or an image scanner. The scanner system also includes a conveyor member for passing a plurality of moving objects through an opening in the ring assembly. Thus, the at least one scanner is configured to move along at least a portion of the arc-shaped path of the track, and generates a three-dimensional (3D) model of each moving object by scanning its outer surface as the plurality of moving objects pass through the opening in the ring assembly.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, this specification relates to a method for scanning a plurality of moving objects via a scanner system. The method includes the step of rotatably mounting at least one scanner in the scanner system to a rotating inner ring member of the scanner system. The rotating inner ring member is configured to rotate relative to a stationary outer ring member of the scanner system, and the scanner is a laser scanner or an image scanner. The method further includes the step of arranging the plurality of moving objects on a conveyor member. The method also includes the step of passing the plurality of moving objects through the conveyor member to the ring assembly of the scanner system. The method further includes the step of rotating the scanner via the rotating inner ring member. While the scanner is rotating, the method includes the step of scanning the outer surface of the plurality of moving objects as they pass through the ring assembly to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of each moving object.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this specification are further supplemented and described by reference to the following description and the appended claims. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitute part thereof, illustrating embodiments of the disclosure and are used together with the description to illustrate the principles of the disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] A complete and implementable disclosure of the present invention intended for those skilled in the art is described in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, as follows:

[0011] [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a scanner system according to this specification. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A is a top view of the scanner system. [Figure 2A] This is a front view of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a 3D scanner according to this specification, specifically showing the 3D scanner positioned in a first location. [Figure 2B] Figure 2A is a front view of the scanner system, specifically showing how the 3D scanner rotates through the ring assembly of the scanner system when the 3D scanner of the scanner system is positioned in a different second position. [Figure 3A] This is a front view of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a plurality of 3D scanners according to this specification, specifically showing the plurality of 3D scanners arranged in a first direction. [Figure 3B] Figure 3A is a front view of the scanner system, specifically showing how multiple 3D scanners rotate through the ring assembly of the scanner system when multiple 3D scanners are arranged in different second directions. [Figure 4]This is a front view of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a plurality of 3D scanners according to this specification, specifically showing the plurality of 3D scanners arranged at uneven distances around the ring assembly of the scanner system. [Figure 5] This is a front view of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a plurality of 3D scanners according to this specification, specifically showing a state in which a first 3D scanner is positioned on the first side of the ring assembly of the scanner system and a second 3D scanner is positioned on the opposing second side of the ring assembly. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a 3D scanner according to this specification, specifically showing a state in which a moving object passes through the ring assembly via a gravity-assisted channel. [Figure 7] This figure shows a block diagram of possible components included in the controller of a scanner system, in accordance with this specification. [Figure 8] This is a front view of another embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a 3D scanner according to this specification, specifically showing the ring assembly having a stationary outer ring member and a ring-shaped track attached to the stationary outer ring member. [Figure 9] This is a partially enlarged view of the interior of an embodiment of a scanner system having a ring assembly and a 3D scanner according to this specification, specifically showing a single ring-shaped track of the ring assembly coupled to a stationary outer ring member of the ring assembly. [Figure 10] This is a partial enlarged view of the interior of another embodiment having a ring assembly and a 3D scanner according to this specification, specifically showing the multiple ring-shaped tracks of the ring assembly attached to the stationary outer ring member. [Figure 11] This figure shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for scanning multiple moving objects via a scanner system according to this specification. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to several examples illustrated in the drawings. Each embodiment is not intended to limit the present invention, but is presented for illustrative purposes. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be combined with other embodiments to lead to yet another embodiment. Accordingly, this disclosure is intended to encompass such modifications and changes that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0013] Modern manufacturing is carried out through highly automated and precise processes. The increased precision of modern machinery and the fidelity of various 3D printing techniques promise new performance and quality improvements in all areas of artificial products. While much of modern manufacturing processes utilize perfect 3D models and high-precision machinery, the usefulness of these tools depends on the measurement techniques used to measure the actual manufactured parts. Measuring objects provides tolerances, process adjustments, and feedback to the design process, significantly increasing the fidelity of manufactured parts. Traditionally, manufactured parts have been inspected using tools such as handheld cameras and calipers. More recent technologies include stationary laser line scanners, which measure the height of an object as it passes in front of a stationary laser, and handheld 3D scanners, which generate 3D models by scanning from multiple angles using human or mechanical arms. 3D scanning of a single object can also be performed by placing the object on a stationary platform and automatically rotating either the object or the platform. In some cases, the 3D scanner may be moved linearly while the object rotates on the platform. However, such processes cannot quickly and easily 3D scan large quantities of moving objects (such as those from a manufacturing line). Rather, conventional scanning techniques are generally designed for two-dimensional scanning or 3D scanning of a single stationary / rotating object at a time. Both of these limitations pose problems in mass-producing 3D parts cheaply.

[0014] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a scanner system comprising a ring assembly having a stationary outer ring member and a rotating inner ring member, and a 3D scanner attached to the rotating inner ring member, which scans and renders a 3D model of an object (e.g., the outer surface of an object) as the object passes through the center of the ring assembly. More specifically, in one embodiment, the ring assembly (and therefore the rotating inner ring member) has a central opening, and the 3D scanner is mounted on the inner diameter of the opening. Thus, the scanner system of the present disclosure is capable of automatically scanning a large number of objects as the object passes through the central opening of the rotating inner ring member. In one embodiment, the scanner system of the present disclosure can scan manufactured parts as they pass through a production line. The generated 3D model can then be automatically compared with the original 3D model for quality control purposes. The scanner system of the present disclosure can be used for mass automated 3D scanning in any application that can benefit from the scanning technology described herein, such as quality control of deliverables, generation of 3D models of humans, tolerance measurement of rocket parts, or any other application.

[0015] Any suitable 3D scanner may be used, including, for example, laser scanners, image scanners, or combinations thereof. Thus, in certain embodiments, the 3D scanner is arranged to face the object while rotating around the central opening of the rotating inner ring member. In some embodiments, the 3D scanner may be attached to a rotating track or, alternatively, the inner diameter of the entire ring assembly (referred to herein as the rotating inner ring member) may be movable relative to the position of the outer ring member (stationary outer ring member). Thus, in certain embodiments, the object passes through the opening of the rotating inner ring member and is 3D scanned from all directions during its passage. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the data collected from the 3D scanner can be converted into a 3D model of the object using reconstruction software. Auxiliary devices such as conveyor members may be removed in a subsequent processing stage. The generated 3D model may then be displayed, compared to a desired 3D model, or compared to each other.

[0016] Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1A - 7 are various views of an embodiment of a scanner system 100 for scanning multiple objects according to the present specification. In particular, FIG. 1A is a simplified side perspective view of an embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification, and FIG. 1B is a top view of the scanner system 100 shown in FIG. 1A. FIGS. 2A and 2B are front views of an embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification. FIGS. 3A and 3B are front views of another embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification. FIG. 4 is a front view of yet another embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification. FIG. 5 is a front view of yet another embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification. FIG. 6 is a schematic view of yet another embodiment of the scanner system 100 according to the present specification. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of possible components included in a controller of the scanner system according to the present specification.

[0017] Thus, as schematically shown in FIGS. 1A - 5, the scanner system 100 includes a ring assembly 102 having a stationary outer ring member 104 and a rotating inner ring member 106. Further, as shown in the figures, the rotating inner ring member 106 is rotatable relative to the stationary outer ring member 104. More specifically, as schematically shown in FIGS. 2A - 5, the stationary outer ring member 104 and the rotating inner ring member 106 are arranged concentrically with each other. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the rotating inner ring member 106 may be rotatable relative to the stationary outer ring member 104 using suitable means such as a plurality of roller elements (e.g., ball bearings), tracks, etc., disposed between the stationary outer ring member 104 and the rotating inner ring member 106.

[0018] Furthermore, as shown in the figures, the scanner system 100 includes at least one scanner 108 attached to the rotating inner ring member 106. Thus, the scanner 108 is configured to rotate about the axis of rotation R at any suitable speed. In certain embodiments, for example, the scanner 108 is configured to rotate at a constant rotational speed in the clockwise direction and / or the counterclockwise direction. In other embodiments, the scanner 108 is configured to rotate at a variable speed in the clockwise direction and / or the counterclockwise direction.

[0019] More specifically, in one embodiment, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the scanner system 100 may include a single scanner 108 mounted on the rotating inner ring member 106. In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 3A to 35, the scanner system 100 may include a plurality of scanners 108 mounted on the rotating inner ring member 106 and arranged circumferentially around it. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the plurality of scanners 108 may be arranged at equal distances from each other in the circumferential direction of the rotating inner ring member 106. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the plurality of scanners may include at least a first scanner 110 and a second scanner 112. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the first scanner 110 and the second scanner 112 are mounted on a first position 114 and a second position 116 of the rotating inner ring member 106, respectively, with the first position 114 and the second position 116 located on opposite sides of the rotating inner ring member 106. In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the multiple scanners 108 may be arranged at uneven distances around the rotating inner ring member 106.

[0020] For example, in one embodiment, scanner 108 may be a laser scanner 118, an image scanner 120, or another suitable 3D scanner. 3D scanning as used here generally refers to the process of analyzing real-world objects and environments to collect three-dimensional data of their shape and, if applicable, their appearance (e.g., color). The collected data may then be used to construct a digital 3D model. For example, in one embodiment, laser scanner 118 may be a triangulation laser scanner, a structured light laser scanner, a pulsed laser scanner (or time-of-flight laser scanner), a modulated light laser scanner, or another suitable laser scanner. A triangulation laser scanner generally refers to an active laser scanner that measures the environment by irradiating an object with laser light and observing the position of the laser point with a camera. A structured light laser scanner generally refers to a laser scanner that projects a pattern of light onto an object and observes the deformation of the pattern on the object with a camera. A pulsed laser scanner generally refers to an active laser scanner that measures an object using laser light and determines the distance to the object's surface by measuring the round-trip time of the light pulses using a laser rangefinder. In this case, a pulsed laser scanner emits light pulses and measures the time it takes for the reflected light to reach the detector. Modulated light laser scanners generally refer to laser scanners that irradiate an object with continuously changing light, causing the light source to change its amplitude in a sinusoidal pattern, and a camera detects the reflected light, measuring the distance the light has propagated to determine the displacement of the pattern.

[0021] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the image scanner 120 may include at least one camera 122 for generating a 3D model. In such an embodiment, the camera 122 may be part of at least one of a multi-photography system, a photogrammetry system, a stereoscopic system, or a silhouette imaging system.

[0022] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the scanner system 100 includes a conveyor member 124 for passing multiple objects 126 through the ring assembly 102. For example, in one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1A-2B, the conveyor member 124 may include a conveyor belt 128. In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 3A-4, the conveyor member 124 may be an overhead conveyor 130. In yet another embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the conveyor member 124 may be a gravity assist channel 132. Thus, in one embodiment, the scanner 108 is configured to rotate with the rotating inner ring member 106 and scan the outer surfaces 134 or shapes of the multiple objects 126 as they pass through the ring assembly 102 to generate a 3D model for each of the multiple objects 126.

[0023] In particular, as shown in Figures 1A and 7, the scanner system 100 may further include a controller 140 for controlling each component of the scanner system 100 and generating a 3D model of each object. Figure 7 is a block diagram of components that may be included in the controller 140 according to this specification. As shown in Figure 7, the controller 140 includes one or more processors 142 and one or more memory devices 144, where the processors 142 and memory devices 144 may be configured to perform methods, procedures, calculations, etc., as described herein and to store the relevant data. Furthermore, the controller 140 may include a communication module 146 for facilitating communication between the controller 140 and the scanner 108.

[0024] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the communication module 146 may include a sensor interface 148 (e.g., one or more analog-to-digital converters) for converting signals transmitted from the scanner 108 into signals that the processor 142 can process. It should be noted that the scanner 108 may be connected to the communication module 146 in a communicative manner by any suitable means. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the scanner 108 may be connected to the sensor interface 148 via a wired connection. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the scanner 108 may be connected to the sensor interface 148 via a wireless connection using any suitable wireless communication protocol known to those skilled in the art. In this way, the processor 142 may be configured to receive one or more signals from the scanner 108.

[0025] As used herein, the term “processor” includes not only integrated circuits intended to be included in a computer by those skilled in the art, but also controllers, microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and other programmable circuits. The processor 142 may also be configured to compute advanced control algorithms to communicate with various Ethernet or serial-based protocols (such as Modbus, OPC, and CAN), and conventional analog or digital signals. Furthermore, the memory device 144 may include, but is not limited to, computer-readable media (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer-readable non-volatile media (e.g., flash memory), floppy disks, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), magneto-optical disks (MOD), digital multipurpose disks (DVDs), and / or other suitable memory elements. Such a memory device 144 may be configured to store suitable computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 142, configure the controller 140 to perform the various functions described herein.

[0026] Figures 8-10 are various diagrams of scanner systems 150 of other embodiments for scanning multiple objects according to this specification. In particular, Figure 8 is a front view of scanner system 150 of another embodiment according to this specification. Figure 9 is a partial internal view of one embodiment of scanner system 150 according to this disclosure. Figure 10 is a partial internal view of another embodiment of scanner system 150 according to this disclosure.

[0027] In particular, as shown in Figure 8, the scanner system 150 includes a ring assembly 152 having a stationary outer ring member 154 and an inner ring member 156, the inner ring member 156 being at least one ring-shaped track 160 attached to the stationary outer ring member 154. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the stationary outer ring member 154 and the ring-shaped track 160 are arranged concentrically. Thus, in one embodiment, as shown in the figure, the ring-shaped track 160 defines an arc-shaped path. In such an embodiment, as shown in the figure, the scanner system 150 includes at least one scanner 158, which is one of the scanners described herein, and the scanner 158 is movably attached to the ring-shaped track 160. Thus, in one embodiment, the scanner 108 may be configured to move along at least a portion of the arc-shaped path and rotate around the ring-shaped track 160.

[0028] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the scanner system 150 may include a single ring-shaped track 160 attached to a stationary outer ring member 154. In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the scanner system 150 may include a plurality of ring-shaped tracks 160 attached to the stationary outer ring member 154. In such an embodiment, as shown, for example in Figure 10, each of the plurality of ring-shaped tracks 160 may be attached to at least one of a plurality of scanners 158. Furthermore, in one embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the plurality of ring-shaped tracks 160 include at least a first ring-shaped track 162 and a second ring-shaped track 164. In such an embodiment, the first ring-shaped track 162 and the second ring-shaped track 164 may be configured to rotate the scanners 108 attached to them in the same direction, in opposite directions, or a combination thereof (for example, if there are two or more tracks, one or more tracks may rotate in the same direction and one or more tracks may rotate in opposite directions).

[0029] Figure 11 is a flow diagram of one embodiment of method 200 for scanning multiple objects through a scanner system according to the present disclosure. Herein, method 200 will be described in general with reference to scanner systems 100 and 150 shown in Figures 1 to 10. However, it should be noted that the disclosed method 200 can also be carried out in any scanner system having other suitable configurations. Furthermore, although Figure 11 shows the steps carried out in a particular order for the purposes of description and discussion, the methods described herein are not limited to any particular order or sequence. Those skilled in the art will understand that by utilizing the description herein, it is possible to omit, rearrange, combine, and / or adapt various steps of the disclosed methods, and this will not deviate from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0030] As indicated by reference numeral (202), Method 200 includes the step of rotatably mounting at least one scanner of the scanner system to a rotating inner ring member of the scanner system. As previously stated, the rotating inner ring member is rotatable relative to a stationary outer ring member of the scanner system, and the scanner includes at least one of a laser scanner or an image scanner. As indicated by reference numeral (204), Method 200 includes the step of placing a plurality of objects on a conveyor member. As indicated by reference numeral (206), Method 200 includes the step of passing the plurality of objects through the conveyor member to the ring assembly. As indicated by reference numeral (208), Method 200 includes the step of rotating the scanner on the rotating inner ring member. While the scanner is rotating, as indicated by reference numeral (210), Method 200 includes the step of scanning the outer surfaces of the plurality of objects to generate a 3D model of each of the plurality of objects as the plurality of objects pass through the ring assembly.

[0031] This specification provides illustrative disclosures, including best embodiments, that enable a person skilled in the art to construct and use any device or system, or to perform methods incorporated herein, so that they may implement the disclosures. The patentable scope of the disclosures is defined by the claims and may include other examples that a person skilled in the art may conceive. Such other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are not different from the language of the claims, or equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the language of the claims.

Claims

1. A scanner system, A ring assembly including a stationary outer ring member and a rotating inner ring member that is rotatable relative to the stationary outer ring member, Attached to the rotating inner ring member, and comprising at least one scanner including at least one of a laser scanner or an image scanner, The ring assembly is equipped with a conveyor member for transporting multiple objects through it, A scanner system comprising at least one scanner that rotates with the rotating inner ring member to scan the outer surfaces of the plurality of objects as they pass through the ring assembly, thereby generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of each of the plurality of objects.

2. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein the laser scanner includes at least one of a triangulation laser scanner, a structured light laser scanner, a pulsed laser scanner, or a modulated light laser scanner.

3. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein the image scanner includes at least one camera for generating a 3D model.

4. The scanner system according to claim 3, wherein the at least one camera is configured to be part of at least one of a multi-photography imaging system, a photogrammetry imaging system, a stereoscopic imaging system, or a silhouette imaging system.

5. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor member includes at least one of a conveyor belt, an overhead conveyor, or a gravity assist channel.

6. The system further comprises a plurality of scanners attached to the rotating inner ring member and arranged circumferentially around it, The scanner system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one scanner is one of the plurality of scanners.

7. The scanner system according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of scanners are arranged at equal distances in the circumferential direction of the rotating inner ring member.

8. The scanner system according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of scanners are arranged at uneven distances around the rotating inner ring member.

9. The plurality of scanners includes at least a first scanner and a second scanner, The first scanner and the second scanner are mounted at the first and second positions of the rotating inner ring member, respectively. The scanner system according to claim 6, wherein the first position and the second position are opposite to each other in the rotating inner ring member.

10. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein at least one scanner rotates at a constant rotational speed in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

11. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein at least one scanner rotates at a variable speed in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

12. The stationary outer ring member and the rotating inner ring member are formed in a concentric shape. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein the rotating inner ring member is rotatable relative to the stationary outer ring member via a plurality of roller elements disposed between the stationary outer ring member and the rotating inner ring member.

13. The rotating inner ring member includes a ring-shaped track attached to the stationary outer ring member. The scanner system according to claim 1, wherein at least one scanner is mounted on the ring-shaped track.

14. The rotating inner ring member includes a plurality of ring-shaped tracks attached to the stationary outer ring member, Each of the plurality of ring-shaped tracks is fitted with at least one of the plurality of scanners, The scanner system according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of ring-shaped tracks include at least a first ring-shaped track and a second ring-shaped track.

15. The scanner system according to claim 14, wherein the first ring-shaped track and the second ring-shaped track are configured to rotate in opposite directions to each other.

16. A ring assembly comprising at least one ring member, and at least one track attached to the at least one ring member and defining an arc-shaped path, Mounted to be movable along at least one track, and comprising at least one scanner including at least one of a laser scanner or an image scanner, The ring assembly comprises a conveyor member for passing multiple objects through the opening of the ring assembly, A scanner system comprising: the at least one scanner moves along at least a portion of the arc-shaped path of the at least one track, and generates a three-dimensional (3D) model of each of the plurality of objects by scanning the outer surface of each of the plurality of objects as each of the plurality of objects passes through the opening of the ring assembly.

17. A method for scanning multiple objects via a scanner system, The steps include: rotatably mounting at least one scanner in the scanner system, which includes at least one of a laser scanner or an image scanner, to a rotating inner ring member that is rotatable relative to a stationary outer ring member of the scanner system; The steps include: placing multiple objects on a conveyor member, The steps include passing the plurality of objects through the conveyor member to the ring assembly of the scanner system, The steps include rotating the at least one scanner via the rotating inner ring member, A method comprising the steps of scanning the outer surfaces of the plurality of objects to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of each of the plurality of objects as the plurality of objects pass through the ring assembly while the rotation of the at least one scanner.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the laser scanner includes at least one of a triangulation laser scanner, a structured light laser scanner, a pulsed laser scanner, or a modulated light laser scanner.

19. The image scanner includes at least one camera for generating the 3D model, The method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the at least one camera is part of at least one of a multi-photography imaging system, a photogrammetry imaging system, a stereoscopic imaging system, or a silhouette imaging system.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the conveyor member includes at least one of a conveyor belt, an overhead conveyor, or a gravity assist channel.

Images