Handheld 3D Scanner Using Uncoded Infrared Pattern and Stationary Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scanners face challenges in acquiring three-dimensional coordinate data using uncoded light patterns, especially when moved, as they often require encoded patterns and struggle with scattered light and interference in visible wavelengths.
Innovation Solution
A portable hand-held scanner utilizing a non-co-linear arrangement of two cameras and a projector to determine three-dimensional coordinates using an uncoded infrared light pattern, with a color camera for color information and optional additional projectors for varying point densities and resolutions, and a stationary pattern for registration of scans from different positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an encoded light pattern is used for scanning, then the correspondence of light points can be determined unambiguously, but the pattern production becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the light pattern from visible to infrared range. This allows using a simpler uncoded infrared pattern instead of a complex encoded visible pattern, while still achieving unambiguous correspondence determination through the non-collinear camera arrangement and infrared sensitivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the encoding information from the light pattern itself and replaces it with spatial arrangement information. The uncoded infrared pattern combined with the specific geometric arrangement of cameras and projector provides the necessary correspondence information without requiring complex pattern encoding
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary scanner is used for scanning, then the coordinate system registration is straightforward, but the scanner cannot be moved to scan objects from different positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stationary pattern as an intermediary reference that remains fixed in the environment while the scanner moves. This stationary pattern serves as a common reference frame that enables accurate registration of multiple scans taken from different positions, solving the registration problem associated with mobile scanning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of scanner mobility by allowing the scanner to move in space. The stationary pattern provides a reference framework that maintains measurement precision across multiple positions and orientations, effectively adding spatial freedom without sacrificing accuracy
3Illumination intensity
If visible wavelength light is used for scanning, then color information can be captured, but scattered light and interference reduce measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter from visible to infrared range. This eliminates scattered light and interference problems while maintaining sufficient light intensity for scanning. The infrared light penetrates atmospheric conditions better and reduces unwanted reflections and scattering
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from visible light (which carries color information) to infrared light (which does not). This wavelength change eliminates interference from scattered visible light while the system can still capture color information separately using a color camera for additional data
4Area of stationary object
If high-resolution 3D scans are acquired from multiple positions, then complete object coverage is achieved, but data storage and transfer requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scanning task into multiple segments or frames taken from different positions. By using a stationary pattern for registration, each frame can be processed and registered independently, allowing efficient data management and reducing the computational burden of handling large complete datasets
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient acquisition of 3D scans with reduced light loss and interference, allowing for high-speed operation and accurate registration of scans from multiple positions, while minimizing data storage and transfer requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The uncoded pattern is not produced within the visible wavelength range, but within the infrared range (700 nanometers-1 millimeter)
Implementation Method 2
Two (or more) cameras, the relative positions and alignment of which are known or are determined, can record images of the surface with a further, uncoded pattern
Implementation Method 3
scattered light and other interferences can be filtered out in the visible wavelength range
Data Source
AI summary
A device for optically scanning and measuring an environment is provided. The device includes a movable scanner having at least one first projector for producing at least one uncoded first pattern on an object in the environment. The scanner includes at least one camera for recording images of the object provided with the pattern and a controller coupled to the first projector and the camera. The device further includes at least one second projector which projects a stationary uncoded second pattern on the object while the scanner is moved. Wherein the controller has a processor configured to determine a set of three-dimensional coordinates of points on a surface of the object from a set of images acquired by the camera based at least in part on the first pattern. The controller is further configured to register the set of images relative based in part on the stationary second pattern.