Triangulation Scanner Blue-Light Projector Large-Area Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld scanners face challenges in obtaining accurate 3D representations over large areas due to limited feature registration, particularly on objects with few features, and are not effectively usable with portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs).
Innovation Solution
A scanner system comprising an enclosure with a projector emitting light at 450 nm, a camera receiving reflections, additional light sources emitting different wavelengths, and paired cameras acquiring images of markers to determine 3D coordinates in a local frame of reference, enabling improved registration and accuracy over large regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a handheld scanner is used for 3D scanning, then portability and ease of operation are improved, but measurement precision and feature registration accuracy deteriorate over large areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces markers as intermediary objects that are placed on the surface being scanned. These markers serve as reliable registration features that the scanner can detect and use to accurately register and stitch together multiple scans over large areas, solving the feature registration problem without compromising portability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter space by using multiple wavelengths of light (including blue light at 450 nm) and combines different scanning approaches (structured light and time-of-flight) to improve measurement precision while maintaining the handheld form factor
2Ease of operation
If existing handheld scanners are used, then portability is improved, but compatibility with portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the handheld scanner to be universally compatible with portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines through standardized mounting interfaces and integrated operation modes, allowing the same device to function both as a standalone handheld scanner and as an accessory to AACMM
3Device complexity
If traditional triangulation-based scanners are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision over large areas deteriorates due to limited feature registration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple scanning technologies (structured light projection and time-of-flight measurement) into a single handheld device, combining their complementary strengths to achieve high measurement precision over large areas while maintaining reasonable device complexity through integrated design
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
The solution allows for precise and accurate 3D scanning over large areas by enhancing feature registration and compatibility with AACMMs, addressing the limitations of existing handheld scanners.
Implementation Method 1
a projector coupled to the enclosure and configured to emit a first light having a first wavelength of about 450 nm
Implementation Method 2
a first camera coupled to the enclosure and configured to receive a reflection of the first light off a surface in the environment
Implementation Method 3
at least one light source coupled to the enclosure and configured to emit a second light, the second light having a second wavelength, the second wavelength being different than the first wavelength
Implementation Method 4
a pair of second cameras coupled to the enclosure and having a second filter configured to pass the second light having the second wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
A triangulation scanner having an enclosure, a projector coupled to the enclosure and configured to emit a first light, and three cameras also coupled to the enclosure. The scanner further includes at least one processor to determine the three-dimensional coordinates in a local frame of reference based at least in part on receiving the first light.