Intelligent Laser Scanning of 3D Surfaces Using Optical Camera Data

Abstract

In CAD/CAM, reverse engineering involves obtaining a CAD model from an object that already exists. An exact replica can then be produced, or modifications can be made before manufacture. Single-perspective triangulation sensors provide an inexpensive method for data acquisition. However, such sensors are subject to localised distortions caused by secondary reflections or occlusion of the returning beam, depending on the orientation of the sensor relative to the object. This chapter describes an investigation into integrating optical camera data to improve the scanning process and reduce such effects, and intelligent algorithms, based on image analysis, which identify the problem regions, so that the sensor path and orientation can be planned before the scan, thereby reducing distortions.