Automated measurement method for 360 degrees profilometry of 3-D diffuse objects

An automated measurement method for 360 degrees surface topography of 3-D diffuse objects is presented. The method is based on the simple principle of triangulation with structured illumination. The geometric specifications of the structured light module used in the system are analyzed on a computer. Using an advantageous data acquisition schedule, high data acquisition rates and measuring accuracy can be achieved. The system comprises a structured lighting projector, a 2-D detector array, and a microcomputer for control and processing. Experimental results for 3-D objects are offered.