Curved light surface model for calibration of a structured light 3D modeling system based on striped patterns

Area of Science:

• Optical Metrology
• 3D Surface Measurement
• Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)

Background:

• Traditional structured light 3D surface measurement offers high speed and robustness.
• Large digital light processing (DLP) projectors hinder portability in many applications.
• Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) mirrors offer a compact, low-cost alternative for 3D modeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a calibration method for MEMS mirror-based 3D modeling systems.
• To address challenges of single-direction projection and distortion inherent in MEMS projectors.
• To enhance the accuracy of 3D surface measurements using compact structured light systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a one-axis MEMS mirror as a structured light projector.
• Proposed a 'curved light surface model' to mathematically describe projected stripe distortion.
• Replaced the traditional ideal plane equation with the curved light surface model for calibration.

Main Results:

• The proposed calibration method effectively reduces projection distortion effects.
• Achieved a measurement accuracy of 0.11 mm on a standard dumbbell-shaped object.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of high-accuracy 3D modeling with compact MEMS-based systems.

Conclusions:

• The curved light surface model enables accurate calibration for MEMS-based structured light systems.
• This approach overcomes limitations of traditional methods, enhancing 3D modeling capabilities.
• The developed technique offers a practical solution for portable and precise 3D surface measurement.