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Optical Target Projector: Principle of Functioning and Basic Performance Test
Junzhen Meng1, Yabing Xuan1, Guiping Huang1
1College of Surveying and Geo-Informatics, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou 450000, China.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 14, 2024
Summary
Optical projectors provide precise photogrammetry targets for industrial applications, even in harsh conditions. Their projection points offer reliable measurement repeatability and surface precision, comparable to traditional targets.
Area of Science:
- Metrology
- Optical Engineering
- Industrial Photogrammetry
Background:
- Harsh industrial environments (high temperature, contamination, toxicity) necessitate advanced metrology solutions.
- Optical projectors offer a novel approach to photogrammetric target identification.
- Traditional photogrammetry targets face limitations in demanding industrial settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the principles, optical characteristics, and advantages of optical projectors in industrial photogrammetry.
- To establish performance test methods for optical projectors as photogrammetric targets.
- To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of using optical projector points in industrial measurements.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of optical projector principles and optical characteristics.
- Conducting basic property tests (brightness, roundness).
- Developing and implementing performance tests including coincidence accuracy, measurement repeatability, surface precision, and laser tracker comparison.
Main Results:
- Coordinate measurement repeatability of 0.010 mm and surface measurement precision of 0.007 mm achieved with optical projector targets.
- Performance comparable to retro-reflective targets, demonstrating high reliability.
- Measurement accuracy is influenced by object color, particularly for black surfaces.
Conclusions:
- Optical projector points are a viable and reliable alternative to traditional targets for industrial photogrammetry.
- The technology is applicable in challenging environments where conventional methods falter.
- Further research should consider object surface properties for optimal application.

