A range scanner with a virtual laser

摘要

A scanner is developed that can capture range and color data from four sides of an object and combine the data into a model of the object. The scanner has four synchronous heads that scan an object from four sides in a coordinate system that is attached to the object. Data produced by the four heads automatically come together without the need for image registration. The uniqueness of the scanner is in its use of an imaginary (virtual) laser rather than a real one for scanning. Use of a virtual laser makes it possible to scan an object with detailed color and under bright lighting. Characteristics of the scanner are investigated and example images produced by the scanner are given.