Apparatus and Method for Generating Light Patterns for Optically Measuring Three-Dimensional Surfaces

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This invention discloses an apparatus and method for optically measuring three-dimensional surfaces using a distributed array of light sources and lenses. By projecting multiple focused light spots onto a measurement surface, a complex statistical light pattern is generated across the entire surface. A camera or set of cameras then captures these patterns, allowing precise photogrammetric 3D reconstruction, even on surfaces lacking natural texture. The system is modular, scalable, and can quickly switch between different light patterns for fast, accurate surface measurement.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial quality control for precise measurement of complex components
• Automated inspection lines where quick and accurate 3D surface mapping is critical
• 3D surface digitization in reverse engineering or manufacturing
• Dynamic measurement of moving or vibrating objects (such as in assembly monitoring)
• Room-scale 3D scene capture for security, people counting, or tracking in smart environments
• High-speed capture of dynamic surface changes (e.g., material deformation studies)
• Medical applications such as surface scanning for prosthetic fitting or wound analysis

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Higher measurement accuracy due to customizable, high-intensity statistical light patterns
• Reduced measurement and integration times compared to projector or laser-based systems
• Scalable illumination for large measurement fields without loss of intensity
• Minimization of shadowing effects due to spatially distributed light sources and possible use of mirrors
• Fast switching between patterns (using LEDs), suitable for dynamic or multi-step measurement processes
• Capability for full 360° surface reconstruction with multiview camera arrangements, eliminating the need for object rotation
• Lower susceptibility to laser safety/effects issues (as with laser-speckle methods)
• Adaptable to various surface types, including those with little or no inherent texture

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (V) and a method for optically measuring three-dimensional surfaces, comprising at least one camera and a plurality of spatially distributed light projections. Here, each light projection comprises at least one light source (1) for producing light, a lens (2) for focusing the light, wherein a light beam (3) can strike a measurement surface (5) from the light source (1) via the lens (2) in such a way that an individual light spot (4) is imageable on the measurement surface (5). The superposition of all light beams (3') results in a spatial brightness distribution, as a result of which light spots are producible on the entire measurement surface (5), said light spots, together, forming a statistical light pattern (4') which is suitable for photogrammetric measurement of three-dimensional objects.