Three-dimensional vision technology offers real-time inspection capability

• Published in: Sensor review Vol. 17; no. 4; pp. 299 - 303
• Main Authors: Wolfson, Wendy, Gordon, Steven J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford MCB UP Ltd 1997; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Accuracy; Algorithms; Automation; Gallium arsenide; Inspections; Lasers; Light; Manufacturers; Manufacturing; Moire interferometry; Personal computers; Process controls; Real time; Registration; Sensors; Studies; Vision systems; Measurement; Inspection; Technology; Vision
• ISSN: 0260-2288; 1758-6828
• DOI: 10.1108/02602289710185117

Describes a three-dimensional machine vision technology for inspecting and measuring on-line production. States that the 4DI three-dimensional imager, a new machine vision technology developed by Intelligent Automation Systems, combines speed and accuracy to perform 100 per cent on-line inspection and measurement of volumes and surfaces in real-time. Until recently, neither conventional measurement techniques such as co-ordinate measurement machines nor non-contact optical technologies could inspect 100 per cent of production on-line three-dimensionally, being either too slow or too sensitive to ambient light. The 4DI uses structured laser light, multiple cameras and triangulation to capture moving or stationary objects. States this technology allows objects of different sizes, ranging from several feet to fractions of an inch to be imaged. States the system has no moving parts, it is robust in industrial environments.