DLP-based structured light 3D imaging technologies and applications

Abstract

In this paper, we provide a thorough overview of recent advances in 3D surface imaging technologies. We focus particularly on non-contact 3D surface measurement techniques based on structured illumination. The high-speed and high-resolution pattern projection capability offered by the digital light processing (DLP) technology, together with the recent advances in imaging sensor technologies, may enable new generation systems for 3D surface measurement applications that provide much better functionality and performance than existing ones, in terms of speed, accuracy, resolution, size, cost, and ease of use. Performance indexes of 3D imaging systems in general are discussed and various 3D surface imaging schemes are categorized, illustrated, and compared. Calibration techniques are also discussed since they play critical roles in achieving the required precision. Benefits and challenges of using DLP technology in 3D imaging applications are discussed. Numerous applications of 3D technologies are discussed with several examples.