We propose a model of depth camera based on a four-lens device. This device is used for validating alternate approaches for calibrating multi-view cameras and also for computing disparity or depth images. Calibration method arises from previous works, where principles of variable homography were extended for 3-D measurement. In this paper, calibration is performed between two contiguous views obtained on the same image sensor. This approach leads to propose a new approach for simplifying calibration, by using the properties of the variable homography. The second part of this paper addresses new principles for obtaining disparity images without any matching. A fast algorithm using a contour propagation algorithm is proposed without requiring structured or random pattern projection. These principles are proposed in a framework of quality control by vision, for inspection in natural illumination. By preserving scene photometry, some other standard controls, as for example calipers, shape recognition, or barcode reading, can be done conjointly with 3-D measurements. Approaches presented in this paper are evaluated. Firstly, we show that rapid calibration is relevant for devices mounted with multi lenses. Secondly, synthetic and real experimentations validate our method for computing depth images.