Grant: Idea to Innovation

Three-dimensional (3-D) scanners or range sensors are commonly used to measure the surface shape of objects. They are typically capable of rapidly acquiring dense surface coordinate data without contacting the object surface. Applications include 3-D model archiving, reverse engineering, volume measurement, object shape comparison and inspection. Conventional scanners use mechanical devices such as arms or gantries to position the sensor head while scanning an object. However, positioning devices may be impossible to use where there is lack of space or a suitable supporting surface, such as for interior surfaces, confined spaces, complex shapes and immovable objects.This project aims to refine and test a new proprietary hand-held 3-D scanner that will enable measurement of surfaces without having to place markers on the object surface and without having to use secondary tracking systems to track the movement of the scanning sensor head. This will be an improvement over existing devices which have these limitations, and will allow fully non-contacting measurement of a surface with a more free motion of the scanning head, and better access to surfaces with difficult accessibility. Specific applications include measurement of surfaces that cannot be touched such as delicate or fragile surfaces (archaeological sites and artefacts), non-firm surfaces (animal, human, plant), hazardous materials, surfaces in forensic applications, as well as those in poorly accessible disaster sites.