After futzing around with a cheap pico projector, a webcam and a little bit of software, [Jas Strong] built herself a 3d scanner.
In spite of the dozens of Kinect-based scanner projects, we’ve seen structured light 3d scanners before. This method of volumetric scanning projects a series of gradient images onto a subject. A camera captures images of the patterns of light and dark on the model, math happens, and 3d data is spit out of a computer.
[Jas] found a Microvision SHOWWX laser pico projector on Woot. The laser in the projector plays a large part in the quality of his 3d models – without a focus, [Jas] can get very accurate depth information up close. A Logitech webcam modified for a tighter focus handles the video capture responsibilities. The software side of things are a few of these structured light utilities that [Jas] melded into a single Processing sketch.
The results are pretty remarkable for a rig that uses woodworking clamps to hold everything together. [Jas]‘ 3d model of her cat’s house looks very good. She’s got a few bugs to work out in his setup, but [Jas] plans on releasing her work out into the wild very soon. We’ll update this post whenever that happens.
Filed under: digital cameras hacks, video hacks
