A Precise, Real-Time 3D Imager

3D imaging is used in applications that require physical measurements, including gesture recognition, obstacle avoidance and 3D recognition and reconstruction of objects. Global sales in the 3D imaging market are expected to grow from $3.01 billion in 2013 to $9.82 billion by 2018, an estimated compound annual growth rate of 26.7%. However, capturing precise 3D information is expensive and slow, while real-time systems lack accuracy. This project will assess the feasibility of a low-cost, precise, real-time 3D imager that uses a novel multi-illuminator structured-light system with image processing to extract 3D information from laterally-shifted, divergent waveforms. The technology is disruptive and will lead to a new family of 3D imaging systems that can be configured to optimise precision, speed and cost. Based on conventional electronics it uses only a camera, LED illumination and a reconfigurable LCD screen. Industries that can benefit include medical sciences, industrial systems, media, entertainment, defence, security, architecture.