Calibration of a three-dimensional reconstruction system using a structured light source

We present a method for calibrating a range finder system composed of a camera and a structured light source. The system is used to reconstruct the three-dimensional (3-D) surface of an object. This is achieved by projecting a pattern, represented by a set of regularly spaced spots, on the surface of the object using the structured light source. An image of the illuminated object is next taken and by analyzing the distortion of the projected pattern, the 3-D surface of the object can be reconstructed. This reconstruction operation can be envisaged only if the system is calibrated. Instead of using a classical calibration method, which is based on the determination of the matrices that characterize the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the system, we propose a fast and easy to set up methodology, consisting of taking a sequence of images of a plane in translation on which a set of regularly spaced spots is projected using the structured light projection system. Next, a relationship between the position of the plane and the coordinates of the spots in the image is established. Using this relationship, we are able to determine the 3-D coordinates of a set of points on the object's surface knowing the 2-D coordinates of the spots in the image of the object taken by the range finder system. Finally, from the 3-D coordinates of the set of points, the 3-D surface of the object is reconstructed. (C) 2002 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.