A 3D scanner based on virtual instrumentation implemented by a 1D laser triangulation method

Abstract

This paper deals with the design and implementation of a 3D scanner based on 1D laser triangulation method. Virtual instrumentation principles and tools were used in the design. NI myRIO embedded device was utilized to control the scanner hardware and graphical development environment LabVIEW was used to develop a control application for the scanner and to develop GUI for a PC platform. Purpose of implemented scanner is to demonstrate the principle of 3D scanners and 1D laser triangulation method to students of virtual instrumentation class. First part of this paper provides concise theoretical information about 3D scanners, 1D laser triangulation method and virtual instrumentation principles. Second part focuses on mechanical, hardware and software design and implementation of realized scanner.