A range scanner with a virtual laser

A scanner is developed that can capture range as well as color data from four sides of an object and combine the data into a complete model. In this scanner four synchronous cameras scan an object from four sides in a coordinate system that is attached to the scanner. Data produced by the four cameras, therefore, automatically come together without the need for image registration. The uniqueness of the scanner is in its use of an imaginary (virtual) laser rather than an actual one to scan an object. Use of a virtual laser makes it possible to scan an object with detailed color variations and under regular scene lighting where traditional laser scanners fail. Example images produced by the proposed scanner are presented and discussed. The scanner reconstructs an object in 3-D with 1mm resolution in X, Y, and Z directions.