3D laser projection, scanning and object tracking

摘要

Techniques are disclosed for tracking the position of moving parts and assemblies using 3D laser projection, and projecting templates and other information onto the parts and assemblies based on position. The projected template may then be used, for example, to assist in fabrication of an assembly by indicating where to put a next component or layer, or to assist in post-fabrication inspection of an assembly by indicating where the various components or layers should have been placed. Reference targets can be used as fiducial points for aligning a laser projector with the work piece in question. When the work piece rotates or is otherwise moved to a next manufacturing or inspection position, the relative position of the laser projector and the work piece is updated by bucking-in to the reference targets. The laser projector can then project patterns or other information onto the work piece at the appropriate locations.

主权项

1. A laser projection system comprising:
a tracking device configured to optically detect positions of a plurality of reference targets affixed to or formed in a component; a laser projector configured to direct a laser light beam toward the component; and a processor operatively coupled to the tracking device and the laser projector, the processor being configured to carry out a process comprising:
determining that the component is stationary with respect to the laser projector based on a lack of change in the detected position of the reference targets during a first interval of time;in response to the determination that the component is stationary:
calculating a transformation for mapping a first coordinate system fixed with respect to the laser projector to a second coordinate system fixed with respect to the component based on the detected position of the reference targets; andcausing the laser projector to direct the laser light beam toward a location on the component based on the transformation;determining that the component is in motion with respect to the laser projector based on a change in the detected position of the reference targets during a second interval of time; andin response to the determination that the component is in motion, causing the laser projector to cease directing the laser light beam toward the component.