Smart cameras tackle 3D industrial inspection

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the technology and applications of 3D visual measurement systems.Design/methodology/approach – A particular line profile sensor is used to explain the principle of laser triangulation, and further profilers are described. A grid projection technique is presented. Finally, a series of industrial 3D vision devices from SICK are described.Findings – 3D vision is becoming as convenient as 2D as a factory integration tool. Very high‐speed laser‐scan systems are now available, making up to 35,000 profiles per second. Grid projection systems can measure to 10 μm resolution.Originality/value – The value of this paper is to make scientists and engineers aware of advances in the practicality of 3D vision systems.