Shape detection of small specular surface using color stripe lighting

A method to detect the shape of specular surfaces is required to inspect precise metal parts or solder joints visually. A method to detect the 3D shape of specular surfaces is introduced. The system uses color stripe lighting. Reflected colors from specular surfaces are determined to detect normal directions of the surface. From the normal directions of the surface the height changes are calculated, and from the height changes the 3D shape.<<ETX>>