A Novel Approach To Optical Range Finding

A novel approach to optical range finding is described. This approach enables the distance from a reference plane to an object point to be measured to a high degree of accuracy. Holographic, moire and fringe projection contouring are discussed. It is shown that accurate range measurements can be made by varying the contour depth of such contouring systems. Measurements are made by monitoring the intensity variation produced by varying the contour depth.