<title>Miniaturized 3D mapping system using fiber optics and a Young's double pinhole interferometer</title>

Abstract

3D mapping has many applications including robot navigation, medical diagnosis and industrial inspection. However, many applications remain unfilled due to the large size and complex nature of typical 3D mapping systems. This paper describes a 3D mapping system being developed by the Photonics Laboratory at Virginia Polytechnic Institute which uses a fiber optic coupler as a fringe generator or grid projector. Several benefits are derived from this arrangement including small size, low cost, remote operation and survivability inside harsh environments. The system design and mathematical model are presented along with an estimation of the system depth resolution.