Patent ID: 6633416
Filing Date: 2003-10-14
Classification: G01B,G05B,G06F

Abstract:
A computer scanning device for scanning three-dimensional objects, comprising:a frame having an axis and a wall with an array of axial pinholes; a pin slidably mounted in each of the pinholes in the wall of the frame to form an array of pins extending from the wall, the array of pins being adapted to form a three-dimensional impression of an object when the object is embedded in the array of pins; a detection device mounted to the frame and having a sensor plate opposite the wall of the frame, wherein the detection device and the wall of the frame are movable relative to each other; an array of sensors mounted to the sensor plate of the detection device, each of the sensors corresponding to and aligning with one of the pins for detecting axial displacement thereof, and the array of sensors having an engaged position wherein at least some of the sensors physically contact associated ones of the pins and a disengaged position wherein the sensors are axially spaced apart from and free of contact with the pins; and a computer interface interconnected with the array of sensors and adapted to be interconnected with a computer, such that the three-dimensional impression of the object maybe represented within the computer in response to axial displacement of at least some of the pins.