3D Flatbed Scanner
1. Summary
- CSIRO Mathematics, Informatics and Statistics (CMIS) has developed an innovative flatbed scanning and imaging
system based on a method of scanning the visible surfaces of small 3D
objects, for enabling 3D viewing applications and surface measurements.
- CSIRO's software can be used to automatically reconstruct 3D object
surfaces for measurement and 3D image display in personal and business
applications.
- CSIRO is interested in having discussions with manufacturers to explore
the options for sale or licensing of this imaging system for use in
scanners, faxes, photocopiers and industrial product quality control
applications.
2. Scanners
Representing the third largest segment of the PC peripherals market,
scanners transform hard-copy pictures or text into digital data for use in a
wide range of applications.
CSIRO's proprietary imaging technology may be applied, to extend the
scanning capabilities, of scanner, photocopier and fax machines, to include
3D images of the visible surfaces of small and low depth of field objects
capable of being placed on a scanner. Users will then be able to choose to
alternate scanners between 3D and normal modes of operation.
3. Applications
The range of potential business and consumer application areas for 3D
scanning applications will be limited only by the imagination. Examples
include 3D object presentation for:
- E-commerce
- Mobile commerce
- Product catalogues
- Cataloguing and display of private or personal collections including
numismatics and botanical specimens
- Displaying museum and archaeological pieces
Or if you have an idea for different applications, please let us know.
4. Intended Market Positioning
The goal is to make our 3D scanner the first low cost 3D scanner,
positioned to exploit the consumer mass market for conventional flatbed
scanners.
Our product will create a new industry segment for low cost 3D scanners
of small objects.
5. Value Proposition
3D flatbed scanner technology could bestow a company with a competitive
advantage making it possible to engage in the release of innovative new
flatbed scanners and photocopiers commanding a price premium over both brand
and low cost competitors, whilst generating renewed demand for flatbed
scanners.
In addition the technology would provide an imaging company with a low
cost entry strategy in to the 3D imaging market, as well as the means for
growing this market through the creation of the first mass market segment
for 3D imaging products, whilst leveraging established demand for
conventional flatbed scanners.
Managing museum collections could be enhanced by CSIRO's
3D scanning technology. For example, the technology shows this shell as
dome-shaped, not flat.
6. Viewing and Representation
Pointing to obvious product bundling options, 3D images may be viewed or
represented using:
- Software for creating vivid onscreen 3D images or mini-movies
- Object measurements which can be obtained automatically using CSIRO's
software
7. Manufacturing Requirements
Manufacturing requirements for incorporating the imaging system into
conventional flatbed scanners are low, meaning that 3D scanners will have
low incremental manufacturing costs over conventional flatbed scanners and
be easy to produce.
8. Patent Protection
CSIRO's 3D imaging system is protected by an Australian provisional
patent. CSIRO also intends to file an International Patent Cooperation Treaty
application.
9. Commercialisation
CSIRO is interested in having discussions with manufacturers to discuss
the options for the exclusive or non exclusive license or sale of this
technology for use in the following domains
- Flatbed scanners
- Photocopiers
- Facsimile machines
- Inspection and quality control for industrial conveyor belt
applications
10. Publication
C. Sun, R. Beare, K. Cheong, B. J. Jung, and M. Kim,
Stereoscopic Flatbed Scanner.
Journal of Electronic Imaging, 18(1):013002, January-March 2009.
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