Charles C Welch

US Patent:

7092106, Aug 15, 2006

Filed:

Nov 17, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/713793

Inventors:

Cary B. Cox - Clinton MS, US
James A. Evans - Tallulah LA, US
Charles R. Welch - Vicksburg MS, US
Barry W. McCleave - Vicksburg MS, US
Lewis B. Smithhart - Utica MS, US

Assignee:

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army - Washington DC

International Classification:

G01B 11/24

US Classification:

356602, 356601

Abstract:

An application of phase profilometry to determine the 3-D configuration of normally obscured structure. In one application, the undercarriage of a vehicle is captured in a 3-D profile while the vehicle is operating normally. The system may use a digital camera; a computer for control, communications, processing, comparing configurations and database storage; a broadband light source; and a device positioned between the light and structure that enables an alternating strip or strips of light and shadows to impinge the obscured surface. A preferred embodiment uses a single straight edge as the device. In addition to profiling the undercarriage of a vehicle and comparing it to an expected configuration of a like vehicle, the system may be used for such diverse applications as determination of correct toll at toll booths, quality inspection in an assembly line, safety and security inspections, and access control.

US Patent:

20030137673, Jul 24, 2003

Filed:

Dec 13, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/318214

Inventors:

Cary Cox - Hinds MS, US
Lewis Smithhart - Utica MS, US
Barry McCleave - Vicksburg MS, US
Charles Welch - Vicksburg MS, US

International Classification:

G01B011/24

US Classification:

356/601000, 356/604000

Abstract:

Provided in a preferred embodiment is an application of phase or “shadow” profilometry to determine a 3-D profile of structure instantaneously. In one application, a vehicle-mounted system captures a 3-D profile while operating normally. The system may use a digital camera, a computer for processing and storage, a broadband light source, and a device positioned between the light and structure that enables strips of light to impinge on the structure. A preferred embodiment uses a single straight edge as the device, casting a straight line shadow. In addition to profiling road surfaces, the bottom of hydraulic models have been profiled even while being disturbed with a wave generator. It may be integrated with other devices such as a pro-active suspension system for civilian, military, and construction vehicles. Further, use with tiltmeters and GPS receivers provides data useful for engineering or construction management.