Digitizer using plural capture methods to image features of 3-d objects

Abstract

A method and apparatus to digitize three-dimensional objects. A projection assembly is retained in fixed relation to an imaging assembly. The projection assembly projects a fixed gradient light pattern into a focal zone of the imaging assembly. The imaging assembly integrates the illumination over time such that the fixed gradient reveals the features of the three dimensional object.

1 . An apparatus comprising:
 a digitizer capable of using any of at least two capture methods to capture a three-dimensional digital representation of at least a portion of an object.   
   
   
       2 . The apparatus of  claim 1  further comprising:
 a processor to automatically combine elements from three-dimensional digital representations captured with at least two captured methods to improve quality.   
   
   
       3 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein at least a first capture method uses active ranging and at least a second capture method uses passive imaging. 
   
   
       4 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the digitizer is capable of performing at least two capture methods using a same image sensing array (ISA). 
   
   
       5 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein one of the capture methods is stereoscopy.