A cone array calibration-based line laser triangulation method for freeform surface measurement independent of motion device precision

In the field of freeform surface measurement, line laser triangulation is a widely used technique for acquiring high-precision depth information in a single scan. Nevertheless, the measurement performance is considerably limited by the strict constraints of the scanning path during the entire measurement process. This paper presents a novel line laser triangulation measurement approach based on a cone array calibration target. By utilizing this target, the position of the line laser camera can be calibrated in real-time, enabling surface measurements with a single camera. Importantly, the measurement accuracy is independent of the motion precision and installation accuracy of the line laser camera. The paper provides a rigorous mathematical proof of the method’s feasibility and outlines a comprehensive measurement procedure. To validate the proposed approach, a full measurement platform was developed using computer-aided technology, and extensive experimental tests were conducted. The results demonstrate that the cone array calibration method can effectively and accurately perform surface measurements, providing a high-precision solution for challenging measurement scenarios in spatially constrained or easily interfered environments.