Filtering Algorithms for 3D Range Image Analysis

This article is devoted to the methods of image analysis used in three-dimensional vision systems. Based on a sample set of 3D images, their defects resulting from the adopted three-dimensional image construction technique are discussed. Those defects are discussed in relation to the following parameters: speed of the vision system, power of the laser, laser mode, laser arrangement relative to the vision system sensor and relative to the tested surface. To illustrate the cases discussed, images showing the effects of selected parameters on the quality of mapping of the tested object onto a three-dimensional image were presented. The next part of the article discusses methods of range image filtering that removes or reduces the importance of defects of the adopted method in any control and measuring tasks. Particular attention is given to methods of removing data described as missing data.