Abstract: A noncontact object scanning system includes a horizontal table rotatable on a vertical axis, one or more scanners above the table and one or more scanners below the table. The table allows passage of radiant energy therethrough due to its transparency or construction as a nonreflective grid. A controller automatically steps the scanners through a scanning sequence, each scan associated with a segment of the object's exterior surface. Surface segments scanned from above the table and from below the table combine to provide a comprehensive scan of the entire exterior surface. Adjacent surface segments overlap one another to provide redundant data used to overcome shadowing effects from the grid and to accurately align and merge the segments into a three dimensional representation of the complete exterior shape of the object. The scanners can incorporate color responsive light detectors whereby the three dimensional representation portrays color and shape.

Abstract: A laser alignment system includes a probe head assembly mounted for linear articulation in mutually perpendicular X, Y and Z axes, with respect to a reference plane. In a four axis version of the system, a laser probe is further mounted for rotation about a V axis relate to the reference plane. Adjustment means are provided to ensure that a laser beam emitted by the probe is perpendicular to the V axis and intersects the V axis. In a five axis version of the system, the laser probe is further rotatable about a W axis perpendicular to the reference plane. This version further incorporates a means to translate the laser beam so that the beam, when perpendicular to the reference plane, coincides with the W axis.