Abstract: A system for imaging an area using a plurality of non-contact measurement optical sensors comprises a plurality of substantially identical sensors that detect the presence of a connected network of like sensors, accept the assignment of the role of a managing sensor or a support sensor and individually image a portion of said area. Each sensor may also individually derive image information from its image. The images or image information from each of the plurality of sensors are delivered to the managing sensor which combines them with its own image or image information and that acts as the exclusive client server for delivering the combined image or combined image information to the client.

Abstract: A system for imaging an area using a plurality of non-contact measurement optical sensors comprises a plurality of substantially identical sensors that detect the presence of a connected network of like sensors, accept the assignment of the role of a managing sensor or a support sensor and individually image a portion of said area. Each sensor may also individually derive image information from its image. The images or image information from each of the plurality of sensors are delivered to the managing sensor which combines them with its own image or image information and that acts as the exclusive client server for delivering the combined image or combined image information to the client.

Abstract: Apparatus for optically measuring a remote object comprises at least one source for projecting a plurality of discrete zones of electromagnetic radiation (for example laser spots) along a projection plane. Imaging apparatus images a plurality of reflections from the remote object. By spatially offsetting the imaging apparatus from the projection plane, crosstalk between opposing cameras imaging the same object is more easily avoided. The same effect as spatially offsetting the imager can be achieved by rotating the light source to provide a reflection axis that is not perpendicular to the optical axis.

Abstract: Apparatus for optically measuring a remote object comprises at least one source for projecting a plurality of discrete zones of electromagnetic radiation (for example laser spots) along a projection plane. Imaging apparatus images a plurality of reflections from the remote object. By spatially offsetting the imaging apparatus from the projection plane, easier discrimination and identification of the reflections is made possible.