Method and apparatus for obtaining coordinates describing three-dimensional objects of complex and unique geometry using a sampling probe
US5359511A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 6, 1993 |
| Grant date | Oct 25, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P90/02
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A data processing system and method obtains a three dimensional representation of an object with complex and unique geometry, using a sampling probe having a tip for tracing the surface of the object. Electrical signals are received which are indicative of the position of the tip of the probe. An origin is determined with reference to the object. A plurality of distances, each distance corresponding to a given direction from the origin, is stored in a device addressable by the given direction to store and to retrieve a corresponding distance. The direction and distance of the probe tip with reference to the origin in response to a received signal. The determined distance is compared to any stored distance corresponding to the determined direction. The determined distance is stored when it is less than any stored distance. The probe tip position may be displayed as a projection on a reference surface which surrounds the origin.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.