Measuring 3D profile and position of a moving object in large measurement range by using tracking fringe pattern

The profile and position of a moving object have been measured by using a tracking fringe pattern. The 3D profile of the object is determined from the distorted fringes, and the absolute coordinate is determined from the angle of the reference-tracking fringes. This method enables us to track a moving object, and measure it with high resolution in a large measurement range. Moreover, the tracking feedback signal is obtained from the image taken by CCD camera, ensuring the system with good sensitivity, reliability and compact. We have successfully used the method to track a swimming fish and measure the position and body deformation of it. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.