Computer-Aided Planning of Laser Scanning of Complex Geometries

A computer-aided planning method for laser scanning based on the CAD model has been developed. It integrates three planning criteria, visibility, accuracy, and efficiency and detects deep concave features that would be more suitable for CMM probing. Clustering, based on the view angle and depth of view, is used to plan an optimal scanner placement and motion path. Simulation studies on complex auto-parts demonstrate the effectiveness of the generated plans. The integration of the scanning plan with CMM controls was also demonstrated. The benefits of the CAD-based automated laser inspection planning have been demonstrated.