Background
In the context technological development work at the Canadian Space Agency in Saint-Hubert, Quebec, we had to conduct a feasibility study regarding the development of a compact and portable 3D camera for use onboard the international space station.
Solution
The 3D scanner was designed during the course of this study to serve as a flexible data acquisition tool for astronauts working in space. The camera is used in operations such as planning extravehicular activities and quickly inspecting parts and also serves as a position tracking device for assembly work. In space robotics, artificial vision systems installed on a robotic arm will be used to conduct 3D inspections of space station components.