Systematic method for evaluating the performance of three-dimensional optical scanners by structured light projection applied to ballistic vests tests

Considering the recent use of three-dimensional digitalization equipment in ballistic vest tests to characterize trauma caused by projectiles, this study carried out a performance analysis of a 3D structured light scanner to measure trauma depths. Artifacts were manufactured and digitized by a 3D scanner and by an articulated arm coordinate measuring machine, which provided the reference values. A process was developed for estimating the depth from the point clouds, one of the main contributions of this work. Filtering and segmentation of the point clouds allowed the extraction of the trauma depths for later comparison. The systematic errors reported in the literature for structured light scanning equipment were confirmed, and it was statistically verified that the critical trauma measurement values are correctly measured, with a bias of 0.11 mm and standard measurement uncertainty of 0.12 mm. Finally, a real ballistic vest test shows the applicability in a practical scenario.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the performance of a 3D structured light scanner for measuring trauma depths caused by projectiles. The depth estimation process from point clouds was developed, and the systematic errors of the scanning equipment were confirmed. The applicability of the scanner was demonstrated in a real ballistic vest test.