Vertical XY Table with Ultrasonic as a Scanner?

Hello, this is my first post.
I want to create something that generates an image with depth instead of color.
If I stand an XY table vertically and attach an ultrasonic sensor at the head, then I could scan each "pixel" at a time.
Does anyone have any recommendations how to do this? Or, is even there a better way to do this? The setting will be outside during the day, so sensors that require darkness won't be useful.

  • I'm trying to keep this under $100. I can use the spare parts of old printers and electronics.

Hi,

What's the maximum distance you're interested in 'seeing' ?

Geoff

Probably around 3 feet. And, The scanner's head should move around at least 3ft x 3ft (width x height).

What sort of depth resolution do you need?

You can get 'Pencil-beam' (15 degree beam width) ultrasonic transducers (like http://www.robotshop.com/devantech-srf235-pencil-beam-range-1.html), but they aren't cheap. The distance range is 10cm to 120cm.

If necessary, I can always move the table closer or farther back depending on whatever scanning head. Although, the pencil beam ultrasonic is pretty cool. I will be smoothing the "image" then comparing and combining to several color images from different perspectives, so a very precise resolution will matter less. I think if it can be correct within an inch or two, then I'll be very happy.

It is probably a greater range then you need but for $25 SparkFun Simon Says - Through-Hole Soldering Kit - KIT-10547 - SparkFun Electronics? or any of the other Maxbotix sensors work quite nicely with great accuracy - up to 6.45 meters.The program on the Arduino lesson page works perfectly with it

You could do this with a USB camera and a laser that generates a line. And a computer :wink:

http://abarry.org/stereo/index.htm

It's a bit of math and programming but the technique is obviously quite accurate.