Paper 14108-9
Laser triangulation for measuring deformable convex surfaces with diffuse reflectivity
13 April 2026 • 16:50 - 17:10 CEST | Madrid 1/Salon 3 (Niveau/Level 0)
Abstract
This work presents a technique for accurately measuring the shape of deformable, non-specular convex surfaces, such as elastomeric membranes commonly used in soft robotics. The primary goal is to optically characterize these surfaces using a laser triangulation system. An experimental setup was developed in which a membrane was subjected to varying pressures and voltages, and its deformation profile was captured using a CMOS sensor. A laser line was projected onto the surface, and an algorithm reconstructed its three-dimensional geometry by analyzing multiple profiles acquired at 15-degree rotational intervals. The results demonstrate that the proposed method provides a reliable and effective approach for the optical characterization of soft, non-reflective materials.
Presenter
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (Mexico)
Dr. Manuel Campos-Garcia is a distinguished researcher at the Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). With over 30 years of teaching experience at UNAM’s Faculty of Sciences, he has made significant contributions to both academic and applied physics. He earned his B.Sc. in Physics from UNAM in 1995, followed by an M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Physics in 1999 and 2005, respectively, also from UNAM. He is recognized as a National Researcher by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI), underscoring his impact in the scientific community. Dr. Manuel Campos-Garcia's main research areas include Optical Metrology, Optical Testing, Optical Deflectometry, and Optical Instrumentation, with interdisciplinary applications in health, energy, and human safety. His work integrates advanced measurement technologies with practical solutions that contribute to societal well-being and environmental sustainability.