Book excerpt: Choosing from the numerous 3D vision methods available can be frustrating for scientists and engineers, especially without a comprehensive resource to consult. Filling this gap, this handbook gives an in-depth look at the most popular 3D imaging techniques. Written by key players in the field and inventors of important imaging technologies, it helps you understand the core of 3D imaging technology and choose the proper 3D imaging technique for your needs. For each technique, the book provides its mathematical foundations, summarizes its successful applications, and discusses its limitations.