This article will show you how you can convert your webcam into a modern rangefinder without any hardware. The math is very simple, so this new technique works very well for vision applications that need to run quickly.

Here’s a great free application that will turn your web cam into a range finder that can tell distance simply by calculating the height of stuff. Now, this will work really well on the golf course as the flagstick in golf is always the same. (of course, there’s a different stand for USGA and the UK so…) 

With a simple height estimation, the program will easily calculate the range to a distant object with high precision. The software will be next upgraded with motion detection.

How to use 

1. Estimate the height of the object.
2. Calculate the AOV of your webcam (typically 70-80°).
3. Aim the base of your target with the white cross.
4. Finally, limit the top of your target with the green line.

Download

Webcam RangeFinder.zip (113,1 kB)

Link Range Estimation