A method and a device for generating a control signal for a controllable device are provided. The controllable device has an optical position detection system. At least two images of at least one spatial region are generated with at least one optical detection device of the optical position detection system. Markers are identified in the images and the control signal is generated when a relative position between at least two markers changes. In addition, a marker array and a controllable system are provided.

A system and method for performing noncontact three-dimensional (3D) coordinates. The system including a system includes a noncontact three-dimensional (3D) measuring device operable to measure 3D coordinates of an object. A stage is operable to rotate the object. A mechanical arm is coupled to the 3D measuring device, the mechanical arm being operable to rotate the 3D measuring device in a first arc about a first axis and in a second arc about a second axis, the first arc larger than the second arc.

A system and apparatus for navigating and tracking a robotic platform includes a non-contact velocity sensor module set positioned on the robotic platform for measuring a velocity of the robotic platform relative to a target surface. The non-contact velocity sensor module set may include a coherent light source that is emitted towards the target surface and reflected back to the coherent light source. Measuring the change in intensity of the reflected coherent light source may be used to determine the velocity of the robotic platform based on the its relationship with the principles of a Doppler frequency shift. A communication unit may also be utilized to transmit data collected from the non-contact velocity sensor set to a computer for data processing. A computer is then provided on the robotic platform to process data collected from the non-contact velocity sensor set. A user may then monitor the determined trajectory path of the robotic platform and transmit navigation instructions to the robotic platform based on the received trajectory path data.