Catadioptric projector systems, devices, and methods

Catadioptric projector systems, devices, and methods are provided in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include a catadioptric projector that may include: a radiation source; a static pattern generating element and/or a time-varying pattern generating element configured to condition radiation from the radiation source to produce the patterned illumination; and/or a convex reflector positioned to project the patterned illumination. Some embodiments include a system that includes a catadioptric projector and a camera configured to acquire one or more images based on the patterned illumination. Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments are provided to estimate a distance to a point on an object based on the one or more acquired images.