systems for performing machine vision using diffuse structured light comprising : a linear diffuser having an axis of diffusion ; a light source that projects an illumination pattern through the linear diffuser and onto a scene , wherein the illumination pattern has transiationai symmetry in a . direction of translation that is aligned with the axis of diffusion ; and an image sensor that detects tight reflecting from the scene and that outputs signals corresponding to the detected light . methods for performing machine vision using diffuse structured light comprising : projecting an illumination pattern from a light source through a linear diffuser and onto a scene , wherein the linear diffuser has an axis of diffusion and the illumination pattern has transiationai symmetry in a direction of translation that is aligned with the axis of diffusion ; and detecting light reflecting from , the scene using an image sensor that outputs signals corresponding to the detected light .