This paper surveys a cutting-edge technology based on phase-aided three dimensional imaging and metrology (PA3DM). The imaging modality and the calibration of the PA3DM and an optical measurement network based on multiple PA3DM node sensors are formulated, which are closely related to the camera model. The phase extraction and phase unwrapping as well as the homologous point-pair searching for range image reconstruction are discussed under a framework of active stereo imaging. Typical post-processing techniques, including range image registration, integration, and simplification are also discussed in detail. Meanwhile the error sources impacting on the accuracy of PA3DM-based imaging and metrology system are also analyzed from point of view of each crucial step such as system calibration, range image reconstruction and post-processing.