3D Shape Measurement Alignment Using Stored Reference Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional shape data generation systems face challenges in accurately measuring multiple workpieces of the same shape due to alignment marker fluctuations, different attitudes, and measurement errors, especially when different individuals perform measurements or over time, leading to inconsistent results and rework.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional shape data generation apparatus that stores measurement files associating alignment images with measurement conditions, allowing for accurate placement of workpieces by displaying past alignment images alongside live images, thereby reducing measurement errors and rework.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If alignment markers are used to ensure accurate measurement positioning, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to fluctuations in marker number and position when different persons perform measurements or over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a reference workpiece with predetermined alignment markers to create a reference alignment image. This reference copy is stored and reused for aligning multiple workpieces, eliminating the need for operators to repeatedly create alignment images. The reference alignment image serves as a consistent template that ensures reliable positioning across different measurements and operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary alignment by capturing an alignment image of a reference workpiece with predetermined alignment markers and storing this reference alignment image. This preliminary action creates a baseline for subsequent alignment operations. When measuring actual workpieces, the system compares their alignment images against the pre-stored reference, ensuring consistent positioning without requiring real-time alignment marker placement by operators.
2Productivity
If multiple workpieces are measured to improve productivity, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in aligning different workpieces with consistent accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal reference alignment image that can be applied to align multiple different workpieces. Instead of creating separate alignment procedures for each workpiece, the system uses a single reference alignment image as a universal template. This allows consistent alignment across all workpieces, enabling high-volume measurement while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system captures an alignment image of a reference workpiece and stores it as a reference alignment image. This reference copy is then used to align multiple actual workpieces by comparing their alignment images against the stored reference. This copying approach ensures that all workpieces are aligned to the same standard, enabling consistent precision across high-volume production.
3Ease of operation
If alignment images are displayed to guide workpiece placement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to storage and processing of multiple measurement files
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential alignment information from the reference workpiece and stores it as a reference alignment image. By taking out only the alignment-related visual data and separating it from the full measurement process, the system simplifies the display and processing requirements. Operators can view and reference this extracted alignment image without dealing with complex measurement files, reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of use.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus ensures consistent and accurate measurement of multiple workpieces by aligning them based on past alignment images, reducing measurement errors and eliminating the need for repeated alignment settings, thus enhancing measurement precision and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating a workpiece placed on a stage with structured light having a predetermined pattern, receiving the structured light reflected from the workpiece by an imaging unit
Data Source
AI summary
To suppress an error between measurements when a plurality of workpieces having the same shape are measured. A three-dimensional shape data generation apparatus includes: a storage unit that stores a plurality of measurement files in which each of measurement conditions of a workpiece and each of alignment images are associated with each other; a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a live image of the workpiece and an alignment image associated with one measurement file from among the plurality of measurement files stored in the storage unit; a reception unit that receives a measurement start instruction of the workpiece; and a measurement control unit that controls a structured illumination unit and an imaging unit based on the measurement condition associated with the one measurement file in response to the measurement start instruction.