Augmented Reality Inspection System for Traceable Component Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Human error and variability in component inspection processes introduce uncertainty, necessitating improved methods for ensuring consistent and traceable measurements in manufacturing settings.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an augmented reality (AR) system that generates graphical elements to guide operators during measurements, captures images of the inspection process, and stores measurement values with augmented images, ensuring alignment with virtual references and operator inputs, thereby enhancing measurement accuracy and traceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If human operators perform inspections using traditional instruments, then the inspection process is flexible and adaptable, but measurement precision and consistency deteriorate due to human error and variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of AR glasses, a camera, and a processing unit that mediates between the operator and the measurement instrument. This intermediary captures images, overlays AR graphical elements indicating correct measurement positions and orientations, and processes measurement data, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining operational flexibility without requiring complete automation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with an optoelectronic system. Traditional mechanical inspection methods are substituted with an AR-based system that uses optical fields (AR graphical elements overlaid on real-world views) and electronic data processing to guide measurements and capture images, eliminating human error in reading and recording while maintaining the flexibility of manual operation
2Reliability
If mandatory systematic inspection is implemented to ensure quality, then measurement consistency improves, but inspection time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback mechanisms where the AR system displays graphical elements indicating the correct position and orientation of the measurement instrument, and the camera captures images that provide visual feedback on whether the measurement is being performed correctly. This feedback loop ensures measurement consistency while allowing operators to complete inspections efficiently without unnecessary delays
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the AR system with graphical elements that indicate the correct measurement positions and orientations before the actual measurement takes place. The system prepares measurement guides and capture parameters in advance, allowing operators to perform inspections more quickly and consistently without needing to review procedures during the measurement process
3Loss of information
If measurement values are recorded without contextual information, then data storage is simplified, but traceability and validation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple types of information into a single integrated data structure. The measurement value, the augmented image capturing the measurement context, and metadata about the measurement process are combined into one traceable record. This merging approach ensures complete traceability and validation capability while simplifying data storage and management compared to maintaining separate data records
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the measurement context through the augmented image captured by the camera. This copy includes visual information about the component, the measurement instrument position, and the AR graphical elements, serving as a permanent record that can be stored and retrieved without requiring complex physical documentation systems
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for producing a traceable measurement of a component are provided. One or more augmented reality (AR) graphical elements, indicative of a measurement to be performed on the component using a local measurement instrument, are generated. The AR graphical elements are rendered via an AR device. One or more measurement values, associated with the measurement as performed on the component using the local measurement instrument, are obtained. An augmented image comprising a representation of the component, a representation of the local measurement instrument obtaining the measurement values, and a representation of the AR graphical elements is acquired. The measurement values are stored in association with the augmented image.