Automated Assembly Validation via Image Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual validation of complex structure assembly, such as aircraft fuselage, is time-consuming, prone to errors, and requires specialized training, making it inefficient and less accurate.
Innovation Solution
An automated validation method using a sensor system and processor to register images of the structure to a computer model, segmenting images into sections, and generating a final score based on compliance with design specifications, reducing human intervention and increasing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection is used to validate assembly condition, then specialized training and experience can be utilized, but the process becomes time-consuming and more prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical inspection process with an automated image processing system. Sensors capture images of the assembled structure, and computer processing automatically compares these images against design specifications, eliminating the need for human operators to manually examine physical components while significantly reducing validation time and improving consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies (images) of the physical structure and performs validation on these copies rather than examining the actual physical components. This allows multiple validations to be performed rapidly from identical digital representations without requiring repeated physical inspections, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If manual inspection of hundreds of printed engineering drawings is performed, then detailed validation can be achieved, but the complexity and time requirement increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex manual process of navigating hundreds of printed engineering drawings with an automated digital image processing system. The sensor system captures comprehensive images of the structure, and computer algorithms automatically compare these images against digital design specifications, maintaining detailed validation capability while eliminating the complexity of manual drawing navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional printed drawings to three-dimensional digital image processing. By capturing images that represent the physical structure in digital form and processing them computationally, the system adds the dimension of automated digital analysis, enabling detailed validation without requiring operators to manually navigate through multiple drawing sheets.
3Productivity
If automated image processing is implemented, then validation time is reduced and accuracy is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional automated validation system that performs multiple tasks: capturing images with sensors, processing images through segmentation and feature extraction, comparing results against design specifications, and generating validation reports. This universal system handles the entire validation workflow through integrated computer processing, improving productivity while consolidating complexity into a single automated platform rather than requiring multiple separate manual processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for performing an automated validation of a condition of assembly for a structure. A plurality of images of the structure are registered to a computer model of the structure in which an image in the plurality of images captures a portion of the structure. Each image in the plurality of images is segmented based on registration of the plurality of images to the computer model to form a plurality of image sections. A final score is generated for the condition of assembly of the structure based on whether each image section in the plurality of image sections meets a corresponding condition in which the final score indicates whether the condition of assembly is valid.