Cotton Fiber Image Classification for Short Fiber Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring and classifying cotton fibers are inaccurate, particularly in determining the length of short fibers, leading to inefficiencies in processing and increased contamination, and lack the ability to provide a quantitative and qualitative analysis of fiber characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A method involving image processing techniques to analyze fiber layers, applying filters to acquired images, segmenting fibers into groups, and calculating lengths and characteristics, allowing for precise classification and characterization of fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional beard sample preparation method is used, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision of fiber length is poor and only estimated quantitative analysis is obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual preparation and estimation method with an automated image processing system using digital cameras and computer algorithms to automatically measure fiber length and characteristics, achieving precise measurement while eliminating manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the physical fiber sample, then analyzes this copy through image processing to determine fiber characteristics without physically manipulating the original sample, enabling precise non-contact measurement
2Productivity
If short fiber proportion increases due to mechanical picking and hard ginning, then productivity is improved, but measurement accuracy of short fibers deteriorates and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters by using image processing algorithms that can detect and measure fibers of all lengths including very short fibers, with the ability to set customizable length thresholds (e.g., 10mm, 11mm, 13mm, 13.5mm) to accurately determine short fiber proportion regardless of how low the absolute value is
3Productivity
If a large proportion of short fibers is present, then productivity may be maintained, but fly contamination and strain on personnel and machines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides accurate feedback on the actual short fiber proportion and distribution through automated image analysis, enabling operators to make informed decisions about processing parameters and contamination control measures based on precise quantitative data rather than estimates
4Ease of operation
If standard short-fiber limit is set at 13 or 13.5 mm, then classification is simplified, but measurement accuracy deteriorates because short fibers cannot be measured easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing a complete digital image of all fibers in the sample before measurement, allowing the system to analyze and measure fibers of any length including those at the standard threshold (13mm or 13.5mm) with high precision through automated image processing rather than manual measurement
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a method (500) of retracing of fiber in a fiber layer (900). Said fiber layer (900) is spread on a surface such as to acquire (510) an image (511) of said fiber layer (900) comprising a plurality of fibers (910) including at least one fiber (911). At least one image-filter (531) is applied to said acquired image (511) and a at least one list (120) is created (570) per said at least one fiber (911) such as to classify said fiber.