Fluoroscopic Image Density Correction for Welded Pipe Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for non-destructive inspection of welded pipe defects rely heavily on inspector skill due to density irregularities in fluoroscopic images, which can vary with radiation source positioning and imaging conditions, making consistent results difficult to achieve.
Innovation Solution
A fluoroscopic image density correction method that generates reference and inspection density profiles to correct density irregularities, allowing for consistent inspection results independent of inspector skill, by calculating and applying correction information based on these profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection of fluoroscopic images is performed by inspectors, then defect identification can be achieved, but inspection results become dependent on inspector skill level and may vary between inspectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/subjective visual inspection process with an automated image processing system that uses density profile analysis and correction algorithms. The system automatically detects density irregularities, generates correction information, and processes images to enhance defect visibility, eliminating dependence on inspector skill levels and ensuring consistent, objective inspection results across different operators and inspections.
2Reliability
If density correction processing is applied to fluoroscopic images, then defect identification becomes independent of inspector skill, but additional image processing steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary density profile analysis and correction information generation automatically as part of the image processing workflow. By pre-calculating correction factors based on density profiles before final defect analysis, the system streamlines the processing steps and reduces the apparent complexity while maintaining high reliability and consistency in inspection results.
3Measurement precision
If density profiles are generated and correction information is calculated, then density irregularities can be removed from images, but additional processing time is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous density profile analysis and correction processing that operates throughout the inspection workflow. By maintaining continuous processing rather than batch processing, and by optimizing the correction algorithms to work efficiently with the imaging system's data stream, the system minimizes additional processing time while achieving uniform density correction and enhanced defect visibility.
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
This method enables consistent and accurate identification of defects in welded pipe inspections by removing density irregularities, reducing reliance on inspector skill and ensuring reliable detection of defects across varying imaging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
radiation, which originates from a radiation source and is transmitted through a welded portion of pipes, is detected by a sheet-like radiation detection medium
Data Source
AI summary
A reference density profile is generated in an outer circumference direction of a pipe having a reference welded portion on the basis of a reference fluoroscopic image generated from a radiation detection medium when a radiation source is disposed on a central axis of the pipe. A weld inspection density profile is generated in an outer circumference direction of a pipe having an inspection target welded portion on the basis of a weld inspection fluoroscopic image. On the basis of the reference density profile and the weld inspection density profile, density correction information is calculated. The density correction information is for correcting density irregularities in the weld inspection fluoroscopic image in the outer circumference direction of the pipe. On the basis of the density correction information, the density irregularities in the weld inspection fluoroscopic image arc corrected.