Image Measuring Apparatus Virtual Feature Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image measuring apparatuses struggle to allow users to intuitively grasp which part of a measurement object corresponds to a measured value, especially when the object is not within the field of view or is mounted at an angle, making it difficult to visualize the measurement results accurately.
Innovation Solution
An image measuring apparatus and computer program that include an imaging unit, displaying unit, feature image specification receiving unit, measurement position specification receiving unit, relative position storing unit, attitude and position identifying unit, edge portion detecting unit, and measurement result displaying unit, which enable users to specify feature images, measurement positions, and display measurement results at accurate positions, even when the object is not fully within the field of view or is angled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement object is not within the field of view or is mounted at an angle, then the measurement can still be performed, but the user cannot intuitively grasp which part of the object corresponds to the measurement result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the measurement object's feature image and superimposes it on the displayed image. This virtual feature image serves as a reference marker that maintains its position and orientation regardless of how the actual object is mounted or positioned relative to the field of view. Users can visually match the virtual feature image with the actual object to intuitively understand which part is being measured, even when the object is partially outside the field of view or angled incorrectly.
2Productivity
If the measurement object is partially outside the field of view, then the measurement can be performed on the visible portion, but the user cannot visually confirm the measurement position on the object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual feature image as an intermediary element between the actual measurement object and the measurement result display. This virtual feature image is superimposed on the displayed image at a position that corresponds to the actual feature on the object. It acts as a visual mediator that bridges the gap between the measured portion (visible in the field of view) and the corresponding physical location on the object, allowing users to accurately identify measurement positions even when parts of the object are outside the field of view.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement object is mounted at an incorrect angle, then the measurement can still be performed, but the measurement result cannot be visually confirmed due to orientation mismatch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the feature image that replicates the exact appearance and orientation of the actual feature on the object. This virtual feature image is superimposed on the displayed image maintaining its correct orientation relative to the object's features, regardless of how the object is mounted. Users can visually compare the virtual feature image with the actual object to confirm measurement accuracy and identify orientation issues, even when the object is mounted at incorrect angles.
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
Enables users to accurately visualize and confirm which part of the measurement object corresponds to the measurement results without relying on the object's attitude or position, by storing feature images and relative positions, and adjusting display positions to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
acquires an image by image formation of transmitted light or reflected light of the applied light on an imaging device, such as a CCD (charge coupled device) and CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor)
Data Source
AI summary
An image of a measurement object is displayed, and specification of a feature image and a measurement position is received on the displayed image. The feature image, the specification has been received, and information on relative positions for the feature image, which represents the measurement position and a display position of a dimension line, are stored. A newly acquired image of the measurement object is compared with the feature image to identify information on the attitude and the position of the image of the measurement object. A measurement position is set for the image of the measurement object with the identified attitude and position, and then predetermined physical quantities are measured. Based on the stored information on the relative position for the feature image displaying the dimension line, a dimension line indicating a measurement position and a measurement result are displayed at predetermined positions.