Image Processing Apparatus for Complex Object Surface Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing techniques fail to obtain high-accuracy evaluations of surface characteristics like color irregularity and orange peel on objects with complex shapes due to shape-related influences on evaluation results.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that acquires first image data and three-dimensional shape data of an object, determines a flat area based on the three-dimensional shape, and evaluates surface characteristics using a color difference map to isolate the flat area from design-related features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image processing is performed on objects with complicated shapes, then the evaluation can cover more complex objects, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to shape-related influences on evaluation results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the object surface into flat areas and non-flat areas based on three-dimensional shape information. By dividing the evaluation target into specific flat regions, the system isolates areas suitable for accurate surface characteristic evaluation from areas where shape effects would interfere, thereby maintaining measurement precision while extending adaptability to complex-shaped objects.
2Area of stationary object
If the entire object surface is evaluated, then the evaluation coverage is maximized, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inclusion of shape-affected areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by evaluating different areas of the object surface with different criteria. Flat areas are selected for accurate surface characteristic evaluation, while non-flat areas are excluded or handled differently. This localized approach ensures high measurement precision in evaluated regions while maintaining reasonable overall coverage.
3Measurement precision
If shape information is used to determine evaluation areas, then the measurement precision improves by excluding shape-affected areas, but the device complexity increases due to additional three-dimensional shape acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the imaging device multi-functional by enabling it to perform both conventional two-dimensional image processing and three-dimensional shape measurement. By integrating 3D shape acquisition capability into the imaging device, the system can automatically determine suitable evaluation areas without requiring separate specialized equipment, thus improving measurement precision while limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 high-accuracy evaluation of surface characteristics by reducing the influence of shape-related factors, allowing for precise assessment even on objects with complicated shapes.
Implementation Method 1
acquire three-dimensional shape information of a target object based on image data obtained by irradiating the target object with pattern light and capturing an image of the target object
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first acquisition unit configured to acquire first image data obtained by capturing an image of an object, a second acquisition unit configured to acquire a three-dimensional shape of the object based on second image data obtained by irradiating the object with pattern light and capturing an image of the object, a determination unit configured to determine a flat area on the object based on the three-dimensional shape of the object, and an evaluation unit configured to evaluate a surface characteristic of the flat area on the object based on the first image data.