Line Laser 3D Imaging for Weld Gap Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine vision detection solutions for post-welding inspection are limited by structural design, cost, and application scenarios, resulting in low detection accuracy and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A machine vision detection method using a line laser to collect three-dimensional images, which are then converted to two-dimensional grayscale images to calculate the gap between components by averaging the length of perpendicular lines between their boundaries.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional industrial cameras are used for machine vision detection, then detection can be performed, but detection accuracy and detection efficiency remain low due to limitations in structural design, cost control, and matching with actual application scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional camera imaging to three-dimensional laser scanning imaging. By using a laser line scanner to capture depth information and create 3D point cloud data, the system achieves higher measurement precision for gap detection while maintaining efficient automated detection processes, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement tools and manual inspection methods with automated laser scanning and image processing systems. The laser line scanner automatically captures component surfaces and welding seams, eliminating the need for manual measurement and significantly improving both detection accuracy and efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual visual detection with auxiliary tools is used, then comprehensive inspection can be performed, but detection efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection comprehensivenessVSAvoiddetection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated self-detection through laser scanning and image processing algorithms. The laser line scanner automatically captures component surfaces, the system autonomously processes the 3D point cloud data to identify welding seams and calculate gap dimensions, eliminating the need for manual intervention and dramatically improving detection efficiency while maintaining comprehensive inspection capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The laser scanning system performs continuous automated detection without interruption. Unlike manual inspection that requires tool changes and repositioning, the laser line scanner continuously scans component surfaces and welding seams, maintaining uninterrupted detection flow and significantly improving productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If three-dimensional imaging with line laser is used, then continuous sampling without pre-calibration is enabled, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous sampling capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a calibration plate as an intermediary element that simplifies the 3D imaging system setup. The calibration plate with known geometric features serves as a reference for the laser line scanner, enabling automatic calibration and eliminating complex pre-calibration procedures. This intermediary component makes the system easier to deploy while maintaining continuous sampling capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the imaging parameter from traditional 2D grayscale images to 3D point cloud data with depth information. By capturing Z-axis depth data alongside X-Y position information, the laser line scanner enables direct measurement of gap dimensions without requiring complex calibration procedures, simplifying the system while enabling continuous sampling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach improves detection accuracy and efficiency by allowing continuous sampling without pre-calibration and effectively eliminating interference from image distortions.

Implementation Method 1

receiving a three-dimensional image from a line laser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS12322132B2Machine vision detection method, detection apparatus and detection system thereof
Publication Date: 2025.06.03 CONTEMPORARY AMPEREX TECHNOLOGY (HONG KONG) LIMITED
  • US12322132B2 patent drawing
  • US12322132B2 patent drawing
  • US12322132B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine vision detection method includes receiving a three-dimensional image from a line laser, converting the three-dimensional image into a two-dimensional grayscale image, obtaining a boundary of a first component and a boundary of a second component in the two-dimensional grayscale image, determining N perpendicular lines between the boundary of the first component and the boundary of the second component, and calculating an average length of the N perpendicular lines as a gap between the first component and the second component. The three-dimensional image includes at least a portion of the boundary of the first component, at least a portion of the boundary of the second component, and a welding spot located on the boundary of the first or second component. N is a positive integer.