OCT Surface Imaging with Image Overlay for Faster Scan Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical coherence tomography (OCT) methods require a large number of scans and significant time expenditure to generate three-dimensional profile images of workpiece surfaces, with challenges in accurately positioning the OCT system and assigning scan data to the workpiece region.
Innovation Solution
A method that combines OCT scanning with reflected-light image processing, allowing for the superimposition of two-dimensional images and height profiles to facilitate faster and more precise positioning of OCT scans, reducing the number of necessary scans by selecting specific image excerpts for scanning and using image processing to determine surface features and position the OCT system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of OCT scans are performed to generate three-dimensional profile images with useful resolution and fields of view, then the measurement precision and completeness of surface imaging is improved, but the time expenditure and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the workpiece surface into multiple regions of interest (ROIs) and performs OCT scanning selectively on these segmented regions rather than scanning the entire surface. This segmentation approach maintains measurement precision for critical areas while significantly reducing the total number of scans required, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing essential measurement quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial scanning by performing OCT measurements only on selected regions of interest rather than conducting exhaustive scans of the entire workpiece surface. This partial action approach captures sufficient three-dimensional profile data for quality control purposes while reducing scan time and computational load, effectively balancing measurement precision with productivity.
2Measurement precision
If the correct positioning of the optical coherence tomograph is determined through multiple OCT scans, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the time expenditure for positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning using reflected-light imaging to identify regions of interest and determine approximate positions before conducting OCT scans. This preliminary action provides initial positioning information that guides subsequent OCT measurements, reducing the number of positioning scans needed and minimizing time loss while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reflected-light imaging as an intermediary step between rough positioning and precise OCT measurement. This intermediary technique provides intermediate positioning information that bridges the gap between initial setup and final precise measurement, reducing the time required for positioning while ensuring accurate OCT scan placement.
3Measurement precision
If multiple OCT scans are performed to assign scan data to workpiece regions, then the assignment accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges reflected-light imaging data with OCT scan data into a unified coordinate system, allowing accurate assignment of scan data to workpiece regions through data fusion rather than requiring multiple separate positioning scans. This merging approach maintains assignment accuracy while reducing operational complexity by integrating multiple data types into a single coherent representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where previously acquired imaging and scanning data inform subsequent scan planning and data assignment. This feedback loop allows the system to learn from previous measurements and improve data assignment accuracy over time without increasing device complexity, as the feedback is processed through software algorithms rather than additional hardware components.
4Ease of operation
If conventional reflected-light image processing is used alone to measure surface features, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the measurement precision for three-dimensional surface features deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional measurement system that can perform both conventional reflected-light imaging for simple operations and OCT scanning for precise three-dimensional measurements. The system universally handles different measurement requirements through a single integrated platform, maintaining ease of operation for simple tasks while enabling high-precision three-dimensional measurements when needed, without requiring separate specialized equipment.
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 enables faster and more accurate determination of surface features and positioning, reducing time and scan numbers while improving the understanding of workpiece surface structures, allowing for precise localization of features during laser welding processes.
Implementation Method 1
Imaging methods using optical coherence tomography (OCT) are known in the prior art. Three-dimensional profile images of workpieces can be recorded by means of OCT
Implementation Method 2
An image of the workpiece surface is recorded, in particular by a camera operating in the optical range
Data Source
AI summary
An OCT system includes an optical coherence tomograph for recording a height profile of a workpiece surface by optical scanning of the workpiece surface. The OCT system includes a camera for recording an image of the workpiece surface and a display for the joint, in particular superimposed, display of the recorded image and the recorded height profile of the workpiece surface. A method for displaying an optically scanned region of a workpiece surface is also provided.