Optical Image Measuring Apparatus with Piezoelectric Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical image measuring systems face challenges in accurately measuring small electronic and mechanical components due to limitations in precision and the generation of scratches by contact probes, and they require long times to acquire image frames with potential driving errors from constant speed actuation.
Innovation Solution
An optical image measuring apparatus that adjusts the capturing interval between frames by compensating driving signals for the piezoelectric actuator and lamp, using a CCD camera, an illumination controller, and an image signal processor to remove noise and high-frequency components, and estimate height information from acquired images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a contact-type surface illuminance measuring apparatus using a contact probe is used, then surface illuminance can be measured, but the tip of the contact probe generates fine scratches on the surface of the object to be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the contact-type mechanical measurement system with an optical measurement system. Specifically, it uses a CCD camera to capture images of the object surface illuminated by lamps, eliminating the need for contact probes that cause scratches. The optical system measures surface illuminance and height information through image processing rather than physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the object surface using a CCD camera instead of direct physical contact. The image captures the reflected light information from the object surface, allowing measurement of surface properties without physically touching the object, thus avoiding scratch generation.
2Device complexity
If the piezoelectric actuator is driven at constant speed, then the image capturing process can be simplified, but a driving error may occur according to the shape of the object P
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the driving signal of the piezoelectric actuator is adjusted based on real-time information from the CCD camera. The system detects the object's surface shape through captured images and modifies the actuator driving signal accordingly, ensuring accurate positioning despite variations in object geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static constant-speed actuator control to dynamic control. The actuator driving signal is continuously adjusted based on the captured image information and detected object characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to different object shapes and maintain measurement precision throughout the scanning process.
3Extent of automation
If the CCD camera captures and outputs images whenever the image capturing unit generates trigger signals, then image acquisition can be automated, but it takes a long time for acquiring an image frame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning the piezoelectric actuator and adjusting the optical system before actual image capture. The system prepares the scanning position and illumination conditions in advance, then executes rapid image acquisition once triggered, reducing the overall time required for frame capture while maintaining automation.
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
Enhances the accuracy and precision of image measurement by compensating driving signals and removing noise, thereby improving the speed and reliability of capturing image frames and reducing errors.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric actuator for controlling a minute height of the optical system with respect to the object
Implementation Method 2
a lamp for generating white light to illuminate a capturing area of the object
Implementation Method 3
a CCD camera for capturing the object and outputting the captured image
Implementation Method 4
interference means a phenomenon that brightness is increased or decreased when two light beams are overlapped
Data Source
AI summary
An image measuring apparatus for enhancing an accuracy of an image captured by an optical system and a method thereof are disclosed. The apparatus includes a CCD camera for capturing the object and outputting the captured image, a lamp for generating white light to illuminate a capturing area of the object, an illumination controller for controlling the lamp to be turned on, a piezoelectric actuator for controlling a minute height of the optical system with respect to the object, an image capturing device for acquiring the image captured by the CCD camera, a driving signal generator for outputting a driving signal to the illumination controller and the piezoelectric actuator when an enable signal is generated from the CCD camera, and an image signal processor for estimating height information of the object from data transmitted from the image capturing unit.