Superimposed Scale Image for Automated Crack Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crack measurement techniques require significant time and effort, especially when multiple scales need to be attached or adjusted, and are difficult to use when the measurement target is inaccessible.
Innovation Solution
A measurement support apparatus and method that includes an image acquisition unit, a scale image generation unit, and an image display unit, which generates and displays a scale image superimposed on the structure image based on the distance and orientation of the measurement surface, allowing for quick and easy crack measurement by adjusting the scale image's position and direction automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple crack scales are attached or switched between to measure different cracks, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement time and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single crack scale that can measure multiple cracks of different sizes and orientations by integrating both horizontal and vertical scale markings on one device. This universal crack scale eliminates the need to attach or switch between multiple separate scales, allowing inspectors to measure various crack configurations using one standardized tool, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The crack scale is divided into distinct functional segments: horizontal scale markings for measuring crack length, vertical scale markings for measuring crack width, and orientation indicators for determining crack direction. This segmentation allows the single scale to handle different measurement tasks independently within one unified device, improving versatility without requiring multiple separate instruments.
2Measurement precision
If a crack scale is physically attached to the measurement target, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates when the target is inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device that captures images of cracks in inaccessible locations. The crack scale is then superimposed on these captured images through image processing, allowing measurements to be performed on digital representations rather than requiring physical access to the crack. This intermediary approach maintains measurement accuracy while eliminating the need for inspectors to physically reach difficult-to-access areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the crack through image capture and then performs measurements on this copy by superimposing the crack scale. This copying method allows the measurement process to be conducted remotely on reproduced images, preserving measurement precision while significantly improving ease of operation for inaccessible targets.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the scale position and direction are manually adjusted, then measurement flexibility is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic position and orientation adjustment of the superimposed crack scale based on feedback from image processing. The system analyzes the captured crack image, determines the crack's position and direction, and automatically positions and orients the crack scale accordingly. This feedback mechanism eliminates manual adjustment while maintaining measurement flexibility, as the system adapts the scale placement based on the actual crack characteristics detected in the image.
Solution Approach 2:
The crack scale positioning and orientation system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting crack parameters from the captured image and configuring the scale accordingly. The system serves itself by autonomously determining the optimal scale placement without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing operation complexity while preserving the ability to measure cracks in various positions and orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement support apparatus includes an image acquisition unit; a scale image generation unit, the scale image representing a scale assigned at least one of gradations for measuring a length of the crack or line drawings and numerals for measuring a width of the crack; and an image display unit that displays the image of the structure and the scale image in a superimposed manner in a display area, in which the scale image generation unit generates a scale image in accordance with a distance between the image acquisition unit and the measurement surface and an orientation of the measurement surface, and the image display unit displays the generated scale image in the superimposed manner at a position according to a position of the crack in the image of the structure in a direction according to a direction of the crack in the image of the structure.