Surface Uniformity Measurement Using Multi-Region Radiation Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to objectively determine the uniformity of surface coatings on motor vehicles, as human vision is limited in discerning color uniformity across different areas, especially under varying light conditions and viewing angles.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that irradiate a surface with radiation, detect and compare characteristic values from different regions, outputting a result value that reflects the relationship between these values to provide an objective measure of uniformity, using standardized white light and measuring distance between regions to assign values to specific locations, and creating a three-dimensional profile of the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If human eye is used to determine surface properties, then no additional equipment is needed, but objective determination of surface uniformity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces human visual inspection with an automated optical measurement system consisting of a radiation source, detector, and evaluation device. This substitution enables objective, quantitative measurement of surface properties such as color uniformity, eliminating the subjectivity and limitations of human eye assessment while maintaining relatively simple equipment architecture.
2Measurement precision
If radiation is irradiated onto multiple regions of the surface, then objective information about color uniformity is obtained, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the surface into multiple discrete regions (first region, second region, etc.) and systematically measures each region's radiation characteristics. By segmenting the surface and measuring specific locations, the system achieves comprehensive uniformity assessment without requiring complete surface scanning, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent measures radiation at specific predetermined locations and regions rather than continuously across the entire surface. This partial measurement approach provides sufficient objective data for uniformity assessment without the time cost of complete surface measurement, achieving the right balance between measurement accuracy and time efficiency.
3Loss of information
If distance between regions is measured, then values can be assigned to specific locations, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single evaluation device that performs multiple functions: detecting radiation from different regions, measuring distances between regions, and assigning values to specific locations. By making the evaluation device multi-functional, the system achieves accurate spatial location information without adding separate complex measurement systems for each function.
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 allows for precise, objective assessment of surface uniformity, identifying non-uniform areas and providing a direct measure of coating uniformity through statistical analysis, enabling accurate localization and quantification of color distribution across the surface.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation device (1) with a radiation source (2), which emits radiation onto a surface (5) to be examined, and at least one radiation detector device (20), which detects at least some of the radiation, which has been emitted by the at least one radiation device (1) and has then been returned by the measurement surface (5)
Implementation Method 2
The term returned radiation is to be understood as meaning, in particular but not exclusively, radiation that has been scattered at any angle, but also reflected radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining surface properties is provided, in which radiation is irradiated onto a first region of a surface to be examined, then at least some of the radiation irradiated onto the first region and returned by the latter is detected, and a measured value characteristic of this returned radiation is output. In a further step, the radiation is irradiated onto a second region of the surface and once again at least some of the radiation irradiated onto the second region and returned by the latter is detected, and a second measured value characteristic of this radiation is output. Finally, a result value is output which is characteristic of a relationship between the first measured value and the second measured value.