Thermal Image Retrieval Using Feature-Based Geometric Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermography systems face inefficiencies and high error risks in retrieving and processing thermal images, particularly when repeatedly analyzing the same scene or object, due to manual handling and poor alignment between images.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for feature-based retrieval of thermal images, using a reference image to determine corresponding locations in retrieved images, applying a transformation function for geometric alignment, and placing thermographic tools on these locations, enabling efficient and accurate scene comparison over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and alignment methods are used for retrieving and processing thermal images, then the process is simple to implement, but efficiency is low and error risk is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling and alignment operations with automated computer-based image processing systems. The system automatically retrieves thermal images, aligns them using feature-based methods, and processes measurement locations without manual intervention, thereby improving both efficiency and reducing errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically performing image retrieval, alignment, and measurement location determination without requiring manual handling. The computer system autonomously processes the thermal images and generates results, eliminating human error and improving productivity.
2Measurement precision
If feature-based retrieval and transformation functions are used, then alignment precision and measurement accuracy improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces transformation functions as intermediaries that mathematically map measurement locations from a reference image to corresponding locations in retrieved thermal images. This intermediary mechanism enables precise alignment and measurement without requiring complex manual alignment procedures, achieving high precision while maintaining system manageability.
3Productivity
If automated image retrieval and processing is implemented, then productivity and accuracy improve, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing and indexing thermal images in the database with their metadata and features. When a retrieval request is made, the system has already prepared the images for quick access and automated processing, thereby improving productivity without requiring the user to perform complex operations during the actual retrieval and analysis phase.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an image processing system of processing thermal images captured using a thermal imaging system. The processing comprises determining a reference image depicting a scene and retrieving, from a number of thermal images comprised in a data storage, a set of one or more thermal images based on a predetermined similarity measure. A measurement location in the reference image is determined, and for each of the one or more retrieved thermal images: a corresponding measurement location in the respective retrieved thermal image is determined; and a thermographic tool is placed on the corresponding measurement location in the respective retrieved thermal image.