Generator Vent Hole Blockage Detection via Optical Luminance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inspection methods for vent holes in generators are inaccurate and time-consuming, particularly in detecting blockages that can lead to abnormal vibrations due to temperature increases, as they rely on human observation or endoscope insertion.
Innovation Solution
An inspection system comprising an illuminator, imager, and processor that irradiates light into vent holes, acquires images, and detects blockages based on luminance, using binarization and centroid/surface area analysis to determine abnormalities, thereby enhancing detection accuracy and reducing inspection time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional inspection methods (human observation or endoscope insertion) are used, then the inspection process is simple to implement, but the detection accuracy is low and inspection time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical inspection methods (endoscope insertion) and human observation with an automated optical inspection system that uses illuminators, imagers, and image processing algorithms to detect vent hole blockages, thereby improving detection accuracy and reducing inspection time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the vent hole interior by irradiating light and capturing the reflected light with an imager, then analyzes this copy through image processing to detect blockages, eliminating the need for direct mechanical inspection
2Measurement precision
If conventional inspection methods are used, then the equipment complexity is low, but the measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is divided into distinct functional modules: illuminators for light irradiation, imagers for image capture, and image processing units for analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while achieving high detection accuracy through coordinated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary to indirectly observe the vent hole interior. By irradiating light into the vent holes and analyzing the reflected light patterns, the system can detect blockages without direct mechanical contact, improving precision while managing complexity through non-invasive measurement
3Measurement precision
If automated image processing is implemented, then detection accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing system analyzes multiple parameters including luminance values, binary image patterns, and centroid positions to detect blockages. By changing and analyzing multiple parameters simultaneously, the system achieves high detection accuracy while the modular architecture manages the inherent complexity
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
The system accurately detects vent hole blockages by analyzing luminance and geometric parameters, significantly improving detection accuracy and reducing inspection time compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
The illuminator irradiates light into an interior of a hole. The imager acquires a first image by imaging the interior of the hole where the light is irradiated.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an inspection system includes an illuminator, an imager, and a processor. The illuminator irradiates light into an interior of a hole. The imager acquires a first image by imaging the interior of the hole where the light is irradiated. The processor detecting a blockage of at least a portion of the hole based on a luminance of the hole inside the first image.