Virtual Image Generation for Coordinate Measuring Machine Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Coordinate measurement machines require complex test plans that can only be devised and trained on when the imaging device is operated, limiting the ability to train multiple users simultaneously and impairing the quality of processes based on images.

Innovation Solution

A method to generate virtual images of measurement objects by simulating the imaging device's properties, optical properties of the workpiece, and illumination conditions, allowing for the determination of virtual positions and orientations, and using these to create accurate virtual images that can be used to optimize test plans and image processing methods without actual device operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the imaging device is operated to create test plans and train users, then the quality of measurement processes and training effectiveness is improved, but only one user can be trained at a time and device availability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of measurement processVSAvoidtraining capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates virtual images that replicate the appearance and characteristics of real measurement objects. These virtual images serve as copies that can be used for training and test plan development without requiring the actual imaging device, allowing multiple users to train simultaneously while maintaining training quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables test plans to be prepared and optimized in advance using virtual images before actual measurements are performed. This preliminary preparation improves the quality of measurement processes while allowing device availability to be maintained for actual measurements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If the imaging device is operated for training multiple users, then training capacity increases, but the quality of image-based processes deteriorates due to device availability constraints

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining capacityVSAvoidquality of image-based process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

Virtual images serve as faithful replicas of real measurement scenes, enabling multiple users to conduct training and experiments simultaneously on the same virtual measurement object without interfering with each other or requiring the physical device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If complex test plans are created with actual device operation, then measurement accuracy is improved, but time and resource consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidtest plan development time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Test plans can be developed, tested, and optimized using virtual images before actual measurements are performed. This preliminary work with virtual copies allows thorough validation of measurement strategies without consuming device time or risking actual measurements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Virtual images enable repeated testing and optimization of test plans without consuming actual device resources, allowing comprehensive validation of measurement approaches before committing to real measurements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS9721345B2Method and device for generating at least one virtual image of a measurement object
Publication Date: 2017.08.01 CARL ZEISS INDUSTRIELLE MESSTECHNIKE GMBH
  • US9721345B2 patent drawing
  • US9721345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method and a device for generating at least one virtual image of a measurement object, in which a virtual position and/or a virtual orientation of the measurement object is determined and a virtual position and/or virtual orientation of at least one imaging or image recording device of a coordinate measuring machine is determined. The virtual image is generated on the basis of geometric data of the measurement object and on the basis of optical properties of the measurement object and the virtual image is additionally generated on the basis of imaging parameters of the imaging or image recording device.