Methodology for Automatic Image-Based Inspection of Industrial Objects

Many articles have been written dealing with applic;ations of automated inspection for industry. These articles typically describe the application as well as selected algorithms and a specific proposed or implemented inspection system but do not describe the methodology of how the system was developed. This chapter attempts to describe basic concepts and general requirements for automation of an inspection application and suggests a methodology that might simplify algorithm development efforts for new applications. A systematic, general approach, which was originally developed for automatic real-time X-ray inspection of industrial objects with intricate internal structures, is described. Software-based functions for the automatic inspection are addressed, from geometric modeling of image content, through development of high-level process filters, creation of inspection process plans, and final simulation of system performance. An interactive development and simulation software environment that was designed and implemented to provide the necessary tools for automating an image-based inspection process is also described.