Image processing system for strain measurements in deformed sheet metal and Sheet metal forming - optimization based on image processing

In this pa,Der a new method and system is described and presented that makes use of marked sheet metal blanks that are deformed in a subsequent forming process. Due to the deformation the marked circles change their shape into ellipses. By measuring the major and minor axes of these elliptical deformations the major and minor strains are calculated. The system consists of an optical hand held device that is put on top of the surface to be measured. Due to the optical features the deformed circles are captured and stored in a mobile image processing system. The geometrical features are automatically calculated and the results are presented via the LCD-display in graphical and alphanumerical form and alternatively as a spread sheet information for further documentation. The presentation is given in two parts. Part one deals with the general system realization due to the process of rapid production development in the industrial environment. Part two gives more detailed information on the implications that stem from image processing and the need for accurate measurements in sheet metal production. The capturing process with a high quality optical system is presented as well as the analysis of the data captured via the mobile integrated image processing system. Remarks are given in relation to the rapid product development application.