Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
School of Information Technology
Department of Computer Science
Selected Highlights from Research Findings
Defects on car panels. Prof AP Engelbrecht and Dr F van den Bergh from the Department are actively involved in an image analysis research project for BMW. The contract concerns the development of a software tool to detect defects on the outside panels of the BMW 3-series. Using an industrial robot, a high-resolution camera and horizontally projected laser light are moved over the panels, such that the camera is perpendicular to the surface of the panel and the projected line is in the field of view of the camera. Image analysis algorithms are used to detect deviations in the line projected on the surface of the panels caused by small dents and bumps. The scanning of panels is done before spray painting of the car. If such defects are not identified before painting, high costs are incurred since defects are clearly visible after painting. This then implies dismantling of the car to remove and replace the defect panel.
Currently, the model has been developed to scan only the roof of cars. After successful installation, it will be extended to all the outside panels. A prototype was demonstrated successfully in January 2003, and implementation in the Rosslyn plant is planned for mid-April 2003.
Contact person: Prof AP Engelbrecht.
|
