Mechatronic system for measuring hot-forged automotive parts based on image analysis

In-process measurement of parts is a field of constant research. Conventionally, industries have used traditional measuring instruments, such as vernier calipers, or even coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), to perform the control quality. In this paper, a system that is both based on machine vision techniques and integrated with a mechatronic system has been developed with the goal of automating the in-process inspection of hot-forged parts. This system uses six cameras, which are installed around the part to be measured. First, the images obtained from the cameras are processed, and thus the part's dimensions are estimated. Then a statistical analysis is deployed in order to decide if the part may be approved or not. The experimental results validate the application of the proposed method for measuring parts during their processing in real shop floor conditions.