Method of testing a surface non-destructively in particular in a hostile environment

摘要

A method for obtaining data representing the physical dimensions of a physical three-dimensional object without actually measuring the dimensions of the object. The data is obtained by providing a video image of the object and a model data representing an ideal model of the object. The model data is used to construct a model image, which is then superimposed over the video image. The model data is then modified until the model image exactly overlaps the video image. At that point, the data as so modified represents the physical dimensions of the object. The method is particularly suitable for inspecting object and surfaces for defects, especially when human presence is not desired.