Method and apparatus for detecting and analyzing directionally reflective surface flaws

摘要

An inspection system for imaging and analyzing anisotropically reflecting surface flaws uses a side-looking borescope-type optical probe device for acquiring images of a region on the surface of an object and a computer for analyzing the images. The head of the probe includes a special integral lighting arrangement for illuminating the surface of the object in a manner that assures detection of anisotropically reflecting surface flaws. The borescope configuration of the optical probe along with its integral lighting and imaging arrangement allows it to be used in spatially confined environments where conventional methods and equipment for viewing anisotropically reflecting surface flaws would not be feasible. The special lighting arrangement employs multiple single light sources arranged in a circular array around a central image receiving device. Light sources in the array are individually and sequentially activated in a progressive manner such that light emanating from the array changes position in an orbital fashion about the image receiving device. Video images of the surface are acquired for each distinct direction of illumination. The acquired images are simultaneously displayed in real time on a monitor and are also stored for further analysis and processing. Features of an imaged area which are likely to be significant are displayed enhanced or otherwise marked on the same or a secondary monitor so as to alert an operator to suspect regions.