Post-weld Inspection Using Laser Vision

Visual inspection is the most common nondestructive testing method. For critical applications, machine vision technology provides advantages over visual inspection in terms of:

• Reliability
• Minimum operator subjectivity and bias
• Increased throughput
• Reduced long-term inspection time and cost
• Archival storage While the concept of using machine vision for

While the concept of using machine vision for automated inspection is not new, only recently is industry realizing the potential impact of this technology. This article focuses on the use of laser-based, structured light, machine vision technology. The setup, principles of operation and defect detection are described. An actual weld crack is presented.