LaserVideo Imaging
 What
is it?
By measuring the amount of light scattered from a
surface, LTC's sensors
produce qualitative images of the surface condition. These
LaserVideo images complement the profile data by revealing
discoloration,
cracks, small scratches and
variations in surface roughnesssubtle features
that may be difficult to detect in the dimensional data. A high
resolution LaserVideo image looks like a monochrome
photograph of the scanned surface.
LaserVideo imaging
is one of the technologies used in LTC's Laser MicroMap
system and is supported by our
LaserViewer software.
Benefits of LaserVideo imaging
include:
 High
resolution scans that provide nearly photographic quality images
of surface features
LaserVideo images can be obtained as part
of a normal laser profilometry scan
Calibrated displays allow operators to
accurately measure features
No additional equipment required LaserVideo images are frequently used to
complement profilometry data and can be a powerful tool
in assessing the condition of critical components.
How does it work?
LaserVideo images are
generated by scanning a tightly-focused
laser spot over a target surface and collecting the scattered light on
a photodetector.
Because each point is imaged individually, the depth of field can be much
greater than
typically obtained with
traditional imaging systems. In addition, the laser beam can be
focused to a small spot down to approximately 0.001inch (0.025 mm), so very high
resolution images can be obtained.
Scanning a sensor in two
dimensions and plotting the relative intensity of light received at
the photodetector
yields a monochrome LaserVideo
image of the surface. When the sensor delivery mechanism moves the
sensor parallel to the target surface, the image will be free of distortion even for highly contoured
surfaces and miniature tubes as small as 6 mm.
Traditional optical systems utilizing mirror imaging systems and borescopes
inherently have a difficult time imaging such surfaces without
distortion.
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