BAE Systems PLC
Inspection of drilled features in objects

Abstract:

Disclosed is a method and apparatus for determining a depth of a feature (4) formed in an object (2), the feature (4) having been formed in the object (2) by a cutting tool (38). The apparatus comprises: a camera (42) configured to capture an image of the feature (4) and a portion of the object (2) proximate to the feature (4); and one or more processors operatively coupled to the camera (42) and configured to: detect, in the image, an edge (72) of the feature (4) between the feature (4) and a surface of the object (2); using the detected edge (72), calculate a diameter for a circle (74, 76, 78); acquire a point angle of the cutting tool (38); and, using the calculated diameter and the acquired point angle, calculate a depth value for the feature (4).