Testing of automobile elastomeric seals using computer vision

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Testing of automobile elastomeric seals using computer vision

Nwagboso, C.O.

The increasing performance requirements and technological sophistication of modern vehicles have continued to underpin the need to ensure that all the components contributing to vehicle performance are monitored and tested with the up-to-date and best available technique. One of such components is the elastomeric seals fitted in actuators, brake systems, axles/wheel systems and most hydraulic systems. The performance of these systems depend on the ability of the elastomeric seals to perform the sealing functions. A method is described for producing and analysing the images of an automotive dynamic seal under varying operating conditions. The test method involves the application of computer vision systems using CCD camera, optical fibres, image processor and opto-mechanical test rig. The test rig allows the seal to be tested under actual motion and displacement of the seal in their usual operating environment. The description in this paper will only concentrate on the image processing of the test strategy.