Three-dimensional measurement of wheel surface topography with image processing

1^st report: Tracking measurement of diamond wheel surface topography in the grinding process

Abstract

The grinding wheel surface topography, characterized by the distribution of cutting edges, has a strong influence on grinding results, such as surface roughness, grinding force, and temperature. Thus, to optimize the high-quality grinding process, it is necessary to accurately measure the wheel surface topography. In this study, a new measuring system was developed for evaluation of wheel surface topography by measuring numerous microscopic images of the wheel. Using this system, it is possible to measure the distribution of cutting edges, height of cutting edges, and the form of the outermost wheel surface. In addition, image processing using a newly devised diamond wheel can extract cutting edges on the wheel surface with high accuracy and in a short time.