Analysis of Blend Irregularity in Yarns Using Image Processing Part Ⅲ: Evaluation of Blend Irregularity by Line Sense and Its Application to Actual Blended Yarns

摘要

In Parts Ⅰ and Ⅱ of this series, we discussed the precision and efficacy of an image processing system for evaluating blend irregularity in blended yarns using three kinds of model yarns, and reported on the application of that system to actual blended yarns. That system involved converting original images into trivalued images (black fibers, white fibers, and gray background), which enabled quantitative evaluation of the blend irregularity on the surface of a short length of yarn (about 4 mm). However, that system required threshold values for converting original images into trivalued images, and also needed a considerable amount of processing time and experience. This study deals with a new system to evaluate blend irregularities by measuring line sense (a series of intensity values) around the center line along a yarn axis without converting the original image and by analyzing the distribution of the intensity values. This method saves processing time and provides a real-time evaluation of the blend state (fiber arrangement). We have studied the feasibility of evaluating blend irregularities by means of measuring line sense with this system using two kinds of model yarns, where the numbers of component fibers, blend ratios, and blend states are known. We also discuss application of the system to actual blended yarns.