3D modelling added to videoscope

The Olympus IPLEX NX is respected as a high-end videoscope for remote visual inspection (RVI), offering excellent image quality, manoeuvrability and user interface.

Now, thanks to a newly released software update, the IPLEX NX also enables users to generate instant 3D models for intuitive visualisation of stereo images.

Seeing the precise shape of critical components becomes easier when using IPLEX NX’s 3D modelling feature. Its stereo imaging capability helps users enhance knowledge of the target with multiple 2D/3D views and automatically provides useful information such as min/max values and locations. It also has powerful renderings such as tip-to-target and reference plane that allow users to quickly understand the target by viewing the colors of 3D models.

With the new software upgrade, users will immediately realise how easy it is to manipulate 3D models using either intuitive multi-touch gestures on the touch screen or via short-cut buttons on the existing remote control.

In order to understand the internal shapes and features of inspected components even better, the software enables virtual ‘slicing’ of 3D models. With this function, users can easily remove sections from the model to get the best possible view.

To provide high confidence in the placement of selected reference and measurement points, the new IPLEX software has a real-time connection between its 2D and 3D views. This means, for example, that when a user changes a pixel selection in 2D view, the software automatically updates the selection in 3D view. This intuitive method reduces the risk of misplaced measurement points, thus improving inspection efficiency.

The new advanced 3D modeling capabilities of the IPLEX NX come in addition to a wide range of existing high-end features for precise, comprehensive remote visual inspection. These include a high-definition CCD chip, ultra-bright laser diode illumination and the Olympus PulsarPic processor to reduce halation to deliver clear images/videos, especially in highly reflective environments such as the interior of gas turbines.

Commenting on the new 3D modelling capabilities of the IPLEX NX, Guan-Lu Zhang, product marketing manager at Olympus Europa said: “The new 3D modelling software upgrade is an excellent addition to the existing powerful features of the IPLEX NX stereo measurement system, which is designed to provide repeatable and reliable results to critical remote visual inspections.”