Application of image processing to automated sewing system

Since inspection, ID-code recognition, and pattern match processes requiring vision depend upon the high-grade human recognition capability, these processes have conventionally caused a bottle-neck in automatizing sewing system. However, the authors have recently developed the technology of inspecting the surface defects of textiles and recognizing ID-code by fully utilizing the image processing technology. In the ID-code recognition technology, the most difficult data given on patterns can be read as a result of developing the image processing technology and eliminating noises by using a special (fluorescent) ink. The inspection and pattern match technology was verified to be able to put into practical use through evaluation experiments in an experimental plant.