Applying Image Processing Methods to Positional Error Evaluation for a Microhole Array

Abstract

A microhole array is a critical feature in high-precision products, and acts as a microchannel for fluid delivery or a guiding hole for needle positioning. The precision of microhole fabrication affects the functions of product directly. This study presents a computer vision system that uses image processing methods to evaluate the positional error of a microhole array. A ceramic microhole array drilled by microdrilling process was made to demonstrate the proposed method. Analytical results show that the positional error is related to the precision of machining device noticeably and decreases with the number of holes drilled when adopts the mechanical microdrilling process.