FLUID MEASUREMENT METHOD, FLUID MEASUREMENT DEVICE, AND MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

Abstract

A measurement method for visualizing the flow of a fluid that includes: a preparation process where a photochromic compound, whose amount of absorption of light changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light, is dissolved in the fluid; a transformation-inducing irradiation process where the fluid is irradiated with transformation-inducing light that causes photochromism; and a post-transformation imaging process where an image of the fluid is taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light. During the post-transformation imaging process, a first image is generated by taking an image of the fluid by using first light in the first wavelength range in which the amount of absorption of light changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light.

Claims

1. A fluid measurement method comprising: a preparation process of dissolving in a fluid a photochromic compound having an amount of absorption of light that changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light; a transformation-inducing irradiation process of irradiating the fluid with transformation-inducing light that causes photochromism; and a post-transformation imaging process of taking an image of the fluid after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light, wherein the post-transformation imaging process generates a first image by taking an image of the fluid by using first light in the first wavelength range in which an amount of absorption of light changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light.

2. The measurement method according to claim 1 further comprising an image processing process, wherein the image processing process comes after the post-transformation imaging process, wherein the post-transformation imaging process further generates a second image of the fluid that is taken at the same time as the first image is taken, the taking of the second image using second light in a second wavelength range in which the amount of absorption does not change or hardly changes, and wherein the image processing process generates a third image by using the first image and the second image.

3. The measurement method according to claim 2, wherein during the image processing process, the third image is generated by denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken in the post-transformation imaging process by I1.sub.1, denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken in the post-transformation imaging process by 12.sub.1, and calculating an absorbance A1 at each pixel using equation (I) described as A1=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1), and creating a two-dimensional pattern out of calculated results for the pixels.

4. The measurement method according to claim 3 further comprising a pre-transformation imaging process in which a first image and a second image of the fluid prior to irradiation by the transformation-inducing light are taken, wherein the pre-transformation imaging process comes before the transformation-inducing irradiation process, and wherein during the image processing process, the third image is generated by denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken in the pre-transformation imaging process by I1.sub.0, denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken in the pre-transformation imaging process by I2.sub.0, calculating an absorbance A at each pixel using equation (2) described as A=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG (I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)], and creating a two-dimensional pattern out of calculated results for the pixels.

5. The measurement method according to claim 1 further comprising a fluid-thickness calculation process, wherein the fluid-thickness calculation process comes after the post-transformation imaging process, wherein the post-transformation imaging process further generates a second image of the fluid that is taken at the same time as the first image is taken, the taking of the second image using second light in a second wavelength range in which the amount of absorption does not change or hardly changes, and wherein the fluid-thickness calculation process calculates a thickness of the fluid by using the first image and the second image.

6. The measurement method according to claim 5, wherein during the fluid-thickness calculation process, a fluid thickness L is obtained by denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken in the post-transformation imaging process by I1.sub.1, denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken in the post-transformation imaging process by I2.sub.1, denoting an absorption coefficient of the fluid after the photochromic compound is dissolved by , calculating an absorbance A1 at a pixel of an area irradiated with transformation-inducing light using equation (1) described as A1=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1), and calculating the fluid thickness L using equation (3) described as L=A1/.

7. The measurement method according to claim 6 further comprising a pre-transformation imaging process in which a first image and a second image of the fluid prior to irradiation by the transformation-inducing light are taken, wherein the pre-transformation imaging process comes before the transformation-inducing irradiation process, wherein during the fluid-thickness calculation process, a fluid thickness L is obtained by denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken in the pre-transformation imaging process by I1.sub.0, denoting a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken in the pre-transformation imaging process by I2.sub.0, calculating an absorbance A at a pixel of an area irradiated with transformation-inducing light using equation (2) described as A=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG (I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)], and calculating the fluid thickness L using equation (4) described as L=A/.

8. A measurement device for visualizing a flow of a fluid in which a photochromic compound is dissolved, the photochromic compound having an amount of absorption of light in a specific wavelength range that changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light that causes photochromism, the measurement device comprising: first image storage configured to store a first image taken of the fluid by using first light in a first wavelength range in which the amount of absorption changes; second image storage configured to store a second image of the fluid that is taken at the same time as the first image is taken, the taking of the second image using second light in a second wavelength range in which the amount of absorption does not change or hardly changes; and an image processor configured to generate a third image on which the flow of the fluid is visualized by using the first image and the second image, wherein the image processor generates a third image by using the first image and the second image that are taken after the fluid is irradiated with the transformation-inducing light.

9. The measurement device according to claim 8, wherein the image processor generates the third image by denoting by I1.sub.1 a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, denoting by I2.sub.1 a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, calculating an absorbance A1 at each pixel using equation (I) described as A1=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1), and creating a two-dimensional pattern out of calculated results for the pixels.

10. The measurement device according to claim 9, wherein the image processor generates the third image by denoting by I1.sub.0, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, denoting by I2.sub.0, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, calculating an absorbance A at each pixel using equation (2) described as A=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG (I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)], and creating a two-dimensional pattern out of calculated results for the pixels.

11. A measurement device for measuring a thickness of a fluid in which a photochromic compound is dissolved, the photochromic compound having an amount of absorption of light in a specific wavelength range that changes upon irradiation with transformation-inducing light that causes photochromism, the measurement device comprising: first image storage configured to store a first image taken of the fluid using first light in a first wavelength range in which the amount of absorption changes; second image storage configured to store a second image of the fluid that is taken at the same time as the first image is taken, the taking of the second image using second light in a second wavelength range in which the amount of absorption does not change or hardly changes; and a fluid thickness calculator configured to calculate a thickness of the fluid by using the first image and the second image, wherein the fluid thickness calculator calculates a thickness of the fluid by using the first image and the second image that are taken after the fluid is irradiated with the transformation-inducing light.

12. The measurement device according to claim 11, wherein the fluid thickness calculator gives a fluid thickness L by denoting by I1.sub.1, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, denoting by I2.sub.1, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light, denoting an absorption coefficient of the fluid after the photochromic compound is dissolved by , calculating an absorbance A1 at a pixel of an area irradiated by transformation-inducing light using equation (1) described as A1=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1), and calculating the fluid thickness L using equation (3) described as L=A1/.

13. The measurement device according to claim 12, wherein the fluid thickness calculator gives a fluid thickness L by denoting by I1.sub.0, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light, denoting by I2.sub.0, a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light, calculating an absorbance A at a pixel of an area irradiated by transformation-inducing light using equation (2) described as A=LOG (I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG (I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)], and calculating the fluid thickness L using equation (4) described as L=A/.

14. A measurement system comprising: a measurement device according to claim 8; a lighting configured to irradiate the fluid with illumination light which includes the first light and the second light; a separator unit configured to separate the illumination light into the first light in the first wavelength range and the second light in the second wavelength range after the illumination light has been transmitted through the fluid; a first imaging unit configured to capture the first light separated by the separator unit and generates the first image; and a second imaging unit configured to capture the second light separated by the separator unit and generates the second image, wherein the lighting emits the illumination light as a light pulse, with the timing of emission of the illumination light matching the timing of the first imaging unit and the second imaging unit taking images.

15. A measurement system according to claim 14 further comprising a transformation-inducing light source that emits the transformation-inducing light, wherein the transformation-inducing light source includes a function for adjusting the size of light to an arbitrary size to determine an area of visualization of the flow of the fluid and a function for irradiating an arbitrary location of the fluid with the transformation-inducing light, wherein the transformation-inducing light source emits the transformation-inducing light of the arbitrary size as a light pulse so that the fluid is irradiated at the arbitrary location where the flow of the fluid is to be visualized.

16. A measurement system according to claim 15 further comprising a controller, wherein when there is a drive part that reciprocates or rotates in the fluid, the controller receives position information of the drive part and controls the timing with which the lighting or the transformation-inducing light source irradiates the fluid, and wherein the controller emits the transformation-inducing light as a light pulse when the drive part is at a particular position and takes an image when the drive part is at a particular position for imaging.

17. A measurement system according to claim 14, wherein the lighting selectively generates the first light and the second light as separate light.

18. A measurement system comprising: a measurement device according to claim 11; a lighting configured to irradiate the fluid with illumination light which includes the first light and the second light; a separator unit configured to separate the illumination light into the first light in the first wavelength range and the second light in the second wavelength range after the illumination light has been transmitted through the fluid; a first imaging unit configured to capture the first light separated by the separator unit and generates the first image; a second imaging unit configured to capture the second light separated by the separator unit and generates the second image; and a transformation-inducing light source configured to emit the transformation-inducing light, wherein the transformation-inducing light source completely transforms a photochromic compound in the direction of thickness of the fluid.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a fluid flow visualization system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 2 is a diagram explaining the properties of a separator unit provided in the fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an overall operation of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a reference-image capturing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a photochromism induction process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a comparison-image capturing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an image processing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an overall operation of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a reference-image capturing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a photochromism induction process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a comparison-image capturing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an image processing process of a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 13 shows third images generated by using a fluid flow visualization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The third images are generated from images taken of a lubricating oil over time while a piston remains stationary. FIG. 13's (a) shows a third image immediately after (i.e., 0 seconds) a photochromic compound is irradiated with light that induces photochromism; FIG. 13's (b) shows a third image 10 seconds after the irradiation; FIG. 13's (c) shows a third image 20 seconds after the irradiation; FIG. 13's (d) shows a third image 30 seconds after the irradiation.

[0070] FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of a fluid flow visualization system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 15 shows an experimental setup for investigating a relationship between absorbance and fluid thickness.

[0072] FIG. 16 is a graph showing the relationship between absorbance and fluid thickness.

[0073] FIG. 17 shows a thickness distribution of a test solution calculated from an absorption coefficient obtained during the experiment.

[0074] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an overall operation of a fluid thickness measuring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a photochromism induction process of a fluid thickness measuring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a fluid-thickness calculation process of a fluid thickness measuring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Descriptions of embodiments of the present invention will be given in detail with reference to drawings.

[0078] Each figure is a schematic representation to enable sufficient understanding of the present invention. The present invention is therefore not limited to the examples shown in the figures. Furthermore, in the referenced drawings, the illustrated dimensions of members that make up the present invention may be exaggerated to make an explanation clear. Note that common or similar components used in the figures are denoted by the same reference signs, and repeat descriptions of such components are avoided.

[0079] In a first embodiment, a description will be given for a case where the flow of a fluid being measured over time is visualized. In a second embodiment, a description will be given for a case where the thickness of a fluid being measured is obtained at a given point in time. Note that the visualization of fluid flow and the measurement of fluid thickness are examples of the measurement of a fluid.

First Embodiment

Configuration of Fluid Flow Visualization System

[0080] A fluid flow visualization system (hereinafter a visualization system) is a system for visualizing the flow of a fluid to be measured. The visualization system visualizes, for example, the lubrication conditions of a lubricant used with a moving body such as a piston, cylinder, sliding bearing, and other sliding surfaces. Note that the visualization system is one example of a fluid measurement system.

[0081] The present embodiment will be described for a case where the flow of a fluid 23 that is interposed between a piston 21 and cylinder 22 is visualized as shown in FIG. 1.

[0082] The piston 21 is a drive part that reciprocates inside the cylinder 22 in an u direction. The fluid 23 flows over time, and the state of the fluid 23 (such as thickness) changes, especially when the piston 21 is driven inside the cylinder 22. An opening 22a is formed on the cylinder 22 and installed with a fitting member 22b made from a transparent material such as glass. This way, the fluid 23 can be observed from outside the cylinder 22 through the opening 22a. The area of the fluid 23 that can be observed through the opening 22a is referred to as the observation part hereinafter.

[0083] A photochromic compound (not shown in the figure) is dissolved in the fluid 23. The photochromic compound is, say, 1,3,3-Trimethylindolino-6-nitrobenzopyrylospiran, a spiropyran-based compound. Through absorbing light in a specific wavelength range, this spiropyran-based compound transforms from having a colorless spiropyran structure to a colored merocyanine structure. The fluid 23 may be of any kind, say oil, as long as a photochromic compound can be dissolved. No restriction applies to the viscosity of the fluid 23, and the fluid 23 may be a highly viscous substance such as a gelatinous substance.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 1, a visualization system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a position transmitter 2, a transformation-inducing light source 3, a mirror 4, an illumination light source 5, a separator unit 6, a pair of CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2, and a fluid flow visualization device 10 (hereinafter a visualization device 10). Note that although the visualization system here is configured with CCD cameras, the cameras may be of any kind as long as images of light can be captured in the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range, such as cameras that use CMOS or a camera tube.

[0085] The separator unit 6 includes an image-splitting dichroic mirror (DM) 7, and a pair of bandpass filters (BPFs) 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2.

[0086] The visualization device 10 includes a pair of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2, an image processor 12, a display 15, and a controller 16. The image processor 12 includes an absorbance computation part 13 and a 2-D pattern forming part 14. Note that the visualization device 10 is one example of a fluid measurement device.

[0087] The position transmitter 2 transmits position information of the piston 21, the drive part, to the visualization device 10. Note that when the lubrication conditions of the fluid 23 is measured over time while the piston 21 is stationary, the visualization system 1 does not have to include the position transmitter 2.

[0088] The position transmitter 2 acquires, for example, the rotational position of a crank (not shown in figure) that is connected to the piston 21 by using an encoder that is attached to the crank, and sends a signal to the visualization device 10 at a pre-determined rotational position. It is also possible for a position transmitter 2 to output a signal based on the control signal to an engine, to output a signal by detecting the position of the piston 21 directly, or to deliver a signal by predicting the position of the piston 21 from elapsed time. When observing the lubrication conditions of a bearing that supports a shaft that rotates at high speed, a signal on the rotational angle of the shaft is output to the visualization device 10.

[0089] The transformation-inducing light source 3 is a device for irradiating, via the opening 22a, a photochromic compound that is contained in the fluid 23 with transformation-inducing light 31, which causes the photochromic compound to undergo photochromism. The wavelength of the transformation-inducing light 31 may be selected according to the type of photochromic compound used, and, for example, ultraviolet light may be used. The transformation-inducing light source 3 is, for example, a nitrogen laser (with a wavelength of 337 nm) or a YAG laser (with a wavelength of 1064 nm), and when ultraviolet light is to be emitted, a YAG laser in the third or fourth harmonic is used. To observe the lubrication conditions of the fluid 23 when the piston 21 is in reciprocating motion, the transformation-inducing light 31 may be emitted as a pulse. The timing of emission of the pulses may be matched to the reciprocating motion of the piston 21 so that a particular location of the piston 21 is irradiated with the transformation-inducing light 31. As a way of adjusting the region of a fluid to be measured, a laser may be used as a transformation-inducing light source 3, or a lens may be used to focus the transformation-inducing light 31 so as to narrow the irradiated region. The lens may also be used to widen the focus so that the region that is irradiated by the transformation-inducing light 31 is widened. Note that the methods for adjusting the region to be measured are not limited to the above, and other methods may be used as long as the region irradiated by the transformation-inducing light 31 can be adjusted.

[0090] The molecular structure of the photochromic compound acting as a dye that is dissolved in the fluid 23 is transformed by the transformation-inducing light 31, resulting in the change in the amount of absorption of light in a specific wavelength range. Hereinafter, the wavelength range in which the amount of absorption of light changes when the photochromic compound is irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31 will be called the first wavelength range, and the wavelength range in which the amount of absorption of light does not change or hardly changes when the photochromic compound is irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31 will be called the second wavelength range. The first wavelength range is, for example, a wavelength range corresponding to green light. The second wavelength range is, for example, a wavelength range corresponding to red light.

[0091] Note that the transformation of the molecular structure of the dye by photochromism is reversible. The molecular structure will transform back to the original structure through absorbing heat or light. For this reason, when taking an image of the fluid 23 after molecular structure transformation, it is best to keep the amount of heat or light given to the photochromic compound to a minimum. Details of imaging of the fluid 23 is given later.

[0092] The mirror 4 is a device for reflecting transformation-inducing light 31. This mirror 4 is arranged so that the transformation-inducing light 31 is directed towards a specific irradiation location.

[0093] The illumination light source 5 is a device for irradiating the fluid 23 via the opening 22a with illumination light 32 that is necessary for taking an image. The illumination light 32 includes light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range. Hereinafter, illumination light 32 in the first wavelength range is called the first illumination light, and illumination light 32 in the second wavelength range is called the second illumination light. The illumination light source 5 is, for example, a white light emitting diode (LED).

[0094] The illumination light source 5 emits illumination light 32 as a light pulse so that the timing of emission coincides with the taking of an image of the fluid 23. In order to minimize the reverse transformation of the molecular structure of the transformed photochromic compound, it is best to keep the duration of emission of the illumination light 32 as short as possible (for example, a few milliseconds) within the allowable range of time needed to capture an image of the fluid 23. In terms of camera operation principle, the emission duration is best made shorter than the time during which the shutters of CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2 are open when the charge-coupled devices (CCDs; image sensors) are exposed (hereinafter the shutter period). Exposure of the transformed photochromic compound to the illumination light 32 beyond the shutter period leads to the reduction of transformation of the transformed photochromic compound and is therefore undesirable.

[0095] Note that the shape of the illumination light source 5 is not restricted by the present invention. The illumination light source 5 may, for example, be cylindrical or rectangular in shape. Also, the illumination light source 5 may be configured from separate devices that selectively emit the first illumination light and the second illumination light.

[0096] The separator unit 6 is a device for separating reflected light 33 into the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range, where the reflected light 33 is illumination light 32 that is reflected from the fluid 23 (more precisely, light that passes through the fluid 23 and is reflected from the piston 21). Although an example is shown here where the separator unit 6 includes an image splitting dichroic mirror 7 and bandpass filters 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2, a different method of separation may be employed as long as the reflected light 33 can be separated into the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range. Although the separator unit 6 here is shown as a single device that includes an image splitting dichroic mirror (DM) 7 and bandpass filters (BPFs) 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2, the separator unit 6 may be configured from an image splitting dichroic mirror 7 and bandpass filters 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2 that are separate devices. Note that the separator unit 6 is required to retain the image shape captured by the reflected light 33 during the separation process.

[0097] The image-splitting dichroic mirror 7 has a reflection wavelength band and a transmission wavelength band. Of the reflected light 33, the image-splitting dichroic mirror 7 reflects light 34.sub.1 in the reflection wavelength band and transmits light 34.sub.2 in the transmission wavelength band. For example, the first wavelength range fits within the reflection wavelength band and the second wavelength range fits within the transmission wavelength band.

[0098] The reflection and transmission properties of the image-splitting dichroic mirror 7 will be explained with reference to FIG. 2. The curved line 41 of FIG. 2 shows the absorbance properties of a transformed photochromic compound, and depicts the relationship between the wavelength of light (nm) and the absorbance of the photochromic compound dissolved in the fluid 23 (a logarithm of the ratio of light intensity before and after coloring).

[0099] The amount of absorption of light at around a wavelength of 520 nm changes most when the photochromic compound depicted by the curved line 41 is irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31. The change in the amount of absorption of light of a given wavelength becomes smaller the shorter or longer the wavelength becomes compared to the wavelength of around 520 nm. The amount of absorption of light of a given wavelength changes little for wavelengths exceeding around 700 nm.

[0100] The curved line 42 of FIG. 2 shows the reflection and transmission properties of the image-splitting dichroic mirror 7, and depicts the relationship between the wavelength of light (nm) and transmission (%) (Semrock, Inc., product code: FF560-FDi01-25x36). The image-splitting dichroic mirror 7 depicted in FIG. 2 reflects light with a wavelength of less than 570 nm and transmits light with a wavelength of 570 nm or more. Thus, the first wavelength range is included in the reflection wavelength band (wavelengths of less than 570 tan), and the second wavelength range is included in the transmission wavelength band (wavelengths of 570 nm or more). Therefore, the image-splitting dichroic mirror 7 separates light 34.sub.1 that includes the first wavelength range and light 34.sub.1 that includes the second wavelength range by reflecting light 34.sub.1 and transmitting light 34.sub.2.

[0101] The bandpass filters 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2 are devices that each pass light in a specific wavelength range. The transmission properties of the bandpass filters 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2 will be explained with reference to FIG. 2. The curved line 43 of FIG. 2 shows the transmission property of the bandpass filter 8.sub.1 and depicts the relationship between the wavelength of light (nm) and transmission (%) (Sermrock, Inc., product code: FF01-512/25-25). The bandpass filter 8.sub.1 depicted in FIG. 2 passes light with wavelengths in the range of around 490-540 nm and blocks light with wavelengths outside that range. The first wavelength range is included in the range of wavelengths that the bandpass filter 8.sub.1 passes. Hereinafter, light that has passed the bandpass filter 8.sub.1 is referred to as the first reflected light 35.sub.1.

[0102] The curved line 44 of FIG. 2 shows the transmission property of the bandpass filter 8.sub.2, and depicts the relationship between the wavelength of light (nm) and transmission (%) (Semrock, Inc., product code: FF01-630/92-25). The bandpass filter 8.sub.2 depicted in FIG. 2 allows light with wavelengths in the range of around 580-680 nm to pass through and blocks light with wavelengths outside that range. The second wavelength range is included in the range of wavelengths that the bandpass filter 8.sub.2 passes. Hereinafter, light that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.2 is referred to as the second reflected light 35.sub.2.

[0103] The CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2 are devices for generating images of a fluid 23.

[0104] The CCD camera 9.sub.1 generates a first image B of the fluid 23 with the first reflected light 35.sub.1 (for example, light with wavelengths of around 490-540 nm) that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.1. The first image B here includes both an image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 and an image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Hereinafter, the first image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the first image B.sub.10, and the first image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the first image B.sub.11.

[0105] The CCD camera 92 generates a second image C of the fluid 23 with the second reflected light 35.sub.2 (for example, light with wavelengths of around 580-680 nm) that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.2. The second image C here includes both an image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 and an image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Hereinafter, the second image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the second image C.sub.10, and the second image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the second image C.sub.11.

[0106] The visualization device 10 is a device that visualizes the flow of the fluid 23 from a first image B and a second image C generated by the CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2.

[0107] The image storage (IM) 11.sub.1 and the image storage (IM) 11.sub.2 are devices that store images generated by the CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2. The first image B that is generated by the CCD camera 9.sub.1 is stored in the image storage 11.sub.1, and the second image C that is generated by the CCD camera 9.sub.2 is stored in the image storage 11.sub.2. The image storage 11.sub.1 and the image storage 11.sub.2 are examples of the first image storage and the second image storage. Note that the image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 may be a single device, in which case the first image B and the second image C are stored in image storage 11.

[0108] Because the first reflected light 35.sub.1 that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.1 is in the first wavelength range, the first images B taken over time show the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at each point in time. When there is a change in the state of the fluid 23 (for examples, oil film thickness), the effects of the change in the state of the fluid is reflected in the distributions of the transformed photochromic compound shown in the first images B. On the other hand, because the second reflected light 35.sub.2 that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.2 is in the second wavelength range, the second images C taken over time show the state of the fluid 23 at each point in time.

[0109] The image processor 12 acquires a first image B and a second image C from the image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2, carries out image processing using the acquired first image B and the second image C, and generates a new, third image D. The image processor 12 includes an absorbance computation part 13 and a 2-D pattern forming part 14. The image processor 12 is realized, for example, through program execution in a CPU (central processing unit), or with a dedicated circuit.

[0110] To calculate absorbance, the absorbance computation part 13 uses a first image B.sub.10 and a second image C.sub.10, taken of the fluid 23 before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11, taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Absorbance is obtained by calculating the logarithms of the ratios of these images then calculating the difference between the two values.

[0111] For example, let the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image B.sub.10 taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 11.sub.0, and the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image C.sub.10 taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 12.sub.0. Similarly, let the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image B.sub.11 taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 11.sub.1 and the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image C.sub.13 taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 12.sub.1. In this case, the absorbance computation part 13 calculates the absorbance A at each pixel using equation (2) shown below. Note that LOG indicates a common logarithm.

A=LOG(I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG(I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)](2)

A=LOG [(I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)/(I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)](2)

[0112] The two dimensional (2-D) pattern forming part 14 generates a third image D based on the absorbance A that is calculated by the absorbance computation part 13. The 2-D pattern forming part 14 generates the third image D, for example, by creating a two-dimensional pattern out of the absorbance calculated tin the individual pixels using equation (2) given above.

[0113] Because of this, the third image D shows the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound with reduced effects of the change to the fluid's state. In this way, it is possible for the visualization device 10 to clearly visualize fluid flow.

[0114] The display 15 is, for example, a display device, and displays the third image D generated by the 2-D pattern forming part 14.

[0115] The controller 16 controls the devices that the visualization system 1 includes (a position transmitter 2, a transformation-inducing light source 3, an illumination light source 5, CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2, an image processor 12, and so on). Details are given in the Operation of Fluid Flow Visualization System section. The controller 16 is, for example, composed of a CPU (central processing unit), ROM (read-only memory), and RAM (random-access memory). Note that a device other than the visualization device 10 may include the controller 16.

[0116] Operation of Fluid Flow Visualization System

[0117] Next, the operation of the fluid flow visualization system 1 will be described. The visualization system 1 of the present embodiment can visualize the flow of a fluid 23 by taking images of the fluid 23 through the opening 22a when piston 21, a drive part, is either stationary or in motion. By taking images of the fluid 23 over time while piston 21, the drive part, is stationary, lubrication conditions of the fluid 23 over time is observed. On the other hand, by taking images of the fluid 23 over time while piston 21, the drive part, is in motion, lubrication conditions of the fluid 23 due to the reciprocating motion of the piston 21 is observed. Note that the operation of the visualization system 1 is one example of a fluid measurement method.

[0118] Operation when the Piston (the Drive Part) is Stationary

[0119] The operation when piston 21, the drive pan, is stationary will be described with reference to FIGS. 3-7 (also FIG. 1 as needed). FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the overall operation of the fluid flow visualization system 1, and FIGS. 4-7 are flowcharts explaining the individual processes that are involved.

[0120] First, the photochromic compound is dissolved in a fluid 23 to be visualized (step S1), and a measurement environment is established fit the fluid flow visualization system 1 (step S2). This completes that advance preparation. Steps S1 and S2 correspond to the preparation process of the claims.

[0121] Next, a reference-image capturing process is carried out (step S3). Here, a reference image refers to an image that is taken before a photochromic compound undergoes photochromism, and at least one first image B.sub.10 and one second image C.sub.10 are taken. The first image B.sub.10 and the second image C.sub.10 that serve as reference images are taken at the same time. Step S3 corresponds to the pre-transformation imaging step of the claims.

[0122] Next, a photochromism induction process is carried out (step S4). In the photochromism induction process, the fluid 23 is irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31 such as ultraviolet light causing the photochromic compound to undergo transformation. In this process, the region of fluid visualization is determined. Step S4 corresponds to the transformation-inducing irradiation process of the claims.

[0123] Next, a comparison-image capturing process is carried out (step S5). A comparison image is an image taken after the photochromic compound undergoes photochromism, and at least one first image B and one second image C.sub.11 are taken. The first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 that serve as comparison images are taken at the same time. Step S5 corresponds to the post-transformation imaging process of the claims.

[0124] Next, an image processing process is carried out (step S6). In the image processing process, a third image D is generated by using a first image B.sub.10 and a second image C.sub.10 taken in the reference-image capturing process and a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11 taken in the comparison-image capturing process. The third image D shows the change in distribution of the transformed photochromic compound not only with reduced effects of discoloration due to dirt and scratches on the device but with various noises, including the effects of change in the fluid's state such as fluid surface movement and air bubble distribution, simultaneously reduced. The flow of the fluid 23 is then visualized by displaying the third image D on the display 15 (step S7).

[0125] The reference-image capturing process (step S3) will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0126] First, the illumination light source 5 is used to expose the entire observed part with illumination light 32 that includes two types of light in different wavelength ranges (step S11). The two wavelength ranges are (i) a first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs, and (ii) a second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs. In this way, the first illumination light and the second illumination light simultaneously irradiate the observed part.

[0127] The separator unit 6 separates reflected light 33 that is reflected from the entire observed part into two wavelength ranges: (i) the first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) the second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step S12).

[0128] A first image B.sub.10 that serves as a reference image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using first reflected light 35.sub.1 in the separated (i) first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs (step S13).

[0129] A second image C.sub.10 that serves as a reference image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using second reflected light 35.sub.2 in the separated (ii) second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step S14).

[0130] Next, the visualization device 10 stores the first image B.sub.10 and the second image C.sub.10 in storage composed of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 (step S15). Whether to finish the measurement is then determined (step S16). The current process is terminated when the measurement is complete. If, on the other hand, the first image B.sub.10 and the second image C.sub.10 are to be acquired further, the procedure of steps S11-S15 is repeated. In this way, multiple first images B.sub.10 and multiple second images C.sub.10 are acquired. Using the average of the multiple images as a reference image makes it possible to visualize the fluid 23 more clearly.

[0131] The photochromism induction process (step S4) will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0132] In this process, the transformation-inducing light source 3 emits transformation-inducing light 31, which is used to transform the photochromic compound, to fall on a location to be measured within the observed part (step S21).

[0133] As a result, the dissolved photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at the location to be measured is transformed to absorb light in a specific wavelength range (step S22).

[0134] The comparison-image capturing process (step S5) will be described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0135] First, the illumination light source 5 is used to irradiate the entire observed part with illumination light 32 that includes two types of light in different wavelength ranges (step S31). The two wavelength ranges are (i) a first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) a second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs. In this way, the first illumination light and the second illumination light simultaneously irradiate the observed part.

[0136] The separator unit 6 separates reflected light 33 that is reflected from the entire observed part into two wavelength ranges: (i) the first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) the second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step S32).

[0137] A first image B.sub.11 that serves as a comparison image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using first reflected light 35.sub.1 in the separated (i) first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs (step S33).

[0138] A second image C.sub.11 that serves as a comparison image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using second reflected light 35.sub.2 in the separated (ii) second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step S34).

[0139] Next, the visualization device 10 stores the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.111 in storage composed of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 (step S35). Whether to finish the measurement is then determined (step S36). The current process is terminated when the measurement is complete. If, on the other hand, the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 are to be acquired further, the procedure of steps S31-S35 is repeated over time. In this way, time series of first images B.sub.11 and second images C.sub.11 are acquired.

[0140] The image processing process (step S6) will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0141] In this process, a third image D is obtained by calculating the absorbance A fir each pixel by using the luminance values of the pixels at the same position in the reference images (the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10) and the comparison images (the first image B.sub.11 and second image C.sub.11) (step S41). The generated third image D is then stored in the storage (not shown in figure) of the image processor 12 (step S42).

[0142] Operation when the Piston (the Drive Part) is in Reciprocating Motion

[0143] The operation when piston 21, the drive part, is in reciprocating motion is described with reference to FIGS. 8-12 (also FIG. 1 as needed). FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the overall operation of the fluid flow visualization system 1, and FIGS. 9-12 are flowcharts explaining the individual processes that are involved.

[0144] The overall operation when piston 21, the drive part, is in reciprocating motion includes steps T1-T7. Steps T1, T2, and T7 are the same as steps S1, S2, and S7 (see FIG. 3), which are steps for when piston 21, the drive part, is stationary. Given below are descriptions of processes that differ in their procedures, namely the reference-image capturing process (step T3), the photochromism induction process (step T4), the comparison-image capturing process (step T5), and the image processing process (step T6). Note that steps T1 and T2 correspond to the preparation process of the claims, step T3 to the pre-transformation imaging process, step T4 to the transformation-inducing irradiation process, and step T5 to the post-transformation imaging process.

[0145] The reference-image capturing process (step T3) will be described with reference to FIG. 9.

[0146] First, the controller 16 of the visualization device 10 transmits a signal fix the illumination light source 5 to emit light on the basis of a unit of motion of a drive part (piston 21 in the current embodiment) of a device to be measured set in advance (step T11). Upon receiving the signal, the illumination light source 5 irradiates the entire observed part by emitting illumination light 32 that includes two types of light in different wavelength ranges (step T12). The two wavelength ranges are (i) a first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) a second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs. In this way, piston 21 that is at an image taking position is irradiated simultaneously with the first illumination light and the second illumination light.

[0147] Next, the separator unit 6 separates reflected light 33 that is reflected from the entire observed part into two wavelength ranges: (i) the first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) the second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step T13).

[0148] A first image B.sub.10 that serves as a reference image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using first reflected light 35.sub.1 in the separated (i) first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs (step T14).

[0149] A second image C.sub.10 that serves as a reference image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using second reflected light 335 in the separated (ii) second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step T15).

[0150] Next, the visualization device 10 stores the first image B.sub.10 and the second image B.sub.20 in association with information on the position of the drive part of the device in storage composed of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 (step T16). Whether to finish the measurement is then determined (step T17). The current process is terminated when the measurement is complete. If, on the other hand, the first image B.sub.10 and the second image C.sub.10 are to be acquired further, the procedure of steps T11-T16 is repeated. In this way, the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10 for each position of the drive part are acquired.

[0151] Next, the photochromism induction process (step T4) will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0152] First, position information of the drive part (piston 21 in the current embodiment) of a device for which measurement is taken is monitored (step T21), and whether the drive part is at a specific position is determined (step T22). When the drive part is at a specific position, the process proceeds to step T23.

[0153] Next, the transformation-inducing light source 3 emits transformation-inducing light 31, which is used to transform the photochromic compound, to fail on a location to be measured within the observed pan (step T23).

[0154] As a result, the dissolved photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at the location to be measured is transformed to absorb light in a specific wavelength range (step T24).

[0155] The comparison-image capturing process (step T5) will be described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0156] First, the controller 16 of the visualization device 10 transmits a signal for the illumination light source 5 to emit light on the basis of a unit of motion of a drive part (piston 21 in the current embodiment) of a device to be measured set in advance (step T31). Upon receiving the signal, the illumination light source 5 irradiates the entire observed part with illumination light 32 that includes two types of light in different wavelength ranges (step T32). The two wavelength ranges are (i) a first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) a second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs. In this way, piston 21 that is at an image taking position is irradiated simultaneously with the first illumination light and the second illumination light.

[0157] Next, the separator unit 6 separates reflected light 33 that is reflected from the entire observed part into two wavelength ranges: (i) the first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs and (ii) the second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step T33).

[0158] A first image B.sub.11 that serves as a comparison image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using first reflected light 35.sub.1 in the separated (i) first wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound absorbs (step T34).

[0159] A second image C.sub.11 that serves as a comparison image is acquired by forming an image of the entire observed part by using second reflected light 35.sub.2 in the separated (ii) second wavelength range that the transformed photochromic compound does not absorb or hardly absorbs (step T35).

[0160] Next, the visualization device 10 stores the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 in association with information on the position and motion cycle of the drive pan of the device in storage composed of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 (step T36). Note that the set of information on the position and motion cycle is one example of time information. Whether to finish the measurement is then determined (step T37). The current process is terminated when the measurement is complete. If, on the other hand, the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 are to be acquired further, the procedure of steps T31-T36 is repeated over time. In this way, time series of first images B.sub.11 and second images C.sub.11 are acquired.

[0161] The image processing process (step T6) is described with reference to FIG. 12.

[0162] First, reference images (the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10) and comparison images (the first image B.sub.11 and second image C.sub.11) with the same information on the position of the drive part of the device are extracted from reference images (the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10) and comparison images (the first image B and second image C.sub.11) that are stored in storage (step T41).

[0163] Next, a third image D is acquired by calculating the absorbance A for each pixel by using the luminance values of pixels at the same position in the extracted reference images (the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10) and comparison images (the first image B.sub.11 and second image C.sub.11) (step T42). The generated third image D is then stored in storage (not shown in figure) of the image processor 12 (step T43).

[0164] As described above, the fluid flow visualization system 1 according to the present embodiment captures the first image B of the fluid 23 using the first wavelength range where the amount of absorption of light changes and the second image C of the fluid 23 using the wavelength range where the amount of absorption of light does not change or hardly changes.

[0165] Because the amount of absorption of light of the photochromic compound transformed by the transformation-inducing light 31 is changed in the first wavelength range, the first images B taken over time show the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound within the fluid at each point in time. When there is a change in the state of the fluid (such as oil film thickness), the distributions of the transformed photochromic compound that appear in the first images B will reflect the effects of the change in state of the fluid 23.

[0166] Because the amount of absorption of light of the photochromic compound transformed by the transformation-inducing light 31 is not changed or is hardly changed in the second wavelength range, the second images C taken over time show the state of the fluid 23 at each point in time.

[0167] The visualization system 1 generates a third image D by using a first image B.sub.10 and a second image C.sub.10, taken of the fluid 23 before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11, taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. The third image DI is calculated by taking the logarithms of the ratios of these images and calculating the difference between the two values.

[0168] There may be cases where there is a part (for example, an edge) where reflectivity differs for light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range, or cases where the distribution of light intensity differs for light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range due to, say, the use of two light sources (causing, for example, the upper pan of the first image to become bright and the lower part of the second image to become bright). Even in these cases, the first image B.sub.10 taken before irradiation with transformation-inducing light and the first image B.sub.11 taken after irradiation with transformation-inducing light, and the second image C.sub.10 taken before irradiation with transformation-inducing light and the second image C.sub.11 taken after irradiation with transformation-inducing light show the state of the fluid with light in the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range having substantially the same conditions.

[0169] For this reason, in the third image, not only is the effect of discoloration from dirt, scratches, and the like on a device reduced, but various noises caused by light such as the following are simultaneously reduced: noise arising from there being a part where reflectivity differs due to the difference in wavelengths of light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range, and noise arising from the difference in light intensity distributions of light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range. As a result, change in distribution of the colored, transformed photochromic compound appears more clearly. This makes it possible for the fluid flow visualization system 1 according to the present embodiment to clearly visualize the flow of a fluid 23, even in a measuring environment where the fluid is in a changeable state such as when the fluid is in a moving object or in a changing environment.

[0170] Note that in the conventional technique, white light was used to take images of a fluid. Images taken with white light reflect both the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound in a fluid at each point in time and the effects of the changes in the state of the fluid. Due to this, absorbance calculated from images taken with white light is not only affected by the change in the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound, but also by the changes in the state of the fluid. For this reason, the conventional technique found it hard to clearly visualize flow in a measuring environment where the fluid is in a changeable state such as when the fluid is in a moving object or in a changing environment.

[0171] Concrete examples of the third images D generated from a visualization system 1 according to the present embodiment are shown in FIG. 13. The third images D in FIG. 13 have been generated from images of the fluid 23 taken over time while the piston 21 of FIG. 1 was stationary.

[0172] The photochromic compound used was a spiropyran-based compound called 1,3,3-Trimethylindolino-6-nitrobenzopyrylospiran (Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., product code: T0366), and ester oil was used as the fluid 23.

[0173] Ultraviolet light was used as the transformation-inducing light 31 for inducing photochromism of the photochromic compound. A nitrogen laser (a wavelength of 337 nm) or a YAG laser (the third harmonic, 355 nm, of a 1064 nm wavelength) was used as a transformation-inducing light source 3.

[0174] FIG. 13's (a) shows the third image D immediately after the transformation-inducing light 31 was emitted (0 sec). FIG. 13's (b) shows the third image D 10 seconds after emission. FIG. 13's (c) shows the third image D 20 seconds after emission. FIG. 13's (d) shows the third image D 30 seconds after emission. FIG. 13 shows absorbance in terms of gradations of color, with higher absorbance shown in darker shades.

[0175] Third images D show the change in distribution of the transformed photochromic compound with reduced effects of changes to the state of the fluid. This is evident from the images of FIG. 13 that clearly show the part irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31 (the part with high absorbance) moving downwards over time.

Second Embodiment

Configuration of Fluid Thickness Measuring Set

[0176] A fluid thickness measuring system (hereinafter a thickness measuring system) is a system for measuring the thickness of a fluid for which measurement is taken. For example, the thickness measuring system measures the thickness of a lubricant (oil film thickness) that is used on a sliding surface of a moving object such as a piston, cylinder, and sliding bearing. Note that the thickness measuring system is one example of a fluid measurement system.

[0177] As shown in FIG. 14, a thickness measuring system 1x according to the present embodiment includes a position transmitter 2, a transformation-inducing light source 3, a mirror 4, an illumination light source 5, a separator unit 6, a pair of CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2, and a fluid thickness measuring device 10x (hereinafter a thickness measuring device 10x). Note that components that are the same as those in the visualization system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference symbols, and repeat descriptions of such components are avoided. Description will focus on the components having different functions. Note that a photochromic compound (not shown in figure) is dissolved in a fluid 23 as in the first embodiment.

[0178] The thickness measuring device 10x includes a pair of image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2, a fluid thickness calculator 12x, a display IS, and a controller 16. The fluid thickness calculator 12x includes an absorbance computation part 13 and a fluid thickness computation pan 14x. Note that the thickness measuring device 10x is one example of a fluid measurement system.

[0179] The CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2 are devices for generating images of a fluid 23.

[0180] The CCD camera 9.sub.1 generates a first image B of the fluid 23 with the first reflected light 35.sub.1 (for example, light with wavelengths of around 490-540 nm) that has passed the bandpass filter 8.sub.1. The first image B here includes both an image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 and an image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Hereinafter, the first image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the first image B.sub.10, and the first image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 may be referred to as the first image B.sub.11, in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0181] The CCD camera 9.sub.2 generates a second image C of the fluid 23 with the second reflected light 35.sub.2 (for example, light with wavelengths of around 580-680 nm) that has passed the bandpass filter 8.sub.2. The second image C here includes both an image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 and an image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Hereinafter, the second image taken before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 is referred to as the second image C.sub.10, and the second image taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31 is referred to as the second image C.sub.11, in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0182] The thickness measuring device 10x is a device that measures the thickness of a fluid 23 from a first image B and a second image C generated by the CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2.

[0183] The image storage (IM) 11.sub.1 and the image storage (IM) 11.sub.2 are devices that store images generated by the CCD cameras 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2. The first image B that is generated by the CCD camera 9.sub.1 is stored in the image storage 11.sub.1, and the second image C that is generated by the CCD camera 9.sub.2 is stored in the image storage 11.sub.2. The image storage 11.sub.1 and the image storage 11.sub.2 are examples of the first image storage and the second image storage. Note that the image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 can be a single device, in which case the first image B and the second image C are stored in image storage 11.

[0184] Because the first reflected light 35.sub.1 that has passed the bandpass filter 8.sub.1 is in the first wavelength range, the first image B taken at a particular point in time shows the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at the particular point in time. When there is a change in the state of the fluid 23 (for examples, oil film thickness), the effects of the change in the state of the fluid is reflected in the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound shown in the first image B. On the other hand, because the second reflected light 35.sub.2 that has passed through the bandpass filter 8.sub.2 is in the second wavelength range, the second image C taken at a particular point in time shows the state of the fluid 23 at the particular point in time.

[0185] The fluid thickness calculator 12x acquires the first image B and the second image C from the image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2, and calculates the thickness L (in the current embodiment, oil film thickness) of the fluid 23 using the acquired first image B and the second image C. The fluid thickness calculator 12x includes an absorbance computation part 13 and a fluid thickness computation part 14x. The fluid thickness calculator 12x is realized, for example, through program execution in a CPU (central processing unit), or with a dedicated circuit.

[0186] The function of the absorbance computation part 13 is the same as that in the first embodiment. To calculate absorbance, the absorbance computation part 13 uses the first image B.sub.10 and the second image C.sub.10, taken of the fluid 23 before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11, taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Absorbance is obtained by calculating the logarithms of the ratios of these images then calculating the difference between the two values.

[0187] For example, let the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image B.sub.10 taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 11.sub.0, and the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image C.sub.10 taken before irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as 12.sub.0. Similarly, let the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image B.sub.11 taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as I1.sub.1, and the light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image C.sub.11 taken after irradiation by the transformation-inducing light 31 be defined as I2.sub.1.

[0188] In this case, the absorbance computation part 13 calculates the absorbance A at each pixel using equation (2) shown below. Note that LOG indicates a common logarithm.

A=LOG(I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)[LOG(I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)](2)

A=LOG [(I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)/(I1.sub.0/I2.sub.0)](2)

[0189] The fluid thickness computation part 14x calculates the thickness L of the fluid 23 based on the absorbance A that is calculated by the absorbance computation part 13. Let, for example, be the absorption coefficient of the fluid 23 after the photochromic compound is dissolved.

[0190] In this case, the fluid thickness computation part 14 uses the following equation (4) to calculate the thickness L of the fluid 23 at a pixel that represents the part that is to be measured.

L=A/(4)

[0191] The display 15 displays the thickness L of the fluid 23 calculated by the fluid thickness computation part 14x. Note that the display 15 may, as in the first embodiment, display a third image D as well. In other words, the fluid thickness calculator 12x includes the function of a 2-D pattern forming part 14 as described in the first embodiment, and the display 15 may display a third image D generated by the 2-D pattern forming part 14 together with the thickness L of the fluid 23. Also, when the entire fluid 23 observed through the fitting member 22b is irradiated with transformation-inducing light 31, absorbances A that make up the third image D can be converted into thicknesses L of the fluid 23 with equation (4) so that a distribution of the thicknesses L of the fluid 23 may be displayed.

[0192] Equation (4) given above is explained in more detail.

[0193] Through conducting an experiment, the inventors of the present invention confirmed that absorbance is proportional to fluid thickness and that the relationship between absorbance and fluid thickness can be described with equation (4). The set-up used for the experiment is shown in FIG. 15. In order to investigate the relationship between film thickness and absorbance, a fluid of known thickness is required. As shown in FIG. 15, a metal ball 61 was made to come in contact with a flat glass plate 62 and the gap between them was filled with a test solution 63 in order to create known thickness. The thickness of the test solution 63 is the distance, m, between the metal ball 61 and the flat glass plate 62. If the diameter of the metal ball 61 is known, fluid thickness at a certain point away from the contact point 61a, the point of contact between the metal ball 61 and the flat glass plate 62, can be determined. The diameter of the metal ball 61 used in the experiments was 100 mm. Ester oil was used as the test solution 63. A spiropyran-based photochromic compound was dissolved in the test solution 63. The percent concentration of mass of the test solution 63 was 0.4 mass %. Note that the metal ball 61 was fixed to the base 64 to avoid movement.

[0194] Next, an ultraviolet LED lamp (not shown in figure) with a wavelength close to that of a nitrogen laser was used to sufficiently irradiate, in the direction shown by the symbol 65, the test solution 63 with light. The wavelength of light emitted by the ultraviolet LED lamp used in the experiment was 340 nm. In this way, the molecular structure of the photochromic compound acting as a dye that is dissolved in the test solution 63 is transformed, coloring the entire test solution 63. The test solution 63 need to be colored completely; if there are parts that remain untransformed, the relationship between fluid thickness and absorbance cannot be investigated. Then, in the same way as shown in FIG. 14, a separator unit 6 was used to take images from the direction indicated by symbol 65, and the absorbance A for each pixel was calculated using equation (2) given above. Experimental results are shown in FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 16, absorbance increases linearly with the increase in fluid thickness (described in the figure as oil film thickness). In this experiment, the absorption coefficient of the test solution 63 dissolved with a photochromic compound was found to be approximately 0.03 from the linear approximation line. Note that the absorption coefficient is determined by factors such as the kind of test solution 63 and photochromic compound used and percent concentration of mass. The distribution of thickness of the test solution 63 calculated by using the absorption coefficient that was derived from the experiment is shown in FIG. 17. The center of FIG. 17 corresponds to the contact point 61a between the metal ball 61 and the flat glass plate 62 (see FIG. 15). FIG. 17 shows clearly how the thickness of the test solution 63 increases with distance from the contact point 61a.

[0195] Operation of Fluid Thickness Measuring System

[0196] Next, operation of the fluid thickness measuring system 1x of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 18 (also FIG. 14 as needed). Here, the operation will be described for a case where the thickness of the fluid 23 is measured by taking an image of the fluid 23 through the opening 22a when piston 21, the drive part, is stationary. Note that the operation of the thickness measuring system 1x described here is one example of a fluid measurement method.

[0197] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the overall operation of the thickness measuring system 1x. As shown in FIG. 18, the overall operation of the thickness measuring system x includes steps S1 to S7x. Steps S1, S2, S3, and S5 are the same as the operational steps of the first embodiment when the piston 21 is stationary (see FIG. 3). Description will focus on processes that differ, namely steps S4x, S6x, and S7x. Note that steps S1 and S2 correspond to the preparation process of the claims, step S3 corresponds to the pre-transformation imaging process of the claims, step S4x corresponds to the transformation-inducing irradiation process of the claims, and step S5 corresponds to the post-transformation imaging process of the claims.

[0198] The photochromism induction process (step S4x) will be described with reference to FIG. 19.

[0199] In the process, the transformation-inducing light source 3 emits transformation-inducing light 31, which is used to transform the composition of a photochromic compound, to fall on a location to be measured within the observed part so that the location is sufficiently irradiated (step S21x). Sufficient irradiation means that the transformation-inducing light 31 reaches not only the surface of the fluid 23 but deep into the fluid 23 in the direction of thickness.

[0200] In this way, the dissolved photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at the location to be measured is completely transformed to absorb light in a specific wavelength range (step S22x). A complete transformation of a photochromic compound means that there are no untransformed portions remaining along the thickness direction of the fluid 23.

[0201] The fluid-thickness calculation process (step S6x) will be described with reference to FIG. 20.

[0202] In this process, absorbance A is calculated by using the luminance values of pixels at the same position in the reference images (the first image B.sub.10 and second image C.sub.10) and the comparison images (the first image B.sub.11 and second image C.sub.11) that are stored in storage (step S41).

[0203] Furthermore, in this process, the thickness L of the fluid 23 is calculated by using the absorption coefficient of the fluid 23 obtained in advance and the calculated absorbance A (step S42x). Next, the calculated thickness L of the fluid 23 is displayed on display 15 (step S7x of FIG. 18).

[0204] With the thickness measuring system 1x according to the second embodiment described above, substantially the same effects can be achieved as the second embodiment. In other words, due to reduced effects of various noises, fluid thickness L that is calculated by using the first image B and second image C becomes an accurate value.

[0205] Two embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and can be practiced otherwise within the scope of the appended claims.

[0206] In the first embodiment, the image processor 12 newly generates a third image D by acquiring a first image B and a second image C from the image storage 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 and carries out image processing by using the acquired first image B and second image C. More specifically, the image processor 12 uses a first image B.sub.10 and a second image C.sub.10, taken of the fluid 23 before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11, taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, to calculate the logarithms of the ratios of these images, then to calculate the difference between the two values to obtain absorbance, so that a two-dimensional pattern may be created out of the absorbance calculated for the individual pixels.

[0207] However, the image processor 12 may acquire from the image storage 11.sub.1 a first image B.sub.11 that was taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and display the first image B.sub.11 on display 15. The first images B.sub.11 clearly show the distribution of the transformed photochromic compound in the fluid 23 at each point in time, and although not as good as the third images D of the present embodiment, can clearly visualize a measured object even in a measurement environment where the measured object is in a moving body or in a changing environment.

[0208] Furthermore, the image processor 12 may acquire from the image storage 11.sub.1 a first image B.sub.11 that was taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and acquire from the image storage 11.sub.2 a second image C.sub.11 that was taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and generate a third image D from these images.

[0209] In this case, the image processor 12 calculates the absorbance A1 at each pixel using equation (1) shown below, and creates a two-dimensional pattern out of the calculated results for the pixels. Note that 11.sub.1 denotes a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a first image B.sub.11 taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and 12.sub.1 denotes a light intensity of a pixel that is included in a second image C.sub.11 taken after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31. Note also that LOG indicates a common logarithm.

A1=LOG(I1.sub.1/I2.sub.1)(1)

[0210] Since the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 taken at the same point in time show the fluid in the same state, with the same fluid surface movement, air bubble distribution, and so on, the third image D formed using the first image B.sub.11 and the second image C.sub.11 has various noises, including effects of change in the fluid's state such as fluid surface movement and air bubble distribution, reduced. As a result, the change in distribution of the colored, transformed photochromic compound appears more clearly.

[0211] Note that when there are parts where reflectivity differs due to the difference in wavelengths of light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range or when there are parts where there is a difference in light intensity distributions of light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range, these effects of light become reflected as various noises. For this reason, when various noises are generated from the effects of light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range, a third image D should be generated by using a first image B.sub.10 and a second image C.sub.10, taken of the fluid 23 before irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, and a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11, taken of the fluid 23 after irradiation with the transformation-inducing light 31, as shown in the present embodiment.

[0212] The same goes for the fluid thickness calculator 12x of the second embodiment. The fluid thickness calculator 12x may use equation (1) given above to calculate the absorbance A1 from a first image B.sub.11 and a second image C.sub.11, and use equation (3) given below to calculate the thickness L of the fluid 23. Note that is the absorbance coefficient of the fluid 23 after a photochromic compound has been dissolved.

L=A1/(3)

[0213] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the fluid 23 that can be observed via an opening 22a is a lubricating oil intended to make a drive part move smoothly, and is therefore a liquid film (i.e., a thin film). However, when a surface of a fluid 23 is to be visualized, the fluid 23 can be a thick liquid. In other words, the thickness of the fluid 23 to be observed is not restricted.

[0214] Yet further, in the first embodiment, the separator unit 6 separates reflected light 33, which is light that is reflected when illumination light 32 falls on a fluid 23 (more precisely, light that is reflected from piston 21 after passing through the fluid 23), into a first wavelength range and a second wavelength range. However, if the observed part is configured to transmit light (for example, a fluid 23 is between a pair of glasses), the separator unit 6 may separate transmitted light into the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range, where transmitted light is illumination light 32 that has passed through the observed part. In other words, the separator unit 6 can be a unit that separates transmitted light that the fluid 23 has transmitted.

[0215] Yet further, although in the present embodiments, the drive part is assumed to be a piston 21, the drive part can be of any kind with a reciprocating or rotational motion. In other words, the drive part can be any drive part that can associate the position of the drive part with time.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0216] 1 Visualization system (measurement system) [0217] 1x Thickness measuring system (measurement system) [0218] 2 Position transmitter [0219] 3 Transformation-inducing light source [0220] 4 Mirror [0221] 5 Illumination light source (lighting) [0222] 6 Separator unit [0223] 7 Image splitting dichroic mirror [0224] 8.sub.1, 8.sub.2 Bandpass filter [0225] 9.sub.1, 9.sub.2 CCD cameras (first imaging unit, second imaging unit) [0226] 10 Visualization device (measurement device) [0227] 10x Thickness measuring device (measurement device) [0228] 11.sub.1, 11.sub.2 image storage first image storage, second image storage) [0229] 12 Image processor [0230] 12x Fluid thickness calculator [0231] 13 Absorbance computation part [0232] 14 2-D pattern forming part [0233] 14x Fluid thickness computation part [0234] 15 Display [0235] 16 Controller [0236] 21 Piston (drive part) [0237] 22 Cylinder [0238] 23 Fluid