3-D Characterization, Optimization and Classification of Textured Surfaces

Surface texturing is a new technology aiming atreducing friction in operating machinery. Different surfacefeatures of varying shape and density are artificially introducedonto the existing surfaces. The methods currentlyavailable for the 3-D characterization and description ofthese surfaces are inadequate. Reliable surface descriptionis necessary for the optimization of those surfaces andquality control during production. In this paper possibleways of solving the problems associated with 3-Ddescription and optimization of textured surfaces are outlinedand discussed. The problems associated with thedevelopment of automated classification systems for texturedsurfaces are also presented.