Gradient transformation-weighted centroid: enhancing peak localization precision in the line chromatic confocal sensing system

Line chromatic confocal imaging (LCI) is an advanced system used for quick and accurate three-dimensional surface imaging without vertical mechanical scanning. It is extensively employed for fast industrial inspection. For high-speed and accurate measurement characteristics of the LCI technique, a rapid and accurate peak localization method is important. In this paper, we propose a gradient transform weight centroid method (GTWC) to improve the accuracy of peak positioning, without compromising high-speed characteristics. This method helps reconstruct the 3D profile at a higher axial resolution by reducing the full width at half maximum (FWHM) without altering the original structure of the LCI system. Both simulations and experiments show the feasibility and good performance of this method.