Image quality measuring techniques are an essential part of the Polaroid Image Quality Methodology. For spatial image quality evaluation, a flatbed scanner-based measuring system has been developed. It comprises image quality metrics as well as diagnostic tools for print uniformity and registration. Visual models are used to calculate graininess and sharpness from the measured physical image quality functions. The results are the basis for estimating system image quality. Special attention has been given to the software architecture to create a de-centralized, efficient, low-cost measuring system that can easily be deployed on-site. Modular architecture facilitates the addition of new metrics and diagnostic tools. Fully automated to eliminate user error, the software also addresses workflow efficiency with features such as a user-friendly interface, batch processing of scans, and auto-archiving of processed image files. Detailed reports in Excel spreadsheets allow seamless integration into the evaluation process and database. The system has become instrumental in the research and development of both silver halide and digital imaging systems, and is the workhorse for product evaluation, benchmarking, and competitive product analysis. It has been successfully deployed within Polaroid and at its program partners to monitor quality at media coating and hardware assembly facilities.
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