# Rhopoint Appearance Elements > Section of the Rhopoint Instruments Manual. This file bundles all 77 pages of this section as Markdown. # Software > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Appearance Elements Appearance Elements is PC software that runs Rhopoint instruments, guiding the user through measurement, storing results and showing images, maps and graphs. Different modules focus on tasks such as gloss, texture, and effect pigments and the software can also be used just to review and report existing data. [- Appearance Elements (AE) -](rhopoint-appearance-elements.md) ## Elements Hub Elements Hub is a connection hub that shares Rhopoint measurement data with other factory systems like SPC software, PLCs and robots. It lets automation cells and quality systems see live results and instrument status without complex custom integration. [Elements Hub (EH)](rhopoint-elements-hub.md) --- # AE Licence Manager > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. To install instrument and module licences, follow these steps: 1. Licences are emailed to you when your instrument is shipped from the Rhopoint factory. 2. Download the received licenses onto your PC. 3. Click the License Manager (1) button. ![image description](../_images/1769526360548-license-button.png) 4. Press the add licenses button (2) 5. Select the saved license(s) to install them. ![image description](../_images/1769526562514-license-wind.png) ## Additional Information **Replacement Licenses:** If you've lost your licenses, you can request them to be resent. Contact sales@rhopointinstruments.com and provide: - The serial number of your instrument **Demo Licenses:** Rhopoint offers a free 2-week trial for all instruments and modules. To obtain a demo license, contact sales@rhopointinstruments.com. **Additional Licenses:** To purchase licenses for a new module please contact your regional Rhopoint office, premium authorised distributor or send an email to sales@rhopointinstruments.com. --- # AE Software Update > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. When connected to the web, Rhopoint Appearance Elements will check for updates. ![image description](../_images/1769526229122-update.png) Updated software will include Security updates, bug fixes, an updated manual and feature enhancements. The availability of a new update is indicated as a orange alert (1) on the toolbar. To install new software click on the alert and follow on-screen instruction. Installing a new update will not affect saved data or remove licenses. Update notification [Connect an Instruments to AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-connect-an-instrument-to-ae.md) --- # Calibrating an Instrument in AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. To calibrate an instrument in AE click on the calibration icon (1) ![image description](../_images/1769777008352-2026-01-30_12-42.png) > [!info] The calibration buttons may be greyed out and unavailable if an instrument is not connected or a valid license file is not installed. --- # Changelog > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The changelog for Appearance Elements is publicly available online. You can view the full, up-to-date list of changes at:\ [https://changelog.rhopointservice.com/products/appearance-elements](https://changelog.rhopointservice.com/products/appearance-elements) All change-entries are listed there, typically ordered by date or release version, so you can easily follow along from earliest releases to the most recent. ## What is a Changelog A changelog is a curated, chronologically ordered list of all the notable changes made in a project. It records enhancements, bug fixes, new features, removals, and technical adjustments. The purpose is to provide users, developers, and stakeholders with a transparent view of how the product has evolved over time. ## Purpose of the Changelog The changelog serves several key purposes: - **Transparency**: Users can see what has changed, fixed, added or removed. - **Tracking Progress**: Helps maintainers and contributors track what work has been completed, what remains, and what has been delivered. - **User Communication**: Users can decide whether to upgrade or migrate based on what changes are relevant to them. - **Historical Reference**: Provides a record for debugging, auditing, or reviewing the evolution of the product. - **Planning**: Helps align future expectations by showing past patterns and the pace of development. --- # Connect an Instrument to AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Click the Device icon (1) to access the connection menu.![image description](../_images/1769526684546-device-button.png) ![](../_images/1754297100531-connectionwindow.png) ## Device Manager- Main Screen Press (1) to add a device via **Device Manager add a new device screen** ![image description](../_images/1769767100165-2026-01-30_09-57.png) Press (2) to search for previously connected device. Press (3) to close the device manager window. If the sensor becomes disconnected, press the refresh button (3) to re-start the sensor discovery process. ## Device Manager- Add a device screen ![image description](../_images/1769767699486-2026-01-30_10-08.png) Click on the new device type (1) and follow on screen instructions. Click (2) exit or return to leave this screen. > [!info] This discovery process takes up to 45 seconds dependent on hardware and configuration. - [Using Aesthetix with AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae.md) - [Using TAMS with AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-tams-with-ae.md) ## Device Manager- Main Screen ![image description](../_images/1769768321102-2026-01-30_10-18.png) Available devices are listed with a green stats icon (1) Press (2) to connect to an available device. Press (3) to access device information. Press (4) to forget a device. Press (5) to enter "Viewer mode" ## Device Manager- TAMS ![image description](../_images/1773149440023-2sz9s05o8n.png) To connect a TAMS, click add a device>TAMs. Enter the numerical part of the serial number (1) and click submit. --- # Copy and Paste > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770731582892-Screenshot-2026-02-10-135206.png) For quick and easy excel reporting, select images , right click in the table to copy and paste all the data displayed in the table. --- # How to use AE without a license > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Appearance Elements can be used, license free to interrogate and manipulate previously measured data. It is not necessary to connect an instrument to access this feature. Click the Device icon (1) to access the connection menu.![image description](../_images/1769526684546-device-button.png) Press the arrow button (1) to enter the viewer menu. ![image description](../_images/1769769511438-2026-01-30_10-37.png) Select the device type required (1) ![image description](../_images/1769770527808-2026-01-30_10-37.png) --- # Initiate a measurement in AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. To take a measurement in AE click on the measurement icon (1) ![image description](../_images/1769775492181-2026-01-30_12-17.png) AE can be configured to take multiple measurements at set time intervals. To access the measurement set up menu- RIGHT click on the measurement icon ![image description](../_images/1769775727129-Screenshot-2026-01-30-122032.png) Some instruments and modules have a interactive measurement mode. This mode uses a live view from a device camera to aid with sample positioning or allows measurement parameters to be fine tuned during the measurement process. To initiate interactive measurement press the interactive measurement icon (1) ![image description](../_images/1769776165846-2026-01-30_12-26.png) > [!tip] Measurements can also be initiated by pressing the read button on a connected instrument. > [!info] Measurement buttons are greyed out and unavailable if an instrument is not connected or a valid license file is not installed. --- # Install AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Appearance Elements is the Rhopoint software used to operate multiple Rhopoint Instruments. The latest version of Appearance Elements can be installed from the Rhopoint website. The functions of Rhopoint Appearance Elements include measurement control, quality control reporting, results analysis, and database storage. Before installing, please check the [System Requirements](rhopoint-appearance-elements-system-requirements.md) for the host PC. ## Installation Visit [Rhopoint Instruments Website](https://www.rhopointinstruments.com/help-services/resources/software/) to download the latest software installer. Double-click the `AppearanceElements.msi` package to install the software. Follow the onscreen instructions. > [!info] Installation requires administrator permissions. The installation itself does **not** install any device drivers — drivers are installed on first start with an instrument connected. See the [IT Deployment Guide](rhopoint-appearance-elements-it-deployment-guide.md) for details. [Start AE Software](rhopoint-appearance-elements-start-ae-software.md) --- # IT Deployment Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. This page is for the **IT administrators** who roll out and support Rhopoint Appearance Elements (AE) and the Aesthetix instrument on company PCs. It explains what is installed where, which privileges are needed and why, and what network access the software uses. It is split into two parts: - **Appearance Elements** — the software installation and the software itself. - **Aesthetix** — what additionally applies when an Aesthetix instrument is used. For hardware and OS requirements see [System Requirements](rhopoint-appearance-elements-system-requirements.md). For the end-user installation walkthrough see [Install AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-install-ae.md). ## Prerequisites - **Operating system:** Windows 11, x64. See [System Requirements](rhopoint-appearance-elements-system-requirements.md). - Not supported: x86 and ARM. - **Runtime:** AE needs the **.NET 10 Desktop Runtime** and the **ASP.NET Core Runtime 10** (x64). These are bundled with the installer and installed automatically if not already present — no separate runtime deployment is required. - **WebView2:** parts of the interface use the **Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime**, which is included with Windows 11. - **Privileges:** local administrator rights are needed for installation and for the one-time driver installation (see below). ## Appearance Elements (software only) - AE is installed **per machine** into `%PROGRAMFILES%\Rhopoint Instruments Ltd\Rhopoint Appearance Elements 2`. Because it writes to Program Files, the installer **must be run with administrator rights**. - The installation itself installs **no device drivers**. Drivers are handled at first run — see [Aesthetix](#aesthetix-instrument-specific) below. - Per-user settings, the local measurement database and log files live in the user profile at `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Rhopoint Instruments Ltd\Rhopoint Appearance Elements 2`: - `\Settings` — application settings - `\Vault-` — local measurement database - `\Logs\` — log files - `\Screenshots` — saved screenshots This data is per user and is not roamed by default — keep it in mind for roaming profiles, non-persistent VDI and backup. > [!info] Without an attached instrument AE still runs — it can review, analyse and report existing data. Drivers are only needed to talk to hardware. ## Aesthetix (instrument-specific) When an Aesthetix is used, AE has to communicate with the instrument. This adds an inter-process communication (IPC) requirement and a one-time driver installation. ### The Aesthetix kernel process - To talk to the instrument, AE starts a separate process, **`Aesthetix.exe`**, from `…\Rhopoint Appearance Elements 2\Aesthetix_Kernel\bin`. - `Aesthetix.exe` communicates with AE over **TCP on port 45681**. Although AE only ever connects to it locally, the kernel currently binds the listener to **all interfaces (`0.0.0.0`)**, not just loopback. > [!warning] Because `Aesthetix.exe` binds to `0.0.0.0`, Windows Firewall treats it as a listening service and shows a **firewall prompt on first run**. Either approve that prompt, or pre-deploy an **inbound allow rule for TCP 45681** (or for `Aesthetix.exe`). IT must also make sure no other application already occupies port 45681 on that PC. AE's built-in System Check verifies both the port and the firewall. ### Driver installation (first run with a device) - On the **first start with an Aesthetix connected**, and with drivers not yet present, `Aesthetix.exe` triggers the **driver installation**. Because this installs drivers, Windows shows a **UAC elevation prompt** that an administrator must approve. - **Why can this not happen during installation?** The exact hardware configuration of the connected instrument must first be identified — and only `Aesthetix.exe` can do that. Knowing which drivers are needed, and how they must be installed, therefore requires the device to be attached and the kernel running. That is not possible at install time. - So: **start AE once with the Aesthetix connected** and approve the UAC prompt (a standard user can complete this if an administrator approves the elevation). - Once the drivers have been installed this one time, **subsequent starts do not raise the prompt and do not require administrator rights**. > [!warning] If AE is installed but never started once as admin with the instrument attached, the drivers stay missing and the device will not connect. ### Connection / USB - The Aesthetix connects over **USB 3.0 (USB-C or Thunderbolt)** and presents a machine-vision (USB3 Vision) camera. Use a genuine USB 3.x port; USB 2 ports and some hubs cause connection or bandwidth problems. ### USB mass storage (calibration data) > [!warning] In addition to the camera, the Aesthetix presents itself as a **USB flash drive (removable mass storage)**. On startup, `Aesthetix.exe` reads the instrument's calibration data, serial number and optical map from this drive. If IT policy **blocks USB mass storage**, the kernel cannot read this data and **the instrument will not work** — an exception is mandatory. Allow USB mass storage for the Aesthetix — ideally scoped to this device (by its hardware ID) rather than opening USB storage globally. The Windows mechanisms that can block it — all checked by Symmetron's *USB Flash Drive Access* test and by AE's built-in System Check — are: - `HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR` — the USBSTOR service must be enabled (`Start` = 3), not disabled (`Start` = 4). - `HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\RemovableStorageAccess` — the *Removable Disks: Deny all access* policy (`Deny_All`) must be off, or the device must be exempted. - `HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorageDevicePolicies` — `WriteProtect` should be off; read access is essential and the instrument may also need write access. - Any third-party DLP / endpoint-protection USB control must likewise allow (allowlist) the device. ## Network access (updates, licensing, diagnostics) AE runs fully offline for measurement. The endpoints below are **outbound HTTPS (443)** only and enable online features; allow them in the proxy/firewall where those features are wanted: - `*.rhopointservice.net` — software updates, asset download, update checks, error and feedback reporting. - `*.rhopointservice.com` — licence activation and checks, changelog, error-code lookup, assets. - `www.rhopointinstruments.com` — product news feed and software downloads. No inbound connections from the internet are required. ## Diagnostics and troubleshooting ### Rhopoint Symmetron (recommended) **Rhopoint Symmetron** is a free, standalone diagnostic tool and the best starting point for IT: it needs no licence and does not require any Rhopoint software to be installed. Download it from — it keeps itself up to date, and all of its checks are read-only. See [Rhopoint Symmetron](rhopoint-symmetron.md). Use it to: - **Before installing** — run the compatibility checks for the intended product (e.g. *Appearance Elements + Aesthetix*) to confirm the PC meets every requirement: OS, memory, USB 3 controllers and ports, camera driver and connectivity. See [Running Compatibility Checks](rhopoint-symmetron-running-compatibility-checks.md). - **Verify connectivity** — confirm the PC can reach the Rhopoint online services, which is useful when a proxy or firewall is in the way. See [Connectivity](rhopoint-symmetron-connectivity.md). - **When something breaks** — the [Diagnose](rhopoint-symmetron-diagnose.md) tab collects application logs, Windows Error Reporting crash reports and relevant Event Log entries for Appearance Elements or the Aesthetix kernel, then bundles them as a ZIP or sends them to Rhopoint Support in one click. ### AE built-in System Check AE also includes a built-in **System Check** that reports on the OS, CPU architecture, memory, the .NET runtime, USB 3 controllers and ports, USB flash drive access, TCP port 45681 availability, Windows Firewall rules and registered antivirus — handy once AE is installed and a PC will not connect. ### Antivirus / endpoint protection Antivirus or endpoint protection can interfere — through real-time scanning of capture files, USB device blocking, or behavioural detection of the kernel. If connection or performance problems appear, consider allow-listing the install directory and `Aesthetix.exe`, and permitting the USB device. See also [Device Connection Problems](rhopoint-appearance-elements-trouble-shooting-device-connection-problems.md). --- # Start AE Software > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Start the software Double-click the Rhopoint Appearance Elements icon created on the desktop to start the software. ![Desktop icon](../_images/1769529338522-ae-icon.png) Rhopoint Appearance Elements desktop icon ## Software Update When connected to the web AE will check Rhopoint Servers for an update. [AE Software Update](rhopoint-appearance-elements-ae-software-update.md) ## Additional setup On the first start, the camera drivers are checked. If the drivers are missing, they will be installed upon confirming the following dialog: ![Install USB vision](../_images/1768553555163-1744381983081-install-usb-vision.png) USB camera driver installation [Install Module Licenses](rhopoint-appearance-elements-ae-licence-manager.md) --- # System Requirements > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Before installing Appearance Elements, check the requirements for the host PC. ## Recommended System Requirements - **OS:** Windows 11 (Windows 10 support ends October 2025) - **Memory:** 16 GB - **CPU:** x64 (x86 and ARM are not supported) - **Port:** USB 3.0 USB-C or Thunderbolt - **Screen Resolution:** 1920 x 1080 ## Minimum System Requirements - **OS:** Windows 11 (Windows 10 support ends October 2025) - **Memory:** 8 GB - **CPU:** x64 (x86 and ARM are not supported) - **Port:** USB 3.0 USB-C or Thunderbolt - **Screen Resolution:** 1440 x 900 --- # Using the Database > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Selected measurements can be saved dynamically in the results database. Results saved in the database are marked with a “D” (1) ![image description](../_images/1770369567740-20260206-091854-screenshot-ae.png)] Measurements marked with a D in the database column are saved in the Appearance Elements database. To add measurements to the database - Click on the dashed circle next to the measurement. - Select multiple measurements in the selection column and click the Save to Database icon. Several results can be saved in the database by selecting them (1) and clicking the Save to Database icon (2)]![image description](../_images/1770369766355-20260206-092145-screenshot-ae.png)![image description](../_images/1770369881257-20260206-092401-screenshot-ae.png) > [!tip] Once results are uploaded to the database they cannot be removed from measurement view. Measurements deleted from the measurement view will remain in the Database. To delete measurements from the database it is necessary to access the database view. Changes to text or batches made in the Results Table will automatically be updated in the database. ## Database viewer To access the data base view click the Data Base View icon (1) ![image description](../_images/1770370005249-20260206-092609-screenshot-ae.png) > [!info] If the database view icon is greyed out, the user does not have required permissions to access the database and cannot delete saved data. ![image description](../_images/1770370097621-20260206-092734-screenshot-ae.png). Measurements saved in the database are listed. - Search the database (1) - Double click a measurement (2) saved in the database to restore it to the measurement view. - Highlight an entry and click (3) to add it to the data table. - Highlight a measurement and click the delete icon (4) to remove it from the database. --- # Navigating the Main Screen > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770023975543-2026-02-02_09-18.png) 1. [Action Bar](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-action-bar.md) 2. [Device Manager](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-device-manager.md) 3. [Module Bar](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-module-bar.md) 4. [License Manager](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-license-manager.md) 5. [- Data Bar -](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-bar.md) 6. [Data Table](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-table.md) 7. [Systems Info](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-systems-info.md) 8. Screen Snip 9. Notification Alert 10. Help button --- # Action Bar > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770024947975-2026-02-02_09-35.png) 1. **Measure Button** Click here to start a measurement- results will be recorded in the measurement table. [Initiate a measurement in AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-initiate-a-measurement-in-ae.md) A "greyed out" measurement button indicates the licence for this module is not present or expired. [Install a new licence](rhopoint-appearance-elements-ae-licence-manager.md) 2. **Calibration** Press to begin Calibration [Calibrating an Instrument in AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-calibrating-an-instrument-in-ae.md) 3. **Interactive Measurement Button** Pressing this button will start an interactive measurement, this includes live views from the Aesthetix camera to allow for sample alignment and adjustment of measurement parameters. Interactive measurement is not available for certain modules or instruments- this button will not be present in the Action Bar 4. **Table View** Press this button to toggle the table view. [Data Table](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-table.md) --- # Device Manager > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770025340663-2026-02-02_09-41.png) This button is used to manage and connect instruments to AE. [Connect an Instrument to AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-connect-an-instrument-to-ae.md) > [!info] The device manager button is also used to configure AE to read existing data. > - [How to use AE without a license](rhopoint-appearance-elements-how-to-use-ae-without-a-license.md) --- # License Manager > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770040611022-20260202-135624-screenshot-ae.png) Press this icon to access the [License Manager](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-license-manager.md) The **License Manager** installs and manages licenses for instruments and modules in Appearance Elements. [AE Licence Manager](rhopoint-appearance-elements-ae-licence-manager.md) - Instrument licenses enable live connection and measurement; module licenses enable specific analysis workflows. - Without a valid license, modules run in viewer‑only mode and measurement buttons are greyed out. [How to use AE without a license](rhopoint-appearance-elements-how-to-use-ae-without-a-license.md) You can check the validity of your licenses at [licence-check.rhopointservice.com](https://licence-check.rhopointservice.com/). --- # Module Bar > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The **module bar** in Rhopoint Appearance Elements is where you choose which measurement modules are active in your session. It now supports Aesthetix, Rhopoint TAMS and Rhopoint ID, so what you see depends on both your licenses and the connected instrument. ![image description](../_images/1770368595970-20260206-090239-screenshot-ae.png) ## Module concept - Each module (for example Surface Brilliance, Effect Finish, Texture, Polishing Quality, TAMS waviness/texture, ID transparency) groups specific metrics and visualisations into a focused workflow. [- Aesthetix Modules -](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules.md), [TAMS Modules](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-tams-with-ae-tams-modules.md) --- # Systems Info > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770732565714-2026-02-10_14-03.png) 1. Software version number 2. Access changelog. 2. Insider program. 3. Start system checks. 5. Access logfiles 6. About information. 7. Screen font size. 8. Submit a comment. 9. Report a bug. 10. Take a screen shot 11. Notification icon. 12. Help menu. --- # Data Bar > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770729763977-2026-02-02_14-01.png) 1. [Save Data](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-bar-save-and-load-data.md) 2. [Load Data](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-bar-save-and-load-data.md) 3. [Save to database](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-the-database.md) 4. [Load from the database](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-the-database.md) 5. [Delete selected/all measurements](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-table-deleting-data.md) 6. Open Ometrix 7. Take a screen shot --- # Save and load data > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770041509303-20260202-141130-screenshot-ae.png) Results can be saved (1) or imported (2) from the measurement table. ![image description](../_images/1770041310004-2026-02-02_14-07.png) Import/Export options are chosen by clicking on the relevant tab (1) > [!tip] To share or archive results a Rhopoint Appearance Archive file (.raa) should be used. For analysis in Excel, .csv files can be exported. Map data can be exported as a .xyz file > [!note] Beta Feature- Selected results (including images) can be exported as a (.pdf) report. --- # Data Table > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Data table overview The data table in Appearance Elements (AE) is the central place where all measurements from connected instruments are listed, organised and edited. Each row represents a single measurement, while columns show key information such as batch name, instrument, module, time stamp and all selected parameters for that result (for example gloss, haze, waviness, roughness or scratch metrics). Click the magnifier icon for any row in the data table to open that measurement and view all associated content, including images, topographical maps, profiles and graphs. ![image description](../_images/1770730027798-2026-02-10_13-26.png) 1. Use the **[magnifier lens](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-table-viewing-measurement-images-and-graphs.md)** to see measurement images, graphs and topographical maps. 2. Click the **[database](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-the-database.md)** column to add a measurement to the database. 3. Select a measurement row(s) for [**copy and paste**](rhopoint-appearance-elements-copy-and-paste.md), add to the **[database](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-the-database.md)**, or [**deletion**](rhopoint-appearance-elements-navigating-the-main-screen-data-table-deleting-data.md). 4. A colour patch represents the measured RGB colour of the surface. 5. Right click on column heading to access filter and sort tools. --- # Batching Results > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Working with batches in Appearance Elements Batches in Appearance Elements are used to group related measurements so that data can be analysed, compared and reported more effectively. Batches appear as **tabs (1)** at the top of the data table, and the batch name is also shown in the **Batch column (2)** for each measurement row. ![image description](../_images/1770131637884-20260203-151324-screenshot-ae.png) ### Creating and naming batches - Click the **+(3)** button above the data table to open a new batch tab, then enter a name for this batch. - Alternatively, type a new batch name directly into the **Batch** column for any measurement; this automatically creates the batch and assigns that measurement to it. ### Adding measurements to a batch - When you take a new measurement while a specific batch tab is active, that measurement is automatically added to the currently selected batch. - You can also drag and drop existing measurements from the table onto a batch tab to move or copy them into that batch. ### Creating a batch from selected measurements - To build a batch from existing data, select the desired measurements using the **selection box (1)** in the table. - Right‑click on the selection and choose **Create batch**; a new batch is created and all selected measurements are assigned to it. ![image description](../_images/1770131846917-20260203-151655-screenshot-ae.png) --- # Deleting Data > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Click the delete icon (1) while no measurements are selected to delete **all** data from the table.![image description](../_images/1770897102345-2026-02-12_11-50.png) A dialog window will ask for confirmation. ![image description](../_images/1770897189591-2026-02-12_11-48.png) To delete **selected** readings ![image description](../_images/1770897419457-22.png) Drag selected rows to the delete icon (1) or press the delete key on you computer keyboard. --- # Statistical Analysis > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. To perform basic statistical analysis on a number of measurements. ![image description](../_images/1770896278931-2026-02-12_11-37.png) First select the required measurements, then right click in the table. ![image description](../_images/1770896289143-Screenshot-2026-02-10-135206.png) Click on **Combine selected Results** ![image description](../_images/1770896661992-2026-02-12_11-43.png) A new line is added to the table- the sample name is set to **Generated Average.** This line is the calculated average for all parameters in the table from the selected measurements. --- # Viewing Measurement Images and Graphs > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1770129291169-20260203-143354-screenshot-ae.png) Clicking the **magnifier icon (1)** opens a detailed view of the selected measurement, giving access to all associated images and graphs for that result. This lets you go beyond single numbers and explore how the surface or material actually looks and behaves under the instrument’s optics. ### What you can see with the magnifier Depending on the connected instrument and active module, the magnifier view can include: - **Gloss camera images (Aesthetix / gloss modules):** High‑resolution images showing specular reflections, linking gloss, haze and DOI values to visible effects such as halos, streaks or hotspots. - **Topographical maps (Rhopoint TAMS, Aesthetix Texture):** 3D height maps and 2D contour views that reveal hills, valleys, orange peel and texture cells, with tools for zoom, rotation and cross‑section profiles. - **Surface images and defect overlays (Aesthetix scratch/defect modules):** Observer‑camera images with highlighted scratches, dents or contamination overlaid on the real surface image. - **Profiles and graphs (all instruments):** Line profiles, roughness plots, reflectance or appearance curves that show how key metrics change across the measured area. ### Why this is useful - These instrument‑specific images and graphs make it much easier to **understand** why certain values are high or low, by directly showing the underlying defects, texture, structure or optical behaviour. - They support **rich reporting**, allowing you to combine numeric metrics (gloss, haze, waviness, roughness, transparency, scratches, etc.) with visual evidence (images, maps, profiles) when communicating with colleagues, customers or suppliers. ![image description](../_images/1770129991958-20260203-144522-screenshot-ae.png) An example image from the Texture module shows a detailed topographial map (1) of the surface and a user selected surface profile (2) from the map. Clicking on the tabs shows other options 2D surface map (3), watershed feature analysis (4), a colour surface image (5) and a section where the user can take and store photographs of the sample and add further information. --- # Device Connection Problems > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Cable Length When connecting devices via USB 3.0, it is recommended to use cables no longer than 3 meters to avoid common issues. Using longer USB 3.0 cables can lead to several problems due to various technical limitations. Here are the key issues: - **Signal Degradation** - Attenuation: As the length of the USB cable increases, the strength of the signal weakens due to attenuation. This can result in data transmission errors or complete failure to communicate. - Interference: Longer cables are more susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can further degrade the signal quality. - **Power Delivery** - Voltage Drop: Longer cables can cause a drop in voltage, leading to insufficient power being delivered to the device. This can cause devices to malfunction or not operate at all. - Current Limitations: The resistance in the longer cables can limit the current, affecting the performance of devices that require more power. - **USB Specification Limits** - Standard Length: The USB 3.0 specification limits the maximum length of cables to 3 meters. Exceeding this length can lead to unreliable performance because the USB standard is optimized for shorter cables. - Signal Timing: Longer cables can introduce latency in signal timing, which can disrupt the synchronous data transfer required by USB 3.0. - **Data Transfer Rates** - Reduced Speeds: The high-speed data transfer capabilities of USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gbps) can be compromised with longer cables. This can lead to reduced transfer speeds, making the connection less efficient. - Error Rates: Increased length can raise the error rates during data transmission, leading to repeated retransmissions and thus lower effective data rates. ### Solutions to mitigate USB cable problems - **Active USB Cables**: These cables have built-in signal boosters or repeaters that help maintain signal integrity over longer distances. - **USB Hubs with Power**: Using powered USB hubs can help maintain the necessary power levels and signal quality over extended distances by boosting the signal at each stage. - **Optical USB Cables**: These convert electrical signals to light and back, reducing signal degradation and allowing for much longer cable lengths. --- # Log Files > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. This document provides information on how to locate, access, and use log files generated by the Æ Appearance Elements software. Log files are invaluable tools for troubleshooting and problem-solving and can be retrieved from a specified directory within your system. The following sections will guide you on how to find these files, understand their naming conventions, and employ them for effective troubleshooting. ## Location The log files for the software are located in your local drive. You can find them in this directory: `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Rhopoint Instruments Ltd\Rhopoint Appearance Elements 2\Logs`. For example, if your username is `username`, the full path will be: `C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Rhopoint Instruments Ltd\Rhopoint Appearance Elements 2\Logs` ## Accessing Log Files To access the log files, look at the version display in the bottom right corner of the main application window. Click on this version number to open the log files folder. ## Log File Naming The log files are named according to the date when they were generated. This allows you to easily identify logs from a specific time. ## Log File Usage Please remember that these log files can be highly helpful in troubleshooting any issues you may face. We encourage you to send them to the Rhopoint Instruments Customer Support whenever you seek help regarding any problems. The logs provide our support team with valuable information, aiding them in effectively diagnosing and addressing your concerns. --- # Using Aesthetix with AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Install Appearance Elements [Install AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-install-ae.md) ## Connect the Aesthetix to AE The Aesthetix must be connected to an available USB 3.0 port on your PC, Laptop or Windows Tablet. [Connect an Instruments to AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-connect-an-instrument-to-ae.md) ## Configure the Aesthetix Sensor The Aesthetix can be configured with a standard measurement adaptor, small area/curved surface adaptor, or special jigs or adaptors. [Aesthetix removeable adaptors and jigs](rhopoint-aesthetix-curved-surfaces-non-contact-measurement.md) ## Select a Module The Rhopoint Aesthetix can be used with multiple software modules to measure different aspects of surface appearance and quality. --- # Calibrating Aesthetix in AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Once a module is chosen, it may be required to calibrate the sensor. ## Calibration Standards The following standards must be used dependent on the module. | Module | Standard | |------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Gloss Module | B8000-011 Gloss Module Standard | | Texture Module | B8000-012 Texture Module Standard | | Coatings Physical Test | B8000-011 Gloss Module Standard | Modules which do not require calibration include: - Sparkle Module Click on the calibration icon to begin calibration and follow the on-screen instructions. [Calibrating an Instrument in AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-calibrating-an-instrument-in-ae.md) > [!tip] Calibration interval > The instrument should be checked by measuring the calibration tile daily and comparing read values with the certified values. If values are out of tolerance, recalibrate the sensor. > [!warning] Calibration artifacts must be clean with no contamination, visible damage, or fingerprints. --- # Aesthetix Modules Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Module Bar is used to select Measurement Modules. ![image description](../_images/1769527060840-modules.png) 1. **Visual Demo** A feature which gives the user control over the instrument cameras and light sources. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-visual-demo-module.md) 2. **Surface Brilliance Module** Measure the gloss, perception gloss, haze, sharpness, DOI and orange-peel on a surface. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-surface-brilliance.md) 3. **Effect Finish Module** Analyses the appearance of metallic and pearlescent pigments, anodised metals and natural sparkling materials. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-effect-finish-module.md) 4. **Texture Module** Captures surface roughness, cell amplitude and size, and hill to valley reflectiveness of textured surfaces. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-texture-module.md) 5. **Cross-cut Adhesion Module** Objectively quantify the results of adhesion strength tests using digital imaging analysis. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-cross-cut-module.md) 6. **Linear Scratch Module** Measure the size and area of linear defects visible in 0/45° lighting conditions. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-linear-scratch-module.md) 7. **Polishing Quality Module** Measure the size and area of radial defects visible in 0/45° lighting conditions. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-polishing-quality-module.md) 8. **Boring Thickness Module** Resolve the thickness of every individual layer in a multi-layer coating stack from a single Säberg-drilled crater. [Read more](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module.md) --- # Visual demo module > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. This module is used to manually control Aesthetix light sources and cameras. Surface or gloss images from these screens can be saved with or without overlays. ## Surface View Mode ![image description](../_images/1769527415660-demo.png) ### Surface View Controls 1. 45 Degree Light- toggle between all on and all off. 2. Overlay control- switch on overlays to indicate measurement areas for Aesthetix Modules. 3. Camera exposure control, click "A" to activate auto-exposure or use manual slider. 4. Individual LED control (Line light, 6 x 45 degree ring lights, 10 degree spotlight ) 5. Image Controls (Reset view, switch to gloss view, reset camera, copy image to clipboard, save image to file) Visual demo specular camera ## Gloss View Mode ![image description](../_images/1769528603447-gloss-demo.png) ### Gloss view controls 1. 45 degree light sources toggle on/off. 2. Toggle gloss measurment area indicator. 3. Toggle gloss light source on/off. 4. Camera exposure control, click "A" to activate auto-exposure or use manual slider. 5. Image Controls (Reset view, switch to surface view, reset camera, copy image to clipboard, save image to file). --- # Boring Thickness Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Aesthetix Boring Thickness Module measures the individual layer thicknesses of a multi-layer coating system by imaging a precision-drilled conical crater (Säberg drill / "Säberg method") and converting the visible ring radii into micrometre values. Where conventional non-contact thickness gauges (magnetic, eddy current) only return the **total** dry-film thickness, the boring method allows you to **resolve each layer of the coating stack individually** — primer, basecoat, clearcoat — from a single measurement. ### Why Layer-Resolved Thickness Matters #### Quality Control of Multi-Layer Systems Modern paint and coating systems frequently consist of three or more functional layers. Each layer has its own role (corrosion protection, colour, gloss, weather resistance) and its own specified thickness window. A correct **total** dry-film thickness is not sufficient to prove that the system was applied correctly — a thick primer compensating for a thin topcoat passes a magnetic gauge but fails the actual specification. #### Verification of Application Process Boring thickness measurement is used in automotive OEM, architectural coatings, anti-corrosion coatings (ISO 12944), and industrial paint application to verify that each spray pass deposited the intended amount of material. #### Reference Method The boring (Säberg drill) method is a recognised destructive reference method for dry-film thickness measurement under **ISO 2808** ("Paints and varnishes — Determination of film thickness"). It is typically used to calibrate non-destructive gauges or to investigate failures detected with non-destructive techniques. ### How Boring Thickness Works with Aesthetix A precision drill bit with a known, fixed cone angle (the **Drill Angle**) cuts a shallow conical crater through the entire coating stack and into the substrate. Because the cone angle is known, each layer interface intersects the cone surface as a circular ring whose radius is directly proportional to the layer's depth. ![](../_images/20260610142210-boring-thickness-sample.png) The Aesthetix camera images the crater from above. The user — or Aesthetix' automatic detection — places one circle on every visible ring boundary. The module then calculates each layer thickness from adjacent ring radii using: $$ \text{Layer thickness}\;[\mu\text{m}] = \left| r_\text{outer} - r_\text{inner} \right| \times \tan(\text{Drill Angle}) \times \frac{\text{mm}}{\text{pixel}} \times 1000 $$ with N concentric circles producing N − 1 layer thicknesses (outermost circle = top of the coating system, innermost circle = bottom of the deepest layer). ![](../_images/20260610144035-TBD-boring-empty-preview.png) ### Required Tool: The Säberg Drill The Boring Thickness Module requires a separate, manually operated Säberg drill (sometimes called "drill grinder" or "PIG drill") to prepare the sample. The drill is not part of the Aesthetix system; commonly used bits have cone angles of **5.7°**, **10°**, **20°** or **30°**. The actual cone angle of the bit used **must** be entered as the Drill Angle parameter in Appearance Elements — see [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md). ### When to Use This Module - Determining the thickness of **individual** layers in a multi-layer coating stack - Validating coating specifications layer-by-layer - Calibrating or auditing non-destructive thickness gauges - Investigating coating failures where layer-specific information is required ### Considerations Boring thickness measurement is **destructive**: the drill removes a small, conical area of coating down to the substrate. The measured area cannot be restored and the substrate is exposed at the drill site, requiring touch-up. Where a non-destructive total dry-film thickness measurement is sufficient, that method should be preferred and the boring method reserved for cases where layer resolution is needed. ### Boring Thickness Module Documentation - [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md) — Drill Angle, Invert Image, Center Lock - [How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-how-to-measure-with-boring-thickness-module.md) — Standard automatic workflow - [Boring Thickness Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-manual-mode.md) — Manual placement and editing of ring boundaries - [Boring Thickness Measurement Guide](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-measurement-guide.md) — Best practices, troubleshooting, edge cases --- # Boring Thickness Manual Mode > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Manual mode lets you place, move, resize and remove ring boundaries by hand. Use it when automatic detection misses a layer, places a ring on a non-boundary feature, or fails entirely on low-contrast samples. The procedure described in [How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-how-to-measure-with-boring-thickness-module.md) applies up to the point where you would press **Auto**. From there, replace step 6 with the manual workflow below. ### Drawing a Ring The way you create a ring depends on whether **Center Mode** is Locked or Free — see [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md) for the parameter itself. #### Center Mode Free — Edge-to-Edge Drawing 1. Click on the live image at one edge of the ring you want to capture. 2. Hold the mouse button and drag to the opposite edge of the same ring. 3. Release the mouse. A ring is created whose diameter equals the distance between the two click points. This mode is intended for asymmetric craters or for samples where you want to follow each visible ring exactly. #### Center Mode Locked — Radius from Reference Centre 1. Make sure at least one reference ring (the first ring in the list) already exists. If none exists, draw it first with Center Mode temporarily Free, then enable Locked again. 2. Click anywhere on the rim of the next ring. The new ring is created with the **same centre** as ring #1 and a radius equal to the distance from the centre to the click point. This mode is the recommended workflow for a correctly drilled concentric Säberg crater. ### Selecting a Ring Click directly on the outline of an existing ring. The ring turns **blue** and a dashed bounding box with five interactive nodes appears: ![](../_images/20260611165222-TBD-boring-manual-circle-nodes.png) - **Centre node** — drag to move the ring (with Center Lock on, all rings move together). - **Four corner nodes** — drag to resize the ring. The ring stays circular (width and height are kept equal). ### Editing Ring Values Numerically The ring list on the right of the module shows every ring with its **Radius**, **Center X** and **Center Y** in millimetres. These fields are directly editable: click into a cell, type the new value, and press Enter. Use this when you have an external reference for the expected ring radii (for example, a calibration standard). The **#** column is the ring order. The order can be changed by drag-and-drop within the list; this affects only the display, not the measurement. ### Removing a Ring Click the **trash** icon in the ring's row in the list. The ring is removed from the image and the remaining rings are renumbered automatically. ### Recommended Manual Workflow 1. Open the Boring Thickness module and set the Drill Angle (see [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md)). 2. Place the instrument on the sample and run Auto-Exposure. 3. Decide on Center Mode — **Locked** for a correctly drilled crater, **Free** for an asymmetric one. 4. Draw or auto-detect the rings. 5. Edit any misaligned rings using the bounding-box nodes or the numerical fields in the ring list. 6. Visually verify that every ring sits exactly on a layer boundary and that no spurious rings remain. 7. Press the **Tick** button to save the measurement. 8. Review the overlay and accept or reject as in step 9 of [How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-how-to-measure-with-boring-thickness-module.md). ### When to Prefer Manual Mode over Auto - The coating has low inter-layer contrast and automatic detection misses layers. - The crater has visible imperfections (drill marks, swarf, dust) that automatic detection picks up as false boundaries. - You are calibrating against a reference sample with known ring radii and want full control. - You only want to measure a **subset** of the visible layers (for example, only top and bottom). --- # Boring Thickness Measurement Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. This guide collects best practices, common pitfalls, and troubleshooting steps for the Boring Thickness Module. For the standard workflow see [How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-how-to-measure-with-boring-thickness-module.md), and for manual placement see [Boring Thickness Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-manual-mode.md). ### Sample Preparation The quality of the boring measurement depends almost entirely on the quality of the drilled crater. Aesthetix can only measure what is visible in the image. - **Use a sharp, clean drill bit.** A worn bit produces an irregular cone and frayed layer edges. - **Drill at a stable, perpendicular angle** to the coating surface. A tilted drill produces an **elliptical** crater whose rings are no longer truly concentric and whose radii do not match the cone geometry — the calculated thicknesses will be biased. - **Drill deep enough** to reach into the substrate. The outermost ring must correspond to the original coating surface; the innermost ring must lie clearly within the deepest layer (or in the substrate itself). - **Clean the crater** with a soft brush or compressed air. Drill swarf and dust create false features that confuse automatic detection. ### Imaging the Crater - Always run **Auto-Exposure** before measuring. Boundaries between layers of similar colour are very sensitive to exposure. - If the coating colours are such that an inner layer is **darker** than the layer above it (for example, dark primer under a lighter topcoat), enable **Invert Image** in the properties panel — see [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md). - Centre the crater in the live image. Rings near the image edge are subject to greater lens distortion and their radii will be slightly biased. ### Choosing the Drill Angle The Drill Angle parameter must exactly match the physical angle of the drill bit used. Common bits are engraved with their angle. | Drill Angle | Magnification of layer thickness | |---|---| | 5.7° | × 10 (Δr × 0.0997 ≈ Δr / 10) | | 10° | × 5.67 | | 20° | × 2.75 | | 30° | × 1.73 | Smaller angles "stretch" thin layers over a wider radial distance and are preferred for thin coatings; larger angles concentrate the crater and are preferred for thick coatings on small samples. See [Drill Angle](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-drill-angle.md) in the glossary. ### Center Mode — When Locked and When Free - **Locked (recommended default):** Use for any correctly drilled, geometrically concentric crater. Center Lock removes subpixel detection noise that would otherwise produce slightly offset rings. - **Free:** Use only when you deliberately want to follow visibly non-concentric rings, for example to investigate a tilted drill or an asymmetric crater. ![](../_images/20260611164621-TBD-boring-centre-locked.png) ### Verifying the Result After the measurement is calculated, the overlay shows numbered layer labels between adjacent rings and a "Layers:" summary in the top-left corner of the result image. Cross-check: - **Layer count.** The module produces N − 1 layers from N rings. If you expected three layers but the table shows two, one ring is missing. - **Plausibility of values.** Typical decorative paint layers are in the range of 10–80 µm; primers may be 20–60 µm; industrial heavy-duty coatings can reach several hundred µm. Values orders of magnitude off this range usually point to a wrong Drill Angle. - **Total Depth.** Compare the total depth to an independent non-destructive thickness measurement on the same sample, if available. ### Troubleshooting | Symptom | Likely cause | Fix | |---|---|---| | Automatic detection finds no rings | Crater too dark, too bright, or filled with swarf | Re-run Auto-Exposure; clean the crater; try Invert Image | | Automatic detection misses one ring | Low contrast between two adjacent layers | Add the missing ring manually — see [Boring Thickness Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-manual-mode.md) | | Rings slightly offset from each other | Subpixel detection noise on a concentric crater | Enable Center Lock | | Rings clearly off-centre | Drill held at an angle, crater is elliptical | Re-drill perpendicular; results from a tilted crater are biased | | Layer thicknesses one order of magnitude wrong | Drill Angle parameter does not match the physical bit | Check engraved angle on the bit; correct the Drill Angle in properties; press Set | | Layer thicknesses are wrong but proportional | mm/pixel calibration of the Aspec camera is off | Recalibrate the device — see the calibration section of the Aesthetix manual | | More than five visible layers | Module table stores only Layer 1–5 Depth | Plan ahead: drill only the layers you need to resolve, or export the raw layer depth list | ### When Not to Use This Module - For routine total dry-film thickness on a known coating, a non-destructive magnetic or eddy-current gauge is faster, non-destructive, and sufficient. - For very thin coatings (< 5 µm total) the radial spread of the rings is below the lateral resolution of the Aspec camera and the measurement becomes unreliable. - For samples where the substrate is not visually distinguishable from the deepest coating layer, the innermost ring cannot be placed reliably. --- # Boring Thickness Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Boring Thickness module exposes three measurement parameters in the right-hand properties panel. They control how Appearance Elements interprets the imaged crater and converts pixel radii into layer thicknesses in micrometers. Presets can also be created and saved. ![](../_images/20260611094523-TBD-Measure-Params.png) ### Drill Angle The cone angle of the Säberg drill bit used to prepare the sample, in degrees. - **Default:** 5.7° - **Allowed range:** 0° – 90° - **Typical values:** 5.7°, 8.5°, 14°, 26.6°, 45° (depending on the bit physically used) > [!warning] The Drill Angle is the single most important parameter for accuracy. The calculated layer thicknesses are directly proportional to `tan(Drill Angle)`. Entering the wrong angle does **not** produce a warning — the module will return plausible but incorrect µm values. Always verify the engraved angle on the drill bit before measuring. #### When to Adjust Whenever the drill bit physically used to prepare the crater is replaced with a different angle. The default of 5.7° matches the most common Säberg bit but is not universal. See also: [Drill Angle](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-drill-angle.md) in the glossary. ### Marker Color A toggle that inverts the captured image before ring detection runs. - **Options:** Dark or Light The setting determines where the Auto mode finds the outer edge of the formed crater. ### Center Mode A toggle that forces all rings to share a single common centre point. - **Options:** Free or Locked (per-user preference; the last setting is restored when AE is launched). - **Effect when Locked:** - Any new ring you draw inherits the centre of the **first** ring in the list. - When you drag the centre node of any ring, **all** rings move together as a group. - When you set to Locked with rings already present, all existing rings are immediately recentred onto the centre of ring #1. #### When to Use Set Center Mode to Locked for any **correctly drilled** Säberg crater — by geometry the rings are truly concentric, and locking the centre prevents subpixel detection noise from producing slightly offset circles, improving the consistency of layer radii. Use Free Center Mode only when the crater itself is visibly asymmetric (for example, the drill was held at a slight angle) and you need to follow the actual ring positions rather than enforce a perfect cone. ### Presets The default preset uses the 5.7° Drill Angle and the Dark Marker Color, default presets are not editable. To create presets: - Press the plus button to open the Preset Creation Wizard - Enter a name for your preset and press OK ![](../_images/20260611105342-TBD-Preset-name.png) - Enter a description if required, this can be left blank - The parameters are now editable, set the desired parameters and Press the save button to save the changes - Presets can be deleted by opening a preset using the drop down and pressing the delete icon --- # Boring Thickness Tool > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Rhopoint Boring Thickness tool is used to create a controlled, shallow conical crater in a coated surface, thereby exposing the full coating stack in cross-section for measurement and analysis. ![](../_images/Boring tool.jpg) ## Boring Thickness Tool Parts ![](../_images/B8010-Paint Borer 2 (1).jpg) ## How it works: - The tool uses a rotating drill that is gently pressed against the sample surface. The weight of the Turn Wheel and Collet assembly is designed to exert a good amount of pressure for most coatings. - As the Turn Wheel is rotated, it gradually removes material in a circular motion, forming a tapered (conical) crater rather than a straight hole. - Because the crater is angled, each layer within the coating stack is spread out along the slope. - This effectively magnifies the apparent thickness of each layer, making them easier to observe and measure using the Aesthetix. - The process continues until the crater passes through all coating layers and slightly into the substrate, ensuring the complete stack is revealed. In summary: Instead of drilling a simple hole, the tool creates a precise angled cross-section, allowing accurate measurement of coating thickness by analysing the exposed layer widths along the crater surface. ## Using the Boring Thickness Tool: WARNING: Boring drills are sharp, handle with extreme care. - Remove the base cover to access the drill ![](../_images/Boring Tool 2.png) - Select the drill based on the guide below: ![](../_images/TBD-Drill table.png) - Insert the drill into the collet aligning the edge of the collet with the step in the drill ![](../_images/Boring tool 1.png) - Tighten the collet, the drill height is now set - If the surface of the sample is light make a dark area using a black paint marker - If the surface of the sample is dark make a light area using a white paint marker - Holding the turn wheel up to avoid the drill hitting the surface align the tool over the marked area ![](../_images/TBD-Sample-Alignment.png) - Let the turn wheel lower until the drill hits the drilling surface, hold the main body to prevent movement and rotate the turn wheel until the desired crater is formed (this can be checked by gently lifting the drill) ![](../_images/TBD-Paint-Borer-Sample-Crater.png) - You are now ready to measure the thickness of your coating [How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-how-to-measure-with-boring-thickness-module.md) --- # How to Measure with Boring Thickness Module > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. This guide describes the standard, automatic workflow for measuring layer thicknesses on a Säberg-drilled multi-layer coating sample. For manual placement or editing of the ring boundaries, see [Boring Thickness Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-manual-mode.md). ### Before You Start - A Säberg drill bit of a **known** cone angle has been used to prepare a clean conical crater through the coating stack down to (or close to) the substrate. - The Aesthetix device is connected, calibrated, and listed in the device manager. - The drilled site is clean and free of dust or drill swarf. ### Step-by-Step 1. **Open the Boring Thickness module** In the Module Bar, select the Boring Thickness Module. ![](../_images/20260610145244-TBD-module-bar-with-boring.png) 2. **Enter the Drill Angle** In the right-hand properties panel, set the **Drill Angle** to match the cone angle engraved on the drill bit used to prepare the sample (for example 5.7°). Confirm by pressing **Set**. See [Boring Thickness Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-parameters.md) for details on every parameter. 3. **Place the instrument on the sample** Position the Aesthetix flat over the drilled crater so the crater is centred and entirely visible in the live image. 4. **Optimise the camera exposure** Press the **Auto-Exposure** button (the "A ±" button below the live image). All rings should be clearly visible with sharp contrast between adjacent layers. Set the Marker color, this will enable the detection of the outer circle. 5. **Enable Center Lock (recommended)** For a correctly drilled, concentric crater, enable **Center Lock** in the properties panel. This forces every detected ring to share the same center point and improves consistency. 6. **Run automatic ring detection** Press the **Auto** button. Appearance Elements takes a preview measurement and places one circle on each detected ring boundary. ![](../_images/20260611162434-TBD-boring-auto-detection.png) 7. **Verify the detected rings** Inspect each detected ring against the actual layer boundary in the image: - If a ring is missing, add it manually — see [Boring Thickness Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-boring-thickness-module-boring-thickness-manual-mode.md). - If a ring is misplaced, select it (single click on the ring outline) and drag its edge to align it, or edit Radius / Center X / Center Y directly in the ring list on the right. - If a ring was detected on a feature that is not a layer boundary (dust, scratch, drill swarf), remove it using the trash icon in its row. - Coating or Layer Thickness is calculated below the Circle properties 8. **Run the measurement** Press the **Tick** button. Appearance Elements saves the layer thicknesses from the current ring radii and the Drill Angle to the measurement table. 10. **Inspect the result in the table** Return to the table view (Navigate to Table View button). The measurement appears as a row with **Total Depth**, **Drill Angle**, and individual **Layer 1–5 Depth** columns. ![](../_images/20260611163920-TBD-boring-data-table.png) Expanding the row reveals the drill image, the overlay with numbered rings, and a per-layer thickness table. ![](../_images/20260611164121-TBD-boring-expanded-result.png) ### Tips for a Good First Measurement - Always perform an Auto-Exposure first; an over- or under-exposed image will both confuse automatic detection and hide subtle layer boundaries. - The outermost ring corresponds to the **top** of the coating system (Layer 1 = topcoat); the innermost ring corresponds to the **bottom** of the deepest measurable layer. - The module supports up to **five** layers in the data table (Layer 1 Depth … Layer 5 Depth). Drilling six or more visible rings is technically possible but additional layers will not be stored as separate table columns. --- # Cross-cut Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Aesthetix Cross-cut Module replaces the subjective visual analysis of cross-cut panels with reproducible imaging measurement. In the paint and coatings industry, adhesion is a critical property that determines the durability and performance of a coating under various conditions. In the paint and coatings industry, adhesion is a critical property that determines the durability and performance of a coating under various conditions. The Cross-cut Test, standardized by ISO (International Organization for Standardization) under ISO 2409, is a widely recognized method for evaluating the adhesion of a coating to a substrate. ### Why Cross-cut Testing is Important #### Adhesion as a Key Quality Indicator Coatings are applied to protect surfaces from environmental damage, corrosion, or wear, and to enhance aesthetics. A coating's ability to adhere strongly to a substrate ensures it performs its intended function over time without peeling, flaking, or detaching. #### Reliability Across Industries Cross-cut testing is used globally to ensure coatings meet consistent quality and performance standards. It helps manufacturers, contractors, and end-users to validate product reliability, regardless of the substrate type or environmental conditions. #### Ease and Precision The test involves making a grid of cuts (cross-cuts) through the coating down to the substrate using a specialized cutting tool. After the grid is created, adhesive tape is applied and removed to assess the coating's adhesion based on the extent of detachment or flaking observed in the cut areas. The results are graded on a numerical scale, making it a simple yet precise evaluation method. #### Standardized Benchmarking By following the ISO 2409 standard, the test provides a clear benchmark for comparing coating performance. This helps in quality control, product development, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. ### Cross-cut Testing with Aesthetix The Aesthetix device leverages the principles of the ISO Cross-cut Test to provide accurate and repeatable measurements of cross-cuts, not being subject to daily form. With Aesthetix, users can efficiently and neutrally assess the durability of their coatings, ensuring they meet both performance expectations and industry standards. This empowers paint and coating professionals to achieve superior product performance and durability. ### Cross-cut Properties The standard method for ISO 2409 proposes to cut six horizontal and six vertical lines. The Default setting for Appearance Elements is to use this setup with a cut spacing of 2.0 mm, a cut thickness of 0.2mm and a detection threshold of 10%. ![Cross-cut default properties](../_images/1765873971468-crosscut-default-properties.png) #### Cut Spacing Cut Spacing (also called line spacing) is the distance between the centers of nearby cut lines. #### Cut Thickness Cut Thickness is how wide each cut line is. #### Cut Detection Threshold Cut Detection Threshold controls how the system tells the difference between areas with coating and areas where the coating has been removed. The system starts with an automatic guess based on image brightness. ##### Purpose: This setting helps fine-tune the system's guess so it better separates coated from uncoated areas. It's especially useful near the edges where the coating may only be partly removed. - Raise the threshold to include more subtle changes—this helps catch areas where the coating was lightly removed. - Lower the threshold to ignore faint signals or small amounts of leftover coating—this helps avoid marking coated areas as removed. ##### When to adjust: Adjust the Cut Detection Threshold if the automatic setting makes mistakes, such as: - Marking coated areas as removed, or - Missing areas where the coating was actually removed. Make small changes and check the results to get the best separation between coated and uncoated regions. #### Manual Measurement Method After setting the properties of the cross-cut detection, the preview will display the cross-cut grid. ![Crosscut preview with grid](../_images/1768553950617-1765875103309-crosscut-preview-with-grid.png) > [!info] The white grid in the preview will mirror the settings in properties and will only appear after you have taken at least one measurement. Please arrange the grid and the cross-cut image as close as possible, as only a matching overlay would ensure a perfect result. If you see that your grid does not match, please modify the properties accordingly. ![Cross-cut example 1](../_images/1768553916659-1765874234299-Cross-Cut1.png) Ideal results should look like as in the images below; note that the images show detected remaining coating in green overlay colour: ![Cross-cut example 2](../_images/1768553922086-1765874258882-Cross-Cut2.png) If you are experiencing issues with the selection of remaining coating, please adjust the Cut Detection Threshold until the resulting overlay is covering the area correctly. ### Testing Coatings with Low Absorption Against the Substrate For samples having a brighter coating compared to the substrate, you might be experiencing issues. In this case, it might help to use the “Invert Map” setting, to differentiate the cross-cut by inverting the image and then performing the analysis. --- # Cross-cut Adhesion Auto Mode > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Automatic mode uses image analysis to automatically detect the cuts in the grid and evaluate adhesion with consistent, repeatable results. [Manual Mode](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-cross-cut-module-cross-cut-adhesion-manual-mode.md) in the Cross-cut Adhesion module lets the user interactively align the grid and fine‑tune detection settings for difficult materials, such as low-contrast coatings or uneven cross-cut grids. 1. **Activate Interactive Measurement** - In the crosscut module, press the interactive measurement button. ![image description](../_images/1770390197104-20260206-150251-screenshot-ae.png) 2. **Optimize Camera Exposure** Place the instrument on the cross cut test- a clear live image of the surface should be visible. To adjust the image; - Use the **Auto-Exposure** button (1) to optimise the camera exposure for the surface's reflectivity. - If necessary, manually adjust the exposure using the slider. (2). ![image description](../_images/1771336191176-mt3KTaUDVn.png) 3. **Choose Automatic mode (1)** - Check the Auto mode icon is in the on position (1). ![image description](../_images/1771336385711-7E8WZCSRGp.png) 4. **Choose test parameters** - Set grid size (1) and cut parameters to match the test panel (2). - Press the set button (3) to redraw the red guide box (4). - Move the instrument so the guide box (4) is positioned outside the test grid. - Press (5) to start a trial measurement. ![image description](../_images/1771337401360-cP05KQVFzi.png) 5. **Testing on white or light colours** The default setup detects cut lines that are lighter than the background. When testing light colours the lines can be darker than the background. If cut lines are darker that the background colour; - Switch off auto contrast (1) and select invert image (2) ![image description](../_images/1771346495247-mhV2e32uKz.png) ## 6. **Finetuning the detected paint area** The cut detection threshold can be adjusted to; - Finetune a measurement so edges are more accurately defined. - Isolate a certain colour of remaining material, for example when determining intercoat adhesion. 7. **Adjusting the cut detection threshold** - Click on/off the found overlay (1). ![image description](../_images/1771339094383-lwwyUZJvLQ.png) - The green overlay should match the area of undamaged coating. Increasing the threshold (1) makes the detection algorithm more sensitive. Decreasing the threshold (1) makes it less sensitive. ![image description](../_images/1771347333397-DMG3Eqbyfz.png) ![image description](../_images/1771341106852-Screenshot-2026-02-17-150754.png) When the found ovelay matches the undamaged pain area; - Click the accept measurement button (1) to include it in the table. ![image description](../_images/1771347699720-va48Vla7YQ.png) --- # Cross-cut Adhesion Manual Mode > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Manual mode in the Cross-cut Adhesion module lets the user interactively align the grid and fine‑tune detection settings for difficult materials, such as low-contrast coatings or uneven cross-cut grids. 1. **Activate Interactive Measurement** - In the crosscut module, press the interactive measurement button. ![image description](../_images/1770390197104-20260206-150251-screenshot-ae.png) 2. **Optimize Camera Exposure** Place the instrument on the cross cut test- a clear live image of the surface should be visible. To adjust the image; - Use the **Auto-Exposure** button (1) to optimise the camera exposure for the surface's reflectivity. - If necessary, manually adjust the exposure using the slider. (2). ![image description](../_images/1771336191176-mt3KTaUDVn.png) 3. **Choose Automatic mode (1)** - Check the Auto mode icon is in the off position (1). ![image description](../_images/1771419899924-Rnl7BzjuR1.png) 4. **Choose test parameters** - Set grid size (1) and cut parameter (2) to match the test panel. - Move the instrument so test pattern is in the centre of the window (3). ![image description](../_images/1771420519172-8NPx37BcwM.png) 5. **Align the grid** - Click on the four corners of the test grid (1,2,3,4) ![image description](../_images/1771421128507-BwyfL05pyC.png) > [!tip] Zoom in with your mouse scroll wheel for precise placement of corners.![image description](../_images/1771421416815-2mCG6cmuWr.png) Press the set button (1) to draw the grid, check the alignment and cut thickness match the test grid (3) ![image description](../_images/1771421608959-ptFBGYKokH.png) Press the trial button (1) to analyse the sample. ![image description](../_images/1771421719706-reoOY2D6ah.png) 5. **Testing on white or light colours** The default setup detects cut lines that are lighter than the background. When testing light colours the lines can be darker than the background. If cut lines are darker that the background colour; - Switch off auto contrast (1) and select invert image (2) ![image description](../_images/1771421856694-GyZ5oE5Gl0.png) 6. **Finetuning the detected paint area** The cut detection threshold can be adjusted to; - Finetune a measurement so edges are more accurately defined. - Isolate a certain colour of remaining material, for example when determining intercoat adhesion. 7. **Adjusting the cut detection threshold** - Click on/off the found overlay (1). ![image description](../_images/1771339094383-lwwyUZJvLQ.png) - The green overlay should match the area of undamaged coating. Increasing the threshold (1) makes the detection algorithm more sensitive. Decreasing the threshold (1) makes it less sensitive. ![image description](../_images/1771347333397-DMG3Eqbyfz.png) ![image description](../_images/1771341106852-Screenshot-2026-02-17-150754.png) When the found overlay matches the undamaged pain area; - Click the accept measurement button (1) to include it in the table. ![image description](../_images/1771347699720-va48Vla7YQ.png) --- # Cross-cut Module Measurement Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How Does Aesthetix Measure Cross-cut Adhesion? The Aesthetix measures cross-cut adhesion using its **Cross-cut Module**, which is designed to evaluate coating adhesion strength based on the ISO 2409 standard. This involves creating a grid of cuts through the coating down to the substrate and analysing the extent of coating detachment after adhesive tape is applied and removed. #### Measurement Process: 1. **Image Capture**: High-resolution images of the cross-cut area are captured 2. **Grid Removal**: The Aesthetix creates a virtual grid based on the user input on cut numbers and thiCkness, thickness, the grid is excluded from the analysis. 3. **Analysis**: The software analyses the coating detachment, identifying areas where the coating has peeled or flaked. 4. **Quantification**: Results are expressed as the percentage of remaining coating within the grid, providing an objective measure of adhesion. This automated process ensures repeatable and accurate results, eliminating subjective errors often associated with manual evaluations. --- ### Measurements Provided by Aesthetix for Cross-cut Adhesion The Aesthetix provides several metrics to quantify cross-cut adhesion: 1. **Remaining Coating Percentage**: The percentage of intact coating remaining within the cross-cut grid after testing. 2. **Cut Detection Threshold**: Adjustable sensitivity for distinguishing adhered and detached coating areas. 3. **Grid Overlay Accuracy**: Ensures precise alignment of the measurement grid with the cross-cut area. #### Comparison and Application: - Use **Remaining Coating Percentage** for general adhesion strength assessment. - Adjust the **Cut Detection Threshold** for coatings with varying contrast or brightness relative to the substrate. - For coatings with low absorption or challenging substrates, use the **Invert Map** setting to improve detection accuracy. For most applications, the **Remaining Coating Percentage** is sufficient for quality control purposes, while threshold adjustments are useful for specific materials or substrates. --- ### Visualising Cross-cut Adhesion Using Appearance Elements The Rhopoint Appearance Elements software provides tools to visualise cross-cut adhesion: 1. **Open Cross-cut View**: - Navigate to the "Cross-cut Module" in the software. - View a live image of the cross-cut area with an overlaid grid. 2. **Analyse Remaining Coating**: - Use colour-coded overlays (e.g., green for adhered areas, red for detached areas) to visualise adhesion performance. - Adjust grid alignment or detection thresholds if needed. 3. **Detailed Metrics Display**: - Access quantitative results in a dedicated results panel, including remaining coating percentage and cut spacing/thickness parameters. 4. **Export Results**: - Save images and data for reporting or further analysis. --- ### Improving Coating Adhesion To improve coating adhesion: 1. **Surface Preparation**: - Clean surfaces thoroughly to remove contaminants like oils, dust, or residues. - Use surface treatments such as sanding, etching, or priming to enhance mechanical bonding. 2. **Coating Formulation**: - Adjust binder content in paint formulations to improve adhesion properties. - Include additives that promote better wetting and bonding with substrates. 3. **Application Process**: - Ensure consistent application thickness and uniformity. - Avoid application in high humidity or extreme temperatures that could affect curing. 4. **Curing Conditions**: - Follow recommended curing times and temperatures to ensure proper film formation and bonding. 5. **Substrate Compatibility**: - Select coatings compatible with specific substrate materials (e.g., metals, plastics). By combining these adjustments with precise measurements from Aesthetix, manufacturers can enhance coating performance and ensure compliance with quality standards. --- # Cross-cut Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. | Parameter | Description | | ---------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 60° Gloss | Conventional 60° gloss value. | | Undamaged | Percentage of the cross‑hatched test area that remains fully coated after the adhesion test; higher values indicate better coating adhesion to the substrate. | | ASTM Class | Adhesion rating according to ASTM D3359, expressed in standard classes (for example 5B to 0B) based on the amount of coating removed in the cross-cut grid. | | ISO Class | Adhesion rating according to ISO 2409, using ISO classes (0 to 5) to describe the degree of flaking and detachment around the cuts. | | RGB Colour | Red, green and blue channel values from the cross-cut image, used to document the visual appearance of the test area | --- # How to Measure with Cross-cut Module > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How to measure Cross-cut Adhesion 1. **Activate Interactive Measurement** - Press the interactive measurement button. ![image description](../_images/1770390197104-20260206-150251-screenshot-ae.png) 2. **Optimize Camera Exposure** - Use the **Auto-Exposure** button (1) to optimise the camera exposure for the surface's reflectivity. - If necessary, manually adjust the exposure using the slider. (2). ![image description](../_images/1771336191176-mt3KTaUDVn.png) 3. **Choose Automatic or Manual Mode (1)** In **auto mode** AE detects the cuts, draws the virtual grid and calculates the amount of removed coating. For irregular grids or tricky applications, the user can use **manual mode** to select the corners of the cross cut grid. ![image description](../_images/1771336385711-7E8WZCSRGp.png) --- # Effect Finish Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The **Effect Finish module** characterises coatings containing metallic, effect pigments by measuring sparkle, graininess, waviness, gloss and RGB colour, so you can control how dynamic, coarse and colourful the finish appears under real viewing conditions. It links image-based sparkle metrics with conventional gloss measurements to describe effect finishes in a way that closely follows human visual perception. ### Purpose of this module - Quantify the key visual attributes of effect coatings, including sparkle density and visibility, graininess, waviness/orange peel, gloss and colour, under defined geometries. - Provide perception-aligned parameters for effect finishes, helping formulators and OEMs specify and agree on target appearance for metallic and pearlescent systems. ### Where this module can be used - Automotive and commercial vehicle exterior and interior parts using metallic or pearlescent basecoats, tricoats or coloured effect layers. - Consumer electronics, appliances, packaging, cosmetics and other products that rely on controlled sparkle, graininess and overall surface character to support branding and premium appearance. ### What this module measures - Sparkle metrics (Density, Area, Brightness, Visibility in RGB channels at 10° and 45°) that describe how many sparkle points are visible, how large they are and how bright they appear from different angles. - Graininess, waviness, gloss and RGB colour, giving a combined description of coarseness, orange peel and overall reflectivity/colour of the effect finish. ### How to use this module - In Appearance Elements, select the Effect Finish module, choose the appropriate fixture or stand for your sample geometry, and perform the recommended calibration on the supplied reference standard. - Place the Aesthetix sensor over the area of interest, trigger one or more measurements, and store the results in the relevant job, batch or template for later comparison. ### How to interpret the results - Use sparkle Density, Area, Brightness and Visibility (at 10° and 45°) to judge how intense, coarse and angle-dependent the sparkle effect appears compared to target or reference panels. - Combine graininess, waviness, gloss and RGB data to determine whether the overall coarseness, orange peel and colour of the effect coating fall within agreed appearance specifications for your application. --- # Effect Finish Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. |Index|Description (Effect Finish module)| |---|---| | 60° |60° Gloss; overall specular reflectance level of the effect coating.| |Waviness|Waviness of the effect finish, describing large‑scale distortion of reflections.| |Graininess|Perceived coarseness or fineness of the metallic/effect flake structure in the coating.| |Density (10°)|Number of visible sparkle points per 100 mm² area near 10°, indicating how densely flakes sparkle head‑on.| |Area (10°)|Average sparkle size near 10°, describing the typical area of individual sparkle elements.| |Brightness (10°)|Average luminance of sparkle points near 10°, describing how bright the sparkles appear head‑on.| |Visibility (10°)|Average perceived brightness of sparkle elements near 10°, considering their visibility and the background colour of the material.| |Density (45°)|Number of visible sparkle points per 100 mm² area at 45°, indicating flake activity at the side view.| |Area (45°)|Average sparkle size at 45°, describing the typical area of individual sparkle elements off‑specular.| |Brightness (45°)|Average luminance of sparkle points at 45°, describing perceived sparkle brightness from the side.| |Visibility (45°)|Average perceived brightness of sparkle elements at 45°, considering their visibility and the background colour of the material.| |SpR (10°)|Red‑channel sparkle intensity measured close to the viewing direction at 10°.| |SpG (10°)|Green‑channel sparkle intensity measured close to the viewing direction at 10°.| |SpB (10°)|Blue‑channel sparkle intensity measured close to the viewing direction at 10°.| |SpR (45°)|Red‑channel sparkle intensity measured at the off‑specular 45° viewing direction.| |SpG (45°)|Green‑channel sparkle intensity measured at the off‑specular 45° viewing direction.| |SpB (45°)|Blue‑channel sparkle intensity measured at the off‑specular 45° viewing direction.| |R|Average red‑channel surface colour of the effect finish (RGB).| |G|Average green‑channel surface colour of the effect finish (RGB).| |B|Average blue‑channel surface colour of the effect finish (RGB).| --- # Interpreting Effect Finish Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How Does Aesthetix Measure Sparkle and Graininess? The Aesthetix measures **sparkle** and **graininess** using advanced imaging techniques that capture surface reflectance under specific lighting conditions. - **Sparkle Measurement**: Sparkle is quantified by identifying and analyzing bright points of light (sparkle points) that are significantly brighter than their surroundings under directional illumination. The system captures high-dynamic-range images using multiple light sources at 45° and a single image at 10° angles. The visibility, density, and size of these sparkle points are calculated based on contrast thresholds, luminance, and spatial distribution. - **Graininess Measurement**: Graininess is assessed under diffuse lighting conditions. The software analyzes the spatial variation in the luminance factor of the surface, focusing on intermediate spatial frequencies. This captures the non-uniform, granular texture perceived as graininess. ### Measurements Provided by Aesthetix for Sparkle and Graininess #### Sparkle Metrics: 1. **Sparkle Density**: Number of visible sparkle points per 100 mm². 2. **Sparkle Visibility**: Average intensity of visible sparkle points relative to the background. 3. **Sparkle Area**: Average size of individual sparkle points in square micrometers. #### Graininess Metrics: 1. **Graininess Value (G)**: Quantifies the perceived coarseness of a surface under diffuse lighting, adjusted for luminance levels. #### Comparison and Application: - Use **Sparkle Density** and **Visibility** for applications where the brightness and concentration of sparkle points are critical (e.g., automotive coatings or cosmetics). - Use **Graininess Value** for assessing surface uniformity in diffuse lighting, especially in applications like interior finishes or textured coatings. For most applications, both metrics provide complementary insights into surface appearance. Choose based on whether directional (sparkle) or diffuse (graininess) lighting conditions dominate in the product's end-use environment. ### Visualizing Sparkle and Graininess Using Appearance Elements The Rhopoint Appearance Elements software allows detailed visualization of sparkle and graininess: 1. **Sparkle Visualization**: - Open the "Sparkle View" tab to see a high-resolution image of sparkle points. - Adjust thresholds to highlight visible sparkle elements. - Use color-coded overlays to differentiate between sparkle density and visibility. 2. **Graininess Visualization**: - Switch to the "Graininess Map" view to see a luminance variation map. - Analyze spatial frequency data to understand the granularity distribution. 3. **Interactive Tools**: - Use zoom and pan tools to inspect specific regions. - Compare multiple samples side-by-side to evaluate consistency. ### Adjusting Sparkle and Graininess To modify sparkle or graininess: 1. **For Sparkle**: - Increase pigment size or concentration in coatings to enhance sparkle density. - Optimize application methods (e.g., spray angle or curing conditions) to improve uniformity. - Use directional additives or effect pigments for more pronounced sparkle effects. 2. **For Graininess**: - Adjust pigment dispersion or particle size during formulation to reduce graininess. - Ensure even application thickness to minimize texture inconsistencies. - Use finer polishing techniques or smoother substrates for a more uniform appearance. By leveraging Aesthetix measurements, manufacturers can fine-tune processes to achieve desired visual effects while maintaining consistency across production batches. --- # Taking a Measurement - Effect Finish Module > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How to measure Sparkle and Graininess The measurement button is used to start single or multiple measurement that are sent directly to the table. 1. Ensure the sensor is calibrated. 2. To access the multiple readings feature, right click on the measurement button. 3. Press the measurement button to start (1) ![](../_images/1770389072243-20260206-144325-screenshot-ae.png) ### How to measure sparkle and graininess using the interactive measurement feature The interactive measurement function is a "live" view of the sample surface. The surface camera is used to identify particular areas of interest on the surface before starting a measurement. ![](../_images/1770389864220-20260206-145524-screenshot-ae.png) 1. Take a measurement 2. Start calibration Procedure 3. Switch to main screen with table 4. Recentre camera view 5. Switch on 10 degree spot light 6. Switch on 45 degree light source(s) 7. Standard sparkle measurement area. ### Measurement Procedure 1. Ensure the sensor is calibrated. 2. Press the button (1) to activate the interactive measurement feature. ![](../_images/1770390197104-20260206-150251-screenshot-ae.png) 3. Adjust the light sources as required, recommended setting are 45 Degree Light Sources- all illuminated, or single spot light only illuminated. 4. Use the auto-exposure button to optimize the camera exposure for the surface's reflectivity. 5. Manually adjust exposure if needed using the slider or input box. 6. The blue square indicates the measurement area for this module. 7. To measure the sparkle and graininess of an identified area on the surface move the sensor until the required area is enclosed by the blue square. > [!info] Adjusting the exposure settings do not affect measurements. This control is used to get a clear surface image for positioning purposes. --- # Linear Scratch Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The **Linear Scratch module** uses the 45° circumferential light source and observer camera to detect and quantify linear and small-area defects—such as scratches, dents, streaks and contamination—that are visible under normal viewing conditions, for example in a laboratory light booth or typical office lighting. It turns what would normally be a subjective visual check under standard room lighting into clear numerical indicators that can be trended, compared and specified. ### Purpose of this module - Identify and measure linear and local defects that reduce perceived surface quality in everyday viewing environments, not just under extreme or artificial inspection lighting. - Provide process feedback so you can compare cleaning, coating and handling steps, and set objective pass/fail limits for scratches, dents, streaks and visible contamination. ### How defects are detected - The module uses a 45° circumferential light source to illuminate the surface uniformly from all directions at 45°, closely mimicking common overhead and light‑booth conditions while enhancing the visibility of defects. - A camera observes the same area and captures high‑resolution images in which scratches, dents, streaks and contaminants appear as local changes in brightness, relative to the surrounding surface. - Image‑processing algorithms then separate these defect features from the normal background appearance, classify them by type and geometry, and calculate parameters such as length, area, count and visibility. ### Directional categorisation: horizontal and vertical scratches Detected linear features are further analysed by their orientation on the surface and automatically classified as predominantly horizontal or vertical scratches. By comparing the total length, area and count of horizontal versus vertical scratches, the Aesthetix can reveal inhomogeneity or directional damage, for example abrasion caused by a process step that acts mainly in one direction (such as machine polishing, wiping or conveyor contact). This directional information helps users diagnose root causes more quickly, adjust process settings (tool paths, wiping direction, handling fixtures) and verify that corrective actions have reduced directional scratching rather than simply changing its orientation. ### Role of sensitivity - A **Sensitivity** control adjusts how strongly the detection algorithm responds to subtle defect features in the images. - At **low sensitivity**, only the most obvious scratches and defects are reported, corresponding to marks that are clearly visible under normal office or light‑booth conditions. - At **medium sensitivity**, the module reveals finer streaks, lighter scratches and small contamination spots that may be noticed by trained inspectors or under slightly more critical viewing. - At the **highest sensitivity**, all visible linear and local features are highlighted, including faint defects that may only be noticed under very critical inspection, while still being evaluated within a normal‑lighting context. ### What this module measures - **Length parameters** (total, vertical and horizontal) describe how extensive linear defects such as scratches and streaks are, and whether they are predominantly oriented in one direction. - **Area parameters** quantify how much of the measured region is covered by detected defects (scratches, dents, contamination), again split into total, vertical and horizontal components where applicable. - **Count parameters** report how many individual defect features are present for each orientation or class, giving a simple defect density measure. - **Visibility parameters** express how noticeable these defects are under typical viewing conditions, combining their size, brightness and contrast into perception‑based values. ### How to use this module in practice - Use lower sensitivity settings and the visibility parameters to set realistic acceptance criteria that reflect what customers and end‑users see in laboratory booths, offices or showrooms. - Increase sensitivity when you need to diagnose underlying quality issues, compare alternative process steps, or ensure that a premium surface remains visually clean and uniform under more critical inspection. - Trend defect metrics over time or between batches to confirm that surface preparation, coating, polishing and handling processes are stable, and that any changes in materials or equipment do not introduce new visible defects. --- # Linear Scratch Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. |Index|Name / Title|Unit|Description| |---|---|---|---| |60°|60° Gloss|GU|Conventional 60° gloss value indicating overall specular reflectance of the polished area.| |Min Length|Minimum Detection Length|µm|Parameter which determines the minimum length of detected scratches.| |Sensitivity|Sensitivity of Detection|–|Parameter which controls the sesnistivity of the scratch detection algorithm.| |Mask Radius|10° Spot Covering Mask Area|Pixel|Parameter which sets the radius of the analysis mask used around the 10° spot when detecting scratches.| |Length|Average Scratch Length|µm|Average length of all detected scratches in the measurement area.| |Length V|Average Scratch Lengh Vertical|µm|Average length of scratches predominantly oriented in the vertical direction.| |Length H|Average Scratch Lengh Horizontal|µm|Average total length of scratches predominantly oriented in the horizontal direction.| |Area|Total Scratched Area|µm²|Combined area covered by all detected scratches.| |Area V|Scratched Area Vertical|µm²|Total area of vertically oriented scratches.| |Area H|Scratched Area Horizontal|µm²|Total area of horizontally oriented scratches.| |Count|Total Scratches|–|Total number of scratches detected in the analysed area.| |Count V|Scratches Vertical|–|Number of vertically oriented scratches.| |Count H|Scratches Horizontal|–|Number of horizontally oriented scratches.| |Visibility|Scratch Visibility Average|AU*|Average perceived visibility of all detected scratches.| |Visibility V|Scratch Visibility Vertical|AU*|Perceived visibility of vertically oriented scratches.| |Visibility H|Scratch Visibility Horizontal|AU*|Perceived visibility of horizontally oriented scratches.| |R (RGB)|Red Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average red-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| |G (RGB)|Green Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average green-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| |B (RGB)|Blue Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average blue-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| *AU = arbitrary (instrument) units. --- # Measuring Linear Scratches > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. #### Select a measurement mode ![image description](../_images/1769613224491-20260128-151302-screenshot-ae.png) To measure polishing quality with default or last used parameters, press (1) a measurement will be made and the results will be added to the data table. To adjust parameters before starting a measurement, click the interactive measurement icon (2). #### Analysis Preview ![image description](../_images/1769619253701-20260128-165324-screenshot-ae.png) The analysis preview shows a live view from the observer camera. A blue box (1) shows the measurement area. Adjust settings (3) to change camera exposure settings (changing exposure in this view does not effect measurement). Press (2) to take a a trial measurement. #### Measurement Preview ![image description](../_images/1769619548558-20260128-165700-screenshot-ae.png) When a preview measurment has been completed the results are shown in a preview window. The left image shows the identified damage on the surface, adjusting the measurement parameters (1) will change the amount of detected damage. [How to adjust Polishing Quality Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-polishing-quality-module-adjusting-polishing-quality-parameters.md) The overlay control (2) highlight 'horizontal', 'vertical' or 'all' scratches. These values are recorded seperately in the measurement data and can be used to detect directional damage in the surface. To recalculate the measurement results (4) adjust the parameters (1) and press apply parameters icon (3). #### Complete or restart measurement ![image description](../_images/1769614625496-20260128-153638-screenshot-ae.png) To complete the measurement process, press the tick icon (1)- the trial measurement values will be transfered to the data table. To restart the process press the cancel icon (2). #### Review measurement results ![image description](../_images/1769614744886-20260128-153841-screenshot-ae.png) To review measurments in the table, press the table icon (1). --- # Polishing Quality Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The **Polishing Quality module** evaluates how well a high-gloss surface has been polished by simultaneously quantifying gloss, haze, sharpness/DOI and polishing defects such as scratches, swirls and holograms. It turns what would normally be a subjective visual judgement into objective, repeatable numbers that closely reflect how clean, sharp and defect‑free the surface appears to the human eye. ### Purpose of this module - Optimise and control polishing processes by measuring the presence and severity of fine scratches, swirls and holograms together with gloss, haze and sharpness. - Provide perception‑aligned metrics that allow OEMs, body shops and suppliers to agree clear pass/fail limits for polishing quality, reducing rework and disputes. ### Where this module can be used - High‑gloss automotive exterior and interior components, including clearcoats, spot repairs, piano black trims and high-end refinish work. - Premium consumer goods, furniture, glass and plastic parts where ultra‑smooth, scratch‑free finishes are critical for perceived quality and brand image. ### What this module measures - Gloss, haze (including LogH / LogH C) and sharpness/DOI to characterise overall reflectivity, depth of finish and image clarity of the polished surface. - Scratch and polishing defect metrics such as scratch length, scratch count, total area and visibility giving a detailed map of swirl marks and micro‑scratches. ### How to use this module - In Rhopoint Appearance Elements, select the Polishing Quality module, choose the correct adaptor or stand for the part geometry, and calibrate on the supplied reference tile as recommended. - Position the Aesthetix sensor over the area of interest (for example a polished panel or spot repair), trigger one or more measurements, then save the numerical results and images into the relevant job, batch or template. ### How to interpret the results - Use gloss, haze and sharpness/DOI values to confirm that the overall level of mirror‑like finish meets specification, and to detect over‑ or under‑polishing with the haze parameters. - Review scratch length, area, count and visibility values (and corresponding images) to decide whether swirls, holograms and micro‑scratches are below acceptable thresholds, and to compare different polishing compounds, pads or process steps. --- # Adjusting Polishing Quality Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1769611003606-20260128-143516-screenshot-ae.png) ### **1. Minimum Length** - **Purpose:** Sets the smallest size of defects to be included in the analysis, measured in microns. - **How It Works:** - Larger values exclude smaller defects, focusing on more significant imperfections. - Smaller values include finer defects but may increase detection of irrelevant marks. - **Adjustment Steps:** 1. Begin with a moderate value based on your quality standards (Default is 100 microns). 2. Decrease the value if you need to detect shorter defects. 3. Increase the value to focus only on larger imperfections. 4. Adjust based on the typical size of defects relevant to your product quality criteria. ### **2. Sensitivity** - **Purpose:** Controls the threshold for detecting linear defects based on their visibility (contrast against the background). - **Options:** Lowest, Low, Moderate, High, Highest - **How It Works:** - Higher sensitivity detects more subtle defects but may include false positives. - Lower sensitivity focuses on more prominent defects, potentially missing subtle ones. - **Adjustment Steps:** 1. Start with "Lowest" sensitivity. 2. If important defects are missed, increase the sensitivity. ### **3. Mask Radius** - **Purpose:** Excludes the direct reflection of the high-intensity spot from the analysis. 1. The default radius removes the spot reflection in smooth mirror like surface. 2. Increase the radius if surface haze or polishing marks are increasing the reflected spot size and interfering with defect detection. --- # Interpreting Polishing Quality Results > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How Does Aesthetix Measure Polishing Quality (Scratches, Swirls, and Holograms)? The Aesthetix evaluates polishing quality by using **high-resolution imaging and advanced algorithms** to detect and quantify surface defects such as scratches, swirls, and holograms. These imperfections are identified based on their unique visual characteristics under specific lighting conditions. #### Measurement Process: 1. **Directional Illumination**: The Aesthetix uses multiple light sources, including a **10° point light** and a **45° ring light**, to illuminate the surface. These lighting setups enhance the visibility of defects like scratches, swirls, and holograms. 2. **High-Resolution Imaging**: A camera captures detailed images of the illuminated surface. Scratches appear as linear features, swirls as concentric circular patterns, and holograms as elongated streaks starting from the light source. 3. **Image Analysis**: The system applies image segmentation algorithms to isolate and quantify these defects. Metrics such as defect length, width, density, and orientation are calculated. This approach ensures precise detection of polishing defects that are often difficult to identify under standard inspection conditions. --- ### Additional Measurements Provided by Aesthetix In addition to detecting scratches, swirls, and holograms, the Aesthetix provides several advanced metrics to further analyse surface quality: 1. **Sharpness**: - Measures the clarity and definition of edges in reflected images. - Higher sharpness values (measured in Sharpness Units [SU]) indicate clearer reflections with well-defined edges. - Useful for assessing overall surface quality and how well the surface reflects fine details. 2. **Distinctness of Image (DOI)**: - Evaluates the overall clarity of reflected images. - Higher DOI values indicate less distortion in reflections, making it ideal for applications requiring smooth finishes (e.g., automotive coatings). 3. **LogHaze C**: - Quantifies technical haze caused by light scattering around a specular reflection. - Important for identifying micro-textures or contaminants that reduce clarity. 4. **Visual Haze Outdoor (VHout)**: - Adjusts haze measurements to match human perception under outdoor lighting conditions. - Critical for applications where products are viewed in bright sunlight or high-intensity lighting environments. #### Comparison and Application: - Use **Sharpness** for high-gloss surfaces where edge clarity is critical (e.g., automotive finishes or polished metals). - Choose **DOI** when assessing the overall distinctness of reflections is more important than edge sharpness. - Select **LogHaze C** for technical analysis of haze caused by micro-textures or contaminants. - Opt for **Visual Haze Outdoor** when evaluating surfaces intended for outdoor use, ensuring defects like holograms or haze are not visible under sunlight. Each metric provides unique insights into surface quality; selecting the right one depends on your specific application requirements. --- ### Visualising Polishing Quality Using Appearance Elements The Rhopoint Appearance Elements software enables detailed visualisation of polishing quality: 1. **Open Defect View**: - Navigate to the "Defect View" tab in the software. - Use directional lighting options (e.g., 10° point light) to highlight surface imperfections. 2. **Analyse Defects**: - Scratches appear as linear features in the captured images. - Swirls are displayed as circular patterns, while holograms appear as elongated streaks. - Colour-coded overlays can be applied to distinguish between defect types. 3. **Visualise Advanced Metrics**: - Access additional views for Sharpness, DOI, LogHaze C, and Visual Haze Outdoor. - Compare these metrics side-by-side with defect visualisations to correlate numerical values with observed imperfections. 4. **Quantitative Analysis**: - View metrics such as scratch density, swirl intensity, sharpness units (SU), DOI values, and haze levels in the results panel. - Compare multiple samples side-by-side for consistency checks. 5. **Export Results**: - Save annotated images and data for reporting or further analysis. --- ### Improving Polishing Quality (Reducing Visibility of Scratches, Swirls, and Holograms) To improve polishing quality and reduce visible defects: 1. **Optimise Polishing Techniques**: - Use finer abrasives or polishing compounds to minimise scratches. - Avoid excessive pressure during rotary polishing to reduce swirl marks. - Use dual-action polishers instead of rotary tools to prevent holograms. 2. **Control Environmental Factors**: - Ensure a clean workspace to avoid introducing dust or debris during polishing. - Maintain consistent temperature and humidity to optimise compound performance. 3. **Use High-Quality Materials**: - Select premium polishing pads and compounds designed for specific surface types. - Ensure compatibility between pads, compounds, and coatings. 4. **Inspect Regularly During Polishing**: - Periodically check surfaces under directional lighting to identify defects early. - Adjust techniques or materials as needed based on real-time feedback. 5. **Apply Protective Coatings**: - Use sealants or ceramic coatings after polishing to protect against future scratches or defects. By leveraging precise measurements from Aesthetix alongside these improvement strategies, manufacturers can achieve consistently high-quality finishes with minimal visible imperfections while ensuring alignment with human perception under various lighting conditions. --- # Measuring Polish Quality > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. #### Select a measurement mode ![image description](../_images/1769613224491-20260128-151302-screenshot-ae.png) To measure polishing quality with default or last used parameters, press (1) a measurement will be made results will be added to the data table. To adjust parameters before starting a measurement, click the interactive measurement icon (2). #### Surface Preview ![image description](../_images/1769612174576-20260128-145459-screenshot-ae.png) The surface preview is used to position the sample over an area of interest. The 45 degree ring lights show surface damage and marks. Analysis for polishing marks is made using the 10 degree spot light- press (2) to activate this. #### Analysis Preview ![image description](../_images/1769612688502-20260128-150332-screenshot-ae.png) A blue box (1) shows the measurement area. Press (2) to take a a trial measurement. Adjust settings (3) to change camera exposure settings (changing exposure in this view does not effect measurement). #### Measurement Preview ![image description](../_images/1769613965001-20260128-152430-screenshot-ae.png) When a preview measurement has been completed the results are shown in a preview window. The left image shows the identified damage on the surface, adjusting the measurement parameters (1) will change the amount of detected damage. [How to adjust Polishing Quality Parameters](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-polishing-quality-module-adjusting-polishing-quality-parameters.md) The overlay control (2) highlight 'horizontal', 'vertical' or 'all' scratches. These values are recorded separately in the measurement data and can be used to detect directional damage in the surface. To recalculate the measurement results (4) adjust the parameters (1) and press apply parameters icon (3). #### Complete or restart measurement ![image description](../_images/1769614625496-20260128-153638-screenshot-ae.png) To complete the measurement process, press the tick icon (1)- the trial measurement values will be transferred to the data table. To restart the process press the cancel icon (2). #### Review measurement results ![image description](../_images/1769614744886-20260128-153841-screenshot-ae.png) To review measurements in the table, press the table icon (1). --- # Polishing Quality Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. |Index|Name / Title|Unit|Description| |---|---|---|---| |60°|60° Gloss|GU|Conventional 60° gloss value indicating overall specular reflectance of the polished area.| |S|Sharpness|%|Measures image sharpness/clarity in the reflected image, related to DOI; higher values mean crisper reflections.| |MC Haze|Michelson Haze|HU|Quantifies haze as low-contrast veiling around reflections that reduces clarity on polished surfaces.| |LogH C|LogHaze Compensated|logHU|Compensated LogH value that corrects for gloss level, aligning more closely with visual perception of haze.| |VisH-Out|Visual Haze Outdoors|VHU|Perception-based haze index modelling how haze appears under outdoor/daylight conditions.| |VisH-In|Visual Haze Indoors|VHU|Perception-based haze index modelling how haze appears under indoor/controlled lighting.| |DOI|Distinctness of Image|%|Describes how clearly objects are reflected in the surface; low DOI indicates milky or blurred reflections.| |Min Length|Minimum Detection Length|µm|Parameter which determines the minimum length of detected scratches.| |Sensitivity|Sensitivity of Detection|–|Parameter which controls the sesnistivity of the scratch detection algorithm.| |Mask Radius|10° Spot Covering Mask Area|Pixel|Parameter which sets the radius of the analysis mask used around the 10° spot when detecting scratches.| |Length|Average Scratch Length|µm|Average length of all detected scratches in the measurement area.| |Length V|Average Scratch Lengh Vertical|µm|Average length of scratches predominantly oriented in the vertical direction.| |Length H|Average Scratch Lengh Horizontal|µm|Average total length of scratches predominantly oriented in the horizontal direction.| |Area|Total Scratched Area|µm²|Combined area covered by all detected scratches.| |Area V|Scratched Area Vertical|µm²|Total area of vertically oriented scratches.| |Area H|Scratched Area Horizontal|µm²|Total area of horizontally oriented scratches.| |Count|Total Scratches|–|Total number of scratches detected in the analysed area.| |Count V|Scratches Vertical|–|Number of vertically oriented scratches.| |Count H|Scratches Horizontal|–|Number of horizontally oriented scratches.| |Visibility|Scratch Visibility Average|AU*|Average perceived visibility of all detected scratches.| |Visibility V|Scratch Visibility Vertical|AU*|Perceived visibility of vertically oriented scratches.| |Visibility H|Scratch Visibility Horizontal|AU*|Perceived visibility of horizontally oriented scratches.| |R (RGB)|Red Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average red-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| |G (RGB)|Green Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average green-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| |B (RGB)|Blue Channel Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average blue-channel surface colour in the analysed area.| *AU = arbitrary (instrument) units. --- # Surface Brilliance Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Surface Brilliance module provides a complete, perception-based evaluation of glossy surfaces by combining gloss, visual gloss, haze, sharpness/DOI, waviness and RGB colour into a single measurement. It is designed to show how “brilliant” or mirror-like a surface appears to the human eye, going far beyond traditional gloss units. ### Purpose of this module Quantify all key contributors to high-gloss appearance, including reflectivity, image sharpness, haze and orange peel/waviness on coated or polished surfaces. Provide perception-aligned metrics that reduce disputes between suppliers and customers by matching measured values to what people actually see. ### Where this module can be used High-gloss exterior and interior coatings in automotive, commercial vehicles, marine and rail applications. Premium consumer goods, electronics, furniture, appliances, and other products where mirror-like finishes and brand-defining appearance are critical. ### What this module measures Gloss and Visual Gloss: Conventional gloss values and perception-based gloss scales that better reflect how bright and glossy the surface appears. Haze, Visual Haze, Sharpness/DOI and Waviness: Metrics for cloudiness, clarity of reflected images and orange peel, plus luminance and RGB colour for full surface characterisation. ### How to use this module In Appearance Elements, select the Surface Brilliance module and choose the appropriate adapter (for example, standard flat panel, curved or small-area adaptor) for your part geometry. Position the Aesthetix sensor on the surface (or at the defined non-contact distance), run a calibration as recommended, then take one or more measurements and save them to the chosen job, batch or template. ### How to interpret the results Use gloss and Visual Gloss to compare overall brightness and reflectivity; higher values typically indicate a more brilliant, mirror-like finish. Assess haze, Visual Haze, Sharpness/DOI and Waviness to understand whether defects such as cloudiness, orange peel or loss of image clarity are within acceptable tolerance bands for your product. --- # DOI & Sharpness Measurement Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. |DOI Units|Description| |---|---| |0-50 %|No discernible reflected image.| |50-70 %|Low DOI, a reflected image is barely visible.| |70-90 %|Moderate DOI, a distinct reflected image is visible.| |90-95 %|High DOI, showing a very clear and distinct reflected image.| |95-100 %|Very high DOI, indicating an exceptionally clear reflection.| ### What are sharpness and DOI? How does Aesthetix these values? How do these values compare, which one should i use for my application? How Can I visualise DOI/Sharpness Using Appearance Elements? How can I change the DOI and Sharpness of a surface? #### Sharpness and DOI Sharpness and Distinctness of Image (DOI) are related measurements that quantify the clarity and definition of reflections on a surface. #### Sharpness Sharpness specifically assesses the clarity and definition of edges within a reflected image. It is measured on a scale from 0 to 100 Sharpness Units (SU), where higher values indicate clearer, sharper reflections[^1]. #### Distinctness of Image (DOI) DOI evaluates the overall clarity and distinctness of the entire reflected image. It quantifies how clearly and undistorted an image is reflected off a surface[^1]. ### Aesthetix Measurement Method The Aesthetix measures sharpness by: 1. Capturing a high-resolution image of a light source reflected on the sample surface using its camera sensor 2. Analyzing the sharpness of edges in this reflected image 3. Deriving a sharpness value that correlates with human visual perception[^1] For DOI, the Aesthetix likely uses a similar image-based approach, analyzing the overall clarity of the reflected image rather than focusing specifically on edge sharpness. ### Comparison and Usage Sharpness is generally considered more advanced and sensitive than traditional DOI measurements, especially for high-quality surfaces[^1]. - Sharpness provides more detailed information about edge clarity in reflections - Sharpness correlates better with human visual perception - Sharpness can detect subtle differences in very high-quality surfaces that DOI may miss For most modern applications, especially those involving high-gloss or high-quality surfaces, sharpness is recommended over DOI. However, DOI may still be used for backwards compatibility with existing specifications or standards[^1]. ### Visualizing in Appearance Elements To visualize sharpness/DOI in Appearance Elements: 1. Use the live view feature from the gloss camera 2. Switch to the gloss camera view using the switch camera icon 3. Use auto-exposure to optimize for the surface's reflectivity 4. Manually adjust exposure if needed 5. Control the specular light source, line light, and spotlight as needed[^2] The software will display sharpness/DOI values and may provide visual representations of the reflected image quality. ### Changing DOI and Sharpness To improve DOI and sharpness of a surface: 1. Enhance surface smoothness through finer polishing or sanding techniques 2. Optimize coating formulations to promote better leveling and flow 3. Improve application methods to minimize orange peel and other texture issues 4. Ensure proper curing conditions to allow coatings to level optimally 5. Use high-quality basecoats or primers to create a smoother foundation 6. For plastic parts, optimize molding conditions to reduce surface defects 7. Consider using flow additives in coatings to promote better leveling Remember that changes to improve sharpness/DOI may affect other surface properties, so consider the overall impact on the product's appearance and performance[^1]. Start writing your section content here. --- # Gloss Measurement Advice > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Tips include, when to use Gloss or Visual Gloss, sensor placement and calibration advice. ### Measurement Advice Make sure the instrument is placed flat on the surface. Regularly calibrate the instrument, once per day is recommended. [Calibrating an Instrument in AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-calibrating-an-instrument-in-ae.md) For curved surfaces use the curved surface measurement adapter and interactive measurement feature. [Curved Surfaces & Non-Contact Measurement](rhopoint-aesthetix-curved-surfaces-non-contact-measurement.md) ### Measurement Advice—Curved Surfaces It is not advisable to measure curved surfaces with a radius of <0.5m with the standard gloss adaptor setup. The instrument is supplied with a curved surface/small parts adaptor which reduces the measurement spot to 2x4 mm- this makes it suitable for curved surfaces. [How to Measure Curved Surfaces](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-surface-brilliance-how-to-measure-curved-surfaces.md) ### Measurement Advice—Complex Parts For complex shapes or small radius parts it is difficult to correctly position the instrument during measurement - for best results - Measure non-contact using measurement stand or cobot. - Use the live positioning feedback to ensure correct positioning. - For highly reproducible results create 3D printed jigs to position the part in the correct position. ### Measurement Advice—Small Areas It is possible to measure small areas using curved surface/small parts adaptor use the interactive measurement feature to correctly position the instrument before measuring. ### Standard Gloss compared to Visual Gloss - Standard Gloss is does not match customer perception when comparing different coloured materials. - Gloss measurement alone does not detect surface effects that reduce the appearance quality of high gloss materials- such as Haze, Orange Peel and poor sharpness. ### Measurement tip-When to measure with Standard Gloss Standard gloss measurement is Important for quality control of materials with existing specifications, Aesthetix standard gloss measurements are fully compliant with ISO and ASTM international norms. Backward compatibility with customers instruments- Aesthetix 60 degree gloss values are perfectly correlated to those supplied by Rhopoint IQ or NG glossmeters or BYK Micro Gloss instruments. When a quantitative measurement of light reflection is required. For Gloss measurements that better correlate with perception use VISUAL GLOSS. For high gloss surfaces- Haze, Sharpness and Waviness are often superior predictors of surface quality than Gloss measurement. ### Measurement tip-When Standard Gloss is important Backwards compatibility with existing measurements : Standard gloss measurements are fully compliant with ISO and ASTM international norms. Regulatory and Technical Specifications: Many industries have defined standards for gloss levels that need to be met. In such cases, using a glossmeter ensures compliance with these technical specifications. --- # How to Measure Curved Surfaces > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Measuring the relfected atributes of curved surfaces is challenging (or impossible) with a standard glossmeter. The Rhopoint Aesthetix addresses these issues with its advanced optical design, optional small measurement beam and interactive measurement feature. ### **Preparation** 1. **Adaptor Selection** - Replace the standard flat surface adaptor with the curved surface/small parts adaptor, Novo-Curve Adaptor or custom 3D printed Jig. This adaptor reduces the beam size, making it suitable for curved surfaces. [Aesthetix removeable adaptors and jigs](rhopoint-aesthetix-curved-surfaces-non-contact-measurement.md) - To attach the adaptor: - Remove the standard adaptor by pulling it off (magnetically attached). - Attach the curved surface adaptor securely in its place. 2. **Calibration** - Recalibrate the instrument after changing adaptors to ensure accurate measurements. Use the supplied calibration tile certified to meet traceability standards. 3. **Positioning Tools (Optional)** - For repeatable measurements on small or complex parts, use bespoke 3D-printed jigs or a laboratory stand. These tools help maintain consistent positioning during measurement. --- ### **Measurement Procedure** #### **Using the Curved Surface Adaptor** 1. **Instrument Placement* - Use the interactive measurement feature to ensure that the measurement beam is centred on the reflection image. Misalignment can lead to inaccurate results. [How to measure Surface Brilliance](rhopoint-appearance-elements-using-aesthetix-with-ae-aesthetix-modules-surface-brilliance-how-to-measure-surface-brilliance.md) 2. **Measurement Execution* - Press the measurement button once alignment is confirmed. The Aesthetix will capture data for gloss, haze, DOI, and other parameters simultaneously. #### **Non-Contact Measurement (Optional)** For fragile or delicate surfaces: 1. Mount the Aesthetix on a height-adjustable stand or integrate it into a COBOT system. Ensure that the focal distance is maintained at 10 mm ± 0.5 mm from the target surface. 2. Follow steps for live alignment and execute measurements as described above. --- ### **Tips for Accurate Measurement** - Avoid measuring surfaces with a radius smaller than 0.5 m using standard adaptors; always use the curved surface adaptor for such cases. - For highly complex shapes, consider non-contact measurement methods combined with custom jigs or COBOT systems for precise alignment. - Regularly calibrate the instrument to maintain accuracy, especially after changing adaptors or environmental conditions. ### **Applications** The Rhopoint Aesthetix excels in industries requiring precision appearance control of curved components, such as: - Automotive (e.g., chrome trims, high-gloss paint finishes) - Medical devices (e.g., orthopedic implants) - Consumer electronics (e.g., buttons, casings) - Pharmaceuticals and confectionery (e.g., pills, candy coatings). --- By following these steps and leveraging its advanced features, you can achieve reliable and repeatable measurements of curved surfaces with your Rhopoint Aesthetix instrument. --- # How to measure Surface Brilliance > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The measurement button is used to start single or multiple measurement that are sent directly to the table. 1. Calibrate the sensor 2. To access the multiple readings feature, right click on the measurement button. 3. Press the measurement button to start. ![image description|80](../_images/1768553956447-1765814078567-Measurement-button.png) ### How to measure Surface Brilliances on surfaces using the interactive measurement feature The interactive measurement function is a "live" view of the sample surface. It is used to identify particular areas of interest when measuring surface brilliance. ### Measurement Procedure 1. Ensure the sensor is calibrated. 2. Press the button (1) to activate the interactive measurement feature. ![Interactive button|80](../_images/1768553589939-1754310729325-Interactive-button.png) ![Gloss interpretation](../_images/1768553596817-1754310849676-gloss-interpretation-2.png) 3. Use the auto-exposure button ( A+/) to optimise the camera exposure for the surface's reflectivity. 4. Manually adjust exposure if needed using the slider. 5. The red dashed area on the live display indicates the target measurement zone for the gloss sensor gloss. 6. If measuring a curved or uneven surface ensure the gloss reflection (3) is centered in the red dashed box (2) by manually adjusting the orientation of the sample or sensor. 7. To measure the gloss of a specific area on the surface move the sensor until the required area is covered by the correct red ellipse (4 & 5). > [!info] Adjusting the exposure settings in the preview screen do not affect measurements. The reflected gloss image on this high gloss coating is intense and sharp & positioned centrally for an accurate gloss measurement. The surface image shows the area on the surface where the gloss is measured (4- measurement area for standard gloss adaptor & 5- Small area/ curved surface adaptor) > [!info] Appearance Elements automatically corrects for minor sample misalignment, if the gloss peak is within the central region (6) gloss measurement will be accurate. ![Gloss interpretation](../_images/1768553603928-1754310954090-gloss-interpretation-1.png) The gloss peak for matt and semi-gloss surfaces is less distinct, for alignment purposes ensure the brightest part of the image is within the red square (2). Matt surfaces will reflect a image without a peak, ensure the red dashed box on the camera sensor sensor is evenly lit before taking a measurement. --- # Interpreting Gloss > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### Gloss Values and Their Meaning Gloss is measured in Gloss Units (GU). Here are some typical gloss values for different materials: |Material|60-Degree Gloss Value| |:--|:--| |Automotive Clearcoat|85-95 GU| |Semi-Gloss Paint|50-75 GU| |Satin Paint|25-35 GU| |Matte Paint|5-15 GU| |Polished Metals|300-950 GU| |Perfect Mirror|1000 GU| Higher values indicate a more reflective, glossier surface. ### Visualising Gloss in Appearance Elements ### How to Change Surface Gloss To change the gloss of a surface: 1. **Surface Texture**: Smoother surfaces generally have higher gloss. Polishing or sanding can increase gloss, while roughening the surface can decrease it. 2. **Coating Formulation**: For coated surfaces, adjust the refractive index of the coating. Higher refractive index materials tend to be glossier. 3. **Pigmentation**: For paints, the type and amount of pigments can affect gloss. Generally, fewer pigments result in higher gloss. 4. **Application Method**: The way a coating is applied can impact gloss. Spray application often yields higher gloss than brush application. 5. **Curing Conditions**: For certain coatings, the curing process can affect final gloss. Proper curing conditions are essential for achieving desired gloss levels. 6. **Substrate**: The underlying material can influence gloss. A smoother substrate often results in a glossier finish. Remember that changing gloss may affect other surface properties, so consider the overall impact on the product's performance and appearance. --- # Interpreting MC Michelson Contrast Haze > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. Haze refers to the scattering of light by a surface that causes a reduction in the contrast of a reflected image. It results in a milky appearance which can reducing the perceived depth of the finish ### Michelson Contrast Haze- MC H (HU) The MC H parameter, or Michelson Contrast Haze, in the Rhopoint Aesthetix is a haze metric based on Michelson contrast. [Michelson Contrast Haze MCH](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-michelson-contrast-haze-mch.md) It quantifies the difference between the luminance of the specular highlight and the adjacent off-specular regions. This method provides insights into how surface microstructure affects visual haze, which traditional haze measurements may overlook. The MC H parameter, or Michelson Contrast Haze, in the Rhopoint Aesthetix is a haze metric based on Michelson contrast. It quantifies the difference between the luminance of the specular highlight and the adjacent off-specular regions. This method provides insights into how surface microstructure affects visual haze, which traditional haze measurements may overlook. --- # Surface Brilliance parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. | Parameter | Description | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | 60° Gloss | Conventional 60° gloss value indicating how much light is reflected in the specular direction. | | Visual Gloss | Perception-based gloss scale that predicts how bright and glossy the surface appears to the human eye. | | Haze and Compensated Haze | Measures light scatter around the main reflection that causes a milky halo and reduces the depth of finish for high gloss coatings. | | Michelson Contrast Haze MCH | A visual haze metric that quantifies the loss of contrast between the specular highlight and adjacent regions using Michelson contrast, directly reflecting how hazy and sharp the surface appears to the eye | | Visual Haze | Perception-based haze metrics that describe how hazy the surface looks under different viewing conditions. | | DOI Distinctness of Image | Quantifies the distinctness of image in the reflection. | | Sharpness | Quantifies the sharpness and edge definition in the reflection; high values mean crisp, mirror-like images. | | Waviness | Describes orange peel and surface undulations that distort reflected images over larger spatial scales. | | RGB colour | Captures colour information (red, green, blue channels) from the surface image for basic colour and appearance tracking. | --- # Surface Haze Measurement Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### What is Haze? Haze refers to the scattering of light by a surface that causes a reduction in the contrast of a reflected image. It results in a milky appearance which can reduce the perceived depth and clarity of a finish. Haze is often caused by microscopic surface irregularities, contaminants, coating defects, or subsurface imperfections that scatter light in various directions. ### How Aesthetix Measures Haze The Aesthetix measures haze using an advanced imaging technique: 1. It captures a high-dynamic-range (HDR) image of the surface reflection 2. The system analyzes the light distribution around the main specular reflection 3. It quantifies the amount of scattered light in specific angular regions This method allows for a more comprehensive assessment of haze compared to traditional haze meters. ### Haze Metrics Provided by Aesthetix The Aesthetix provides several haze-related metrics: ### What is Haze? Haze refers to the scattering of light by a surface that causes a reduction in the contrast of a reflected image. It results in a milky appearance which can reduce the perceived depth and clarity of a finish. Haze is often caused by microscopic surface irregularities, contaminants, coating defects, or subsurface imperfections that scatter light in various directions. ### How Aesthetix Measures Haze The Aesthetix measures haze using an advanced imaging technique: 1. It captures a high-dynamic-range (HDR) image of the surface reflection 2. The system analyzes the light distribution around the main specular reflection 3. It quantifies the amount of scattered light in specific angular regions This method allows for a more comprehensive assessment of haze compared to traditional haze meters. ### Haze Metrics Provided by Aesthetix The Aesthetix provides several haze-related metrics: 1. LogH (LogHaze): Logarithmic haze value in logHU 2. LogH C: Logarithmic haze with background compensation in logHU 3. Haze C: Haze with background compensation in HU 4. MC H (Contrast Haze): Calibrated contrast haze value in HU 5. Visual Haze Indoors: Visual haze value for indoor viewing conditions in VHU 6. Visual Haze Outside: Visual haze value for outdoor viewing conditions in VHU - [Haze and Compensated Haze](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-haze-and-compensated-haze.md) - [Michelson Contrast Haze MCH](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-michelson-contrast-haze-mch.md) - [Visual Haze](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-visual-haze.md) #### Comparison and Usage - LogH and LogH C provide logarithmic scales, which can be useful for materials with a wide range of haze values. - Haze C and MC H offer linear scales with background compensation, providing more accurate results for coloured or textured surfaces. - Visual Haze metrics (Indoors and Outside) are perception-based measurements that correlate closely with human observation under different lighting conditions. For most applications, Visual Haze metrics are recommended as they best represent how haze is perceived by human observers. Use Visual Haze Indoors for products primarily viewed indoors, and Visual Haze Outside for products exposed to outdoor lighting. For technical or research applications where comparison to traditional haze measurements is needed, LogH or Haze C may be more appropriate. ### Visualizing Haze in Appearance Elements ### Altering Surface Haze To alter the haze of a surface: 1. Surface Polishing: Fine polishing can reduce surface irregularities and decrease haze. 2. Coating Formulation: Adjust the coating formula to include additives that promote smoother surface formation or reduce micro-texture. 3. Application Technique: Optimize spray patterns, drying conditions, and curing processes to minimize surface irregularities during coating application. 4. Surface Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove contaminants that may contribute to haze. 5. Substrate Preparation: Ensure the underlying substrate is smooth and free of defects that could telegraph through the coating. 6. Post-Treatment: For some materials, post-application treatments like heat or UV curing can help reduce haze by promoting better surface levelling. 7. Environmental Control: Control humidity and temperature during application and curing to prevent issues like blushing that can increase haze. Remember that altering haze may affect other surface properties, so consider the overall impact on the product's appearance and performance when making changes. 1. Haze : Logarithmic haze value in logHU 2. LogH C: Logarithmic haze with background compensation in logHU 3. Haze C: Haze with background compensation in HU 4. MC H (Contrast Haze): Calibrated contrast haze value in HU 5. Visual Haze Indoors: Visual haze value for indoor viewing conditions in VHU 6. Visual Haze Outside: Visual haze value for outdoor viewing conditions in VHU #### Comparison and Usage - LogH and LogH C provide logarithmic scales, which can be useful for materials with a wide range of haze values. - Haze C and MC H offer linear scales with background compensation, providing more accurate results for coloured or textured surfaces. - Visual Haze metrics (Indoors and Outside) are perception-based measurements that correlate closely with human observation under different lighting conditions. For most applications, Visual Haze metrics are recommended as they best represent how haze is perceived by human observers. Use Visual Haze Indoors for products primarily viewed indoors, and Visual Haze Outside for products exposed to outdoor lighting. For technical or research applications where comparison to traditional haze measurements is needed, LogH or Haze C may be more appropriate. ### Visualizing Haze in Appearance Elements ### Altering Surface Haze To alter the haze of a surface: 1. Surface Polishing: Fine polishing can reduce surface irregularities and decrease haze. 2. Coating Formulation: Adjust the coating formula to include additives that promote smoother surface formation or reduce micro-texture. 3. Application Technique: Optimize spray patterns, drying conditions, and curing processes to minimize surface irregularities during coating application. 4. Surface Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove contaminants that may contribute to haze. 5. Substrate Preparation: Ensure the underlying substrate is smooth and free of defects that could telegraph through the coating. 6. Post-Treatment: For some materials, post-application treatments like heat or UV curing can help reduce haze by promoting better surface leveling. 7. Environmental Control: Control humidity and temperature during application and curing to prevent issues like blushing that can increase haze. Remember that altering haze may affect other surface properties, so consider the overall impact on the product's appearance and performance when making changes. --- # Visual Gloss - for enhanced correlation with human perception > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### When to use Visual Gloss GU compared to Standard Gloss GU Visual gloss is better suited for applications where human perception is crucial, standard gloss is useful when compliance to a standard is key or measurements need to match historic specifications. Balancing between these two methods can be essential depending on the specific requirements of the project or product [de/Glossary of measurement parameters/60° Gloss (Aesthetix)](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-60-gloss-aesthetix.md) [Visual Gloss](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-visual-gloss.md) ### Measurement tip-When Visual Gloss is important Subjective Perception is Key: If the goal is to understand how people perceive the glossiness of a surface under real-world conditions, VG is more appropriate. This is crucial in industries where the aesthetic and visual appeal are critical, such as in automotive finishes, furniture, consumer electronics, and interior design. Both measurements are visible simultaneously in Rhopoint Appearance Elements software. Product Development and Marketing: When developing products where the consumer's perception influences their decision to purchase, VG can provide insights into how potential buyers might view the product under typical use conditions. Quality Control: If the product quality is judged visually by consumers, VG assessments can help ensure consistency in how products are perceived in the marketplace. --- # Visual Haze - predict haze visibility in different viewing environments > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. NEW Visual Haze measurement is more sensitive and more consistent with human perception because it accounts for illumination conditions and background paint colour. Visual haze is calculated considering the luminosity of the background colour and the luminosity of the near specular reflection (Haze). Two values are provided to account Haze visibility in two different viewing conditions, indoor viewing compared to outdoor viewing in strong sunlight. [Visual Haze](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-visual-haze.md) ![Two panels visual haze](../_images/1770383259317-1756895955798-two-panels-visual-haze.png) Two panels with identical reflective properties but Haziness is not visible on the white material. Visual Haze records the perceived haziness. > [!info] High levels of technical haze (LogH C) on low contrast colours are not visible but may cause the material to fall outside of specification. Visual Haze matches human perception and used to avoid unnecessary material rejections and over processing. ### Visual Haze VH Indoor Vhin and Visual Haze Outdoor Vhout Haze effects are amplified in strong sunlight- swirls whirls and holograms which are not visible in indoor conditions are prominent when illuminated by a high intensity light-source. ![Surface defects not detected](../_images/1770383295052-1756896165898-surface-defects-not-detected-loghc.png) Surface Defects which are not detected by technical haze (LogH C) are very visible in strong sunlight. The Aesthetix can predict the visibility of haze, scratches and polishing marks in workshop and sunny outdoor conditions. |Conditions|Surface illumination|Specular Illumination| |---|---|---|---| |VHin|Standard indoor lighting|0.5k Lux|25k cd/m2| |VHout|Sunny day- clear sky|100k Lux|1.6m cd/m2| > [!info] Coatings or materials which are to be viewed in outdoor conditions should be assessed using the Visual Haze Outdoor (Vhod) parameter- which will quantify the visibility of unwanted haziness in all conditions, avoiding customer dissatisfaction and material re-work. |Haze|Surface|Description/Perception| |---|---|---| |<50 Hu (Indoor or outdoor)|High Quality Surface|Almost perfect surface- haze not visible under normal viewing conditions.| |50-100|Ultra Low Haze Surface|Good depth of finish- Barely visible halo around reflected light sources.| |100-250|Visible Haze|Depth of finish is compromised- swirls and polishing marks are visible| |250-300|Hazy Surface|Poor quality finish| |300-500|Poor Quality Surface|Prominent halos, holograms or polish marks. Poor depth of finish| --- # Waviness Measurement Guide > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### What is Waviness? Waviness refers to gentle undulations or waves visible on a surface that is meant to be smooth. In coated surfaces, this effect is often called "orange peel" because the texture resembles the skin of an orange. Waviness is an optical effect caused by large structures (0.1-10mm) on the surface of the material. For high gloss finishes, excessive waviness reduces the perceived quality by disrupting the uniformity and clarity of reflected images. Waviness is a key parameter when observers judge the appearance quality of high gloss coatings. A smoother, low waviness coating is perceived as higher quality compared to a similar surface with more surface texture (higher waviness). ### How Aesthetix Measures Waviness The Aesthetix measures waviness by quantifying the distortion in a 25mm straight line reflected in the material surface. ### Waviness Values and Their Meaning The Aesthetix waviness scale is highly correlated to Rhopoint TAMS waviness - a measurement parameter derived from multiple human perception trials. The value quantifies the visual impact of orange peel observed in high gloss coatings at a viewing distance of 1.5m. This value has been proven effective for quantifying orange peel in sectors such as automotive, yacht Coatings, powder coatings and high quality furniture. [Waviness (Aesthetix)](glossary-of-measurement-parameters-waviness-aesthetix.md) ### Waviness values and their meanings: - 2 WU: Piano Finish - Very smooth with no visible waviness. Imparts a feeling of very high quality. - 2-5 WU: Low orange peel - Smooth finish, orange peel is barely visible with a good or neutral impact on judgement of surface finish. - 5-10 WU: Standard Orange Peel - Surface with moderate orange-peel which is visible and is a factor when judging finish quality, especially on high contrast colors (black). - 10-15 WU: High Orange peel - Surface with prominent orange peel which has a negative impact on surface quality judgement. ### Changing the Waviness of a Surface To change the waviness of a surface: 1. Improve Application Technique: Proper spraying distance, angle, and technique can reduce uneven paint distribution that leads to orange peel. 2. Adjust Paint Viscosity: Use paint with the correct viscosity for better flow and leveling, reducing bumpy finishes. 3. Control Environmental Factors: Maintain appropriate humidity and temperature during application and drying to prevent uneven drying that can cause orange peel. 4. Enhance Surface Preparation: Adequate sanding and cleaning of the surface before painting can minimize imperfections that contribute to waviness. 5. Allow Proper Curing Time: Sufficient drying time between coats can result in a more even surface texture. 6. Optimize Equipment Settings: Use the correct nozzle size and pressure settings on spray guns for proper paint atomization. 7. Address Substrate Issues: Improve the underlying material quality, as texture in the substrate can telegraph through the coating layers, causing visible orange peel[^1]. Remember that changing waviness may affect other surface properties, so consider the overall impact on the product's appearance and performance when making adjustments. --- # Texture Module Overview > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The Rhopoint **Aesthetix Texture Module** provides objective analysis of the surface characteristics critical to visual perception and quality control for textured surfaces. Textured surfaces are those with irregular or patterned finishes, differing from smooth or flat surfaces. These textures can be natural or manufactured and include features like ridges, grooves, bumps, or grains that affect the material's tactile and visual properties. Examples include: Leather-like Surfaces: Found in automotive interiors and furniture, mimicking natural leather. Coated Surfaces: Textured paint or powder coated surfaces on metal or plastic, influencing appearance and feel. Plastic pars: Moulded textures in consumer electronics and automotive components for grip and aesthetics Textured surfaces are crucial in many industries for their impact on product aesthetics, functionality, and consumer perception, such as automotive, powder coating and leather manufacture, ensuring enhanced quality control, product development, and consistency across global supply chains. Using Aesthetix, the user can reduce subjective errors associated with visual inspection, ensuring measured surfaces have the required perceived quality and good harmony with adjacent parts. ### Measurement Method RGB colour, gloss, reflectivity, and 3D topography measurements are combined into a single measurement, delivering precise and repeatable results. The Aesthetix uses utilizes photometric stereo techniques to estimate surface normals and calculate 3D topography, providing a detailed height map of the surface. A watershed algorithm is then applied to segment the topography into cells, allowing for the analysis of cell size and area. 60° gloss is measured and reported, fully compliant with international norms ASTM D523 & ISO 2813. RGB colour is measured using 45°:0° geometry and the reported values are calculated using the average RGB pixel value of the area captured by the observer camera. Reflectance parameters are calculated using the gloss camera & reflectance differences measured using the observer camera. ### Texture feature properties (watershed methodology) #### Watershed Overview To separate features on the surface, a so-called “watershed algorithm” is applied to the topographic height map. A flooding analogy can be used to understand the watershed principle. The measured topographical map can be treated like a landscape of hills and valleys. When water is poured into the landscape, and the water level rises, the valleys (which are the local minima of the gradient image) start filling up with water, separating the hills as islands (“features”). When water from two different valleys meet and merge, a dam (or watershed line) is constructed to prevent merging. These watershed lines effectively become the boundaries between different regions in the image. The result is a segmented image where each region is separated by watershed lines, corresponding to different features within the surface. ![Topographical height map](../_images/1768553889275-1765872897972-watershed-cells.png) **Topographical height map of a surface with watershed analysis applied** Control over how the watershed lines are constructed in Appearance Elements is given in the “Feature Properties” settings. --- # Adjusting Texture Module User Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### Adjusting the Feature Properties (Watershed parameters) #### Manual Adjustment of the Feature separation 1. **Visual Inspection** Start by visually inspecting the height image and the initial segmentation results by using the default settings _(Default: Feature separation: 3px, Feature selection: 70%)_. ![image description](../_images/1768553716485-1765814390016-watershed-map-with-selection.jpg) _In the image above, the default settings have not segmented the whole map successfully- by visual inspection we can see that some features are not separated. In this example features are separated by low areas (valleys) and represent distinct high areas or hill._ 2. **Adjust Thresholds** Modify the watershed parameters in “Feature properties” and observe the effect on the feature detection. Adjust Feature properties and test different values, then evaluate their impact on the segmentation. #### Feature Separation (Watershed Morphology) This parameter increases the gap between the found features (hills) by the separation value (number of pixels) Increasing the amount of Pixels used will separate some touching features, and thus increase the number of detected features (hills). > [!info] Note that if the value is too high smaller features (hills) can be completely eroded and will no longer be detected. #### Feature Selection (Watershed Selection Percentage) This value from 0% to 100% determines which size of features (hills) are included in the evaluation after separation. While increasing this number will exclude smaller unwanted features, it should be reduced for smaller shapes. In the analysis the watershed algorithm has not separated all the features (hills)- the feature separation parameter “Feature selection” should be increased. #### Watershed parameter adjustment To adjust the areas selected by the watershed. - Click the settings button on the right side menu. - Click the plus button to expand “Feature properties”. ![image description](../_images/1768553724904-1765814434439-feature-properties-settings.png) Adjust “Feature Separation” (watershed morphology) and “Feature Selection” (Watershed Selection Percent) parameters. - Press "Set" button. - Press "Recalculate last" button. Increased Feature Separation value will now correctly analyse the shapes. |!![image description](../_images/1768553755408-1765814505396-feature-separation-before.png)|!![image description](../_images/1768553767781-1765814538985-feature-separation-after.png)| |---|---| |Before|After| #### Invert feature map algorithm Standard textures and Leather are described by hills which are spatially separated by valleys. Some technical textures, however, form the actual texture by hills (along their maxima). For these textures, the standard algorithm will not yield a good or none result, in which case the algorithm has to be “inverted”. When this happens, please use the “Invert Feature Map” setting, set and recalculate. Example: the measurement of a technical laser texture does not yield any reasonable results, no matter what is set up in feature selection. ![image description](../_images/1768553735911-1765814454157-invert-feature-before.png) After selection of “Invert Feature Map” and setting appropriate values, the results become reasonable. ![image description](../_images/1768553747025-1765814470569-invert-feature-after.png) #### Cutting the area of interest For some applications it might be advisable that the area of interest is cut to a smaller or even larger region than the default (10.00mmx10.00mm), e.g., for steel or metallized surfaces. This helpful in those cases were there are damages or over illumination due to material albedo at the edges. In this case, you cut to a more specific region, defining an area by width and height (X and Y) distance, around the centre point of the image (0/0). For example, Standard setup 10.00mmx10.00mm, from centre point 5.00mm to the left and to the right, as well as 5.00mm up and 5.00mm down. ![image description](../_images/1768553806809-1765872778305-texture-preview-1425-settings.png) Cut to 10x10, or 5mm in all directions: enter 10mm Width and Height, “Set” and “Recalculate last”. ![image description](../_images/1768553820360-1765872829682-heightmap-sa-rough.png) > [!info] This has a direct influence on the texture parameters except gloss, so be careful and check your results. --- # Interpreting Surface Texture Results > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ### How Does Aesthetix Measure Surface Texture? The Aesthetix uses advanced optical and computational techniques to measure surface texture. It employs **photometric stereo imaging** to estimate surface normals and create detailed 3D topographical maps. These maps represent the height variations across the surface, allowing precise analysis of texture features. The system uses a **watershed algorithm** to segment the surface into distinct cells (hills and valleys), enabling the quantification of structural features such as height, size, and distribution. Key steps in the measurement process: 1. **Image Capture**: The system captures multiple images under different lighting conditions to calculate surface normals. 2. **3D Topography**: A height map is generated to represent the vertical variations of the surface. 3. **Segmentation**: The watershed algorithm separates features into cells, identifying hills, valleys, and their boundaries. 4. **Analysis**: Metrics such as roughness, cell amplitude, cell size, and reflectivity are calculated from the segmented data. ### Measurements Provided by Aesthetix for Surface Texture and Reflectivity The Aesthetix provides a comprehensive set of metrics to describe surface texture and reflectivity: #### Texture Metrics - **Sa (Roughness)**: Standard deviation of amplitude (height variations) across the surface. - **Ca (Cell Amplitude)**: Average height difference between hills and valleys, measured in perceived microns (p-µm). - **Cn (Cell Number)**: Total number of distinct cells or features within the measurement area. - **Cs (Cell Size)**: Includes mean, minimum, maximum, and standard deviation of cell sizes (mm²). - **Hs (Hill Size)**: Average cross-sectional area of elevated features (mm²). #### Reflectivity Metrics - **R (Reflectivity)**: Average reflectivity value of the surface in arbitrary units. - **RC (Reflective Contrast)**: Difference in reflectivity between hills and valleys. - **RH/RV**: Reflectivity values specific to hills and valleys. #### Comparison and Application - Use **Sa** for general roughness analysis when evaluating overall surface smoothness. - Select **Ca** for assessing depth or relief of textures that influence tactile or visual perception. - Use **Cn** and **Cs** for understanding feature density and uniformity, critical for textured coatings or molded parts. - Reflectivity metrics like **RC** are ideal for determining how texture impacts visual contrast or glossiness. Choose metrics based on your application: - For functional surfaces requiring uniformity (e.g., automotive interiors), focus on **Cn**, **Cs**, and **RC**. - For aesthetic surfaces where depth or relief matters (e.g., leather-like finishes), prioritize **Ca** and **Sa**. ### Visualizing Surface Texture Using Appearance Elements The Rhopoint Appearance Elements software enables users to visualize and analyze surface texture in detail. Follow these steps to effectively examine the surface's 3D structure, depth, and features: 1. **Open the 3D View in the Left Window**: - Navigate to the left-hand panel of the software and select the "3D View" tab. - The surface's topographical map will be displayed as a 3D model, color-coded to represent height variations. - Use the mouse or navigation tools to rotate, zoom, and pan the 3D map for a comprehensive view of the surface. 2. **Use the Profile Tool in the Map Window**: - Switch to the "Map View" in the central window to view a 2D representation of the surface's height map. - Select the "Profile Tool" (typically represented by a line icon). - Click and drag across the map to draw a line indicating your region of interest. This line will serve as a cross-section for further analysis. 3. **Open the Profile View in the Right Window**: - Navigate to the right-hand panel and select the "Profile View" tab. - The profile view will display a cross-sectional graph of the surface along the drawn line, showing height variations in **perceived microns (p-µm)**. - Peaks represent hills or elevated areas, while valleys indicate depressions or lower regions on the surface. 4. **Analyze Cell Size Using the Features Window**: - Open the "Features Window" in the right-hand panel. - This window provides detailed information about identified surface features, including hills, valleys, and cells segmented by a watershed algorithm. - Metrics such as cell size (mean, minimum, maximum), cell amplitude (height differences), and cell number are displayed. These values help evaluate texture uniformity, density, and depth. 5. **Adjust Visualization Settings**: - Modify watershed parameters (e.g., feature separation or selection) in the settings menu to refine feature detection and segmentation. - Use color scales or visual overlays to enhance specific areas of interest. By combining these tools, you can gain a detailed understanding of your surface's texture, including its depth, uniformity, and structural features. This visualization process is essential for quality control, product development, and ensuring consistency across manufacturing processes. ### Adjusting Surface Texture or Reflectivity To modify surface texture: 1. **Surface Preparation**: - Sanding or polishing can reduce roughness (**Sa**) and improve smoothness. - Texturing processes like embossing or chemical etching can enhance relief (**Ca**) or create specific patterns. 2. **Tool Design or Wear**: - Cell size is fixed during tool design and manufacture, Reflectivity and cell depth can be effected by tool wear. (**Cn**, **Cs**) and reflectivity (**R**, **RC**). By selecting appropriate processes based on Aesthetix measurements, you can achieve desired aesthetic or functional outcomes while maintaining consistency across production batches. --- # Texture Module Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. |Index|Name / Title|Unit|Description| |---|---|---|---| |60°|60° Gloss|GU|Conventional 60° gloss value of the textured area, indicating overall specular reflectance level.| |Sa Rough|Areal Surface Roughness|p‑µm|Average height variation over the measured area using unfiltered topographical data, expressed in perceived microns.| |Ca|Cell Amplitude|p‑µm|Average height of texture “cells” (features) relative to the local mean plane.| |Cn|Cell Number|–|Total number of detected texture cells within the analysed area.| |Cs|Mean Cell Size|p‑µm|Average lateral size of the detected texture cells.| |CsMin|Minimum Cell Size|p‑µm|Smallest detected cell size within the measurement area.| |CsMax|Maximum Cell Size|p‑µm|Largest detected cell size within the measurement area.| |CsDev|Cell Size Standard Deviation|p‑µm|Variation (spread) of cell sizes, indicating how uniform the texture features are.| |Hs|Hill Size|p‑µm|Typical size of raised “hill” features on the surface.| |F|Fill Factor|–|Fraction of the area occupied by detected texture cells or hills.| |R|Reflectivity|–|Average reflectivity level of the textured surface region.| |RC|Reflective Contrast|–|Difference in reflectivity between texture features and surrounding areas.| |RV|Reflectivity in Valleys|–|Reflectivity associated with valley (low) regions of the texture.| |RH|Reflectivity on Hills|–|Reflectivity associated with hill (high) regions of the texture.| |Fsep|Feature Separation|µm|Records the user setting for Feature Seperation parameter| |Fsel|Feature Selecttion|%tage|Records the user setting for Feature Selection parameter analysis.| |FThld|Feature Threshold|-1 to +1|Records the user setting for Feature Threshold parameter analysis.| |R (RGB)|Red RGB Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average red-channel surface colour within the textured area.| |G (RGB)|Green RGB Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average green-channel surface colour within the textured area.| |B (RGB)|Blue RGB Colour|Intensity (0–255)|Average blue-channel surface colour within the textured area.| Topographical Graph Scale- Perceived Microns [pµm] --- # Using TAMS with AE > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ## Install Appearance Elements [Install AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-install-ae.md) ## Connect the TAMS to AE The Aesthetix must be connected to an available USB 3.0 port on your PC, Laptop or Windows Tablet. [Connect an Instruments to AE](rhopoint-appearance-elements-connect-an-instrument-to-ae.md) --- # TAMS Modules > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. ![image description](../_images/1773151922485-sJ3RAR4d4W.png) ## TAMS modules overview Appearance Elements offers two TAMS modules: **TAMS HG** for high‑gloss, appearance‑critical surfaces and **TAMS LG** for low‑ to mid‑gloss, structure‑driven surfaces. Both use the same batching, statistics and reporting tools, but expose different parameters. The available modules are determined by the licenses installed in the connected TAMS. ## TAMS HG – High Gloss module TAMS HG is used for clearcoats and other high‑gloss finishes where visual impression and matching between parts matter most. It reports Contrast, Sharpness, Waviness and Dimension, plus perception‑based Quality (Q) and Harmony (H) indices, with direct access to the underlying reflection images in the AE data table. ## TAMS LG – Low Gloss module TAMS LG is used for raw materials, E‑coat, primers and matt finishes, where surface structure and roughness dominate. It focuses on full‑field topography and waviness, providing optical roughness–style parameters from TAMS 3D maps so you can track how each process step changes the surface and relates to final appearance. --- # TAMS High Gloss > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. The TAMS HG (High Gloss) module provides a **complete, perception‑based evaluation of clear‑coat and other high‑gloss surfaces** by combining Contrast, Sharpness, Waviness and Dimension into the Quality (Q) and Harmony (H) indices. It is designed to show how smooth, deep and consistent a finish appears to the human eye, going far beyond simple gloss readings. ## Purpose of this module Quantify all key contributors to high‑gloss appearance, including contrast (colour impact), image sharpness, orange peel/waviness and dominant texture size on coated or polished surfaces. Provide perception‑aligned Quality and Harmony metrics that match measured values to what people actually see, reducing disagreements between plants, suppliers and OEM appearance engineers. ## Where this module can be used High‑gloss exterior and interior coatings in automotive and commercial vehicles, including body panels, bumpers, mirrors and add‑on parts. Other reflective products such as decorative metals, plastics, appliances and consumer goods where premium, uniform appearance across parts or assemblies is critical. ## What this module measures Contrast, Sharpness, Waviness and Dimension: Core TAMS parameters describing colour‑dependent impact, clarity of reflections, orange peel strength and dominant texture scale at showroom distance. Quality (Q) and Harmony (H): Single‑number indices predicting overall appearance quality and the visual match between adjacent parts, so you can judge both individual surfaces and panel‑to‑panel consistency on a common scale. ## How to use this module In Appearance Elements, select the TAMS HG module, choose the appropriate job or batch, and configure TAMS for C‑Coat high‑gloss measurement using the required algorithm (for example CC‑TAMS‑STD). Place TAMS on a clean, representative area of the surface, take one or more measurements per part, and store the results in the chosen batch; use guided or manual job modes if you want to follow a defined measurement route around a vehicle or product. ## How to interpret the results Use Quality (Q) to judge how good the high‑gloss finish appears overall and to set pass/fail limits or targets; higher Q indicates smoother, deeper, more mirror‑like surfaces. Use Harmony (H), together with Waviness, Dimension, Contrast and Sharpness, to see whether adjacent parts match visually and to diagnose whether any mismatch is driven mainly by texture level, texture scale, colour/contrast or clarity. --- # TAMS High Gloss Appearance Parameters > [!note] Tato stránka ještě není přeložena do češtiny a zobrazuje se anglicky. TAMS High Gloss parameters describe how a smooth, reflective surface actually appears to a human observer, rather than just reporting traditional gloss or waviness values. Together they quantify image clarity, contrast, texture and panel‑to‑panel matching, so users can link measured numbers directly to visible differences in perceived quality. | Parameter | Description | | --------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Quality Q | Composite quality index (0–100) that combines contrast, sharpness, waviness into a single score describing how clean, deep and mirror-like a high gloss surface appears. | | Harmony H | Panel-to-panel matching index that quantifies how consistently different parts look to each considering differences in the amplitude of waviness and structure size. | | Contrast C | Measures the contrast between the specular highlight and background as determined by the base paint colour. | | Sharpness S | Describes the sharpness of reflected edges and fine detail; higher values indicate crisp, well-focused images that correlate with high DOI and premium perceived quality. High values indicate a hazy surface when viewed at 1.5m. | | Waviness (TAMS) W | Quantifies the visual impact of orange peel viewed at 1.5m, higher values indicate more visible texture and lower perceived smoothness. | | Dimension D | Describes the dominant wavelength of surface structure visible at a 1.5 m viewing distance, helping explain visible differences in orange peel. Low values (<2mm) indicate a surface dominated by shortwave texture, larger values (>7mm) indicate a surface dominated by longer wave texture. | | Long-Wave Texture LW | Long-wave texture index that quantifies the visual impact of large-scale undulations and flow in the surface. | |Short-Wave Texture SW | Short-wave texture index that describes finer-scale micro-structure on the surface; higher SW values mean more small-scale texture that can make reflections look grainy and reduce perceived smoothness. | | DOI (TAMS) | TAMS distinctness-of-image metric that quantifies how clearly patterns are reflected on the surface; higher DOI values correspond to sharper, less distorted images and a higher perceived finish quality. | | Gloss 20° (TAMS) | High-sensitivity 20° gloss value measured within the TAMS system, providing a conventional gloss scale for very high gloss finishes so appearance data can be linked back to existing gloss specifications. | | Rspec (TAMS) | Peak gloss value measured in the specular highlight that is sensitive to surface texture. |