Turn Analog Dials into Digital Data with Computer Vision

James Gallagher's blog post, published on November 28, 2022, explores the use of computer vision to convert analog dial readings into digital data, addressing the challenge of integrating outdated equipment with modern technology. The text outlines a process that begins with uploading and annotating video frames of pressure gauges using the Roboflow platform to train a model capable of detecting key dial features. Through object detection, the model identifies the needle tip and base, calculates the needle's angle using trigonometry, and maps it to pressure measurements. A script is developed to process video inputs, use the model's predictions to determine the pressure reading, and trigger alerts when critical thresholds are exceeded. This method is demonstrated to enhance the efficiency and safety of monitoring systems in environments where analog dials are still prevalent, offering a practical solution for digitizing legacy systems.