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2D Fast Track

This module converts a graph in image form to 2D numerical data and previews it in a separate window.

Start by loading an image from a file, clipboard or Twain (scanner, digital camera, etc.)

After loading an image this is the first place to go to calibrate the graph.  It is recommended to use the lower left intersect of the graph as the reference points for the "minimums", the right most axis for the X-maximum and the top most axis for the Y-maximum.

The program will automatically sequence through the options to speed up the calibration process. When the image is loaded the option "Set minimums" will be selected, this will be your starting point.

Steps:
  • Set minimums - Place your cursor over the bottom left intersect of the x/y axis and click (left mouse button).  If this point is not X=0 Y=0 then enter the appropriate values in the boxes X min, Y min.  These boxes will automatically turn green to let you know you have the option to enter data into them.  The option "Set X max" will automatically be selected, so proceed to the next step.
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  • Set X maximum - Place your cursor over the right most axis and click (left mouse button).  The "X max" box will turn red and ready for entry.  Enter the value of the X axis maximum.  The "Set Y max" option will now be enabled so proceed to the next step.
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  • Set Y maximum - Place your cursor over the top most axis and click (left mouse button).  The "Y max" box will turn red and ready for entry.  Enter the value of the Y axis maximum.  The "Auto" box will be enabled now.
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  • Digitize - Follow the procedures in "Auto" below then select the menu item "Run".  The image will be scanned and when complete will open a preview window to verify the results.
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    Modes:
  • Select Points - If the image is black & white or color/grey and has noise or scratches, it may be necessary to select the points manually.  Select the option box "Select Points" then move your cursor over the point you wish to digitize and click.  Continue doing this until you have sufficient number of points to recreate the original graph.  You can also use this mode by creating a 'new' image and drawing your own graph on the blank template.
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  • Auto - The autoscan will work if the image is not corrupted with scratches or noise that are of the same intensity as the graph line itself.  That is, if the graph line is solid black and you have noise or clutter on the graph (including grid lines) that are grey the scan will ignore everything but the data. Before hitting the "Scan" menu button, enter a value into the "Auto Y Value" box to establish scan margins on the Y-axis that are fully inside the Y axis lines.  You will see two red dashed horizontal lines that show you your margins immediately.  If the image is very clean and narrow lines on the Y-axis, then a value of "2" should be sufficient.  The purpose is to prevent digitizing the Y-axis line itself.  
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  • Points box - Shows the number of points digitized (found).
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