Vision systems - scope
Vision systems are today an indispensable tool that can significantly improve work results or significantly reduce its costs. The scope of this subject is very wide and includes such a type of information as 1D reading and such a complex field as spectral analysis. We always try to correctly select solutions to the specifics of a given process.
We are engaged in providing comprehensive solutions required:
- barcode reading,
- 2D datamatrix code reading,
- verification of 1D and 2D imprint information,
- identification of part shape,
- identification of workpiece position,
- geometric measurements of workpieces,
- profile measurements,
- identification of color and surface texture,
- OCR reading.
What is a vision system?
From a technical point of view: a vision system is a camera + computer. The vision system, like the sense of sight in humans, is used to "acquire information about the environment." The natural continuation of acquiring information is to process it and make an appropriate decision.
Since in a vision system the carrier of information about an object is light, so either the object itself must emit the appropriate light or it must be illuminated accordingly.
Since in a vision system the carrier of information about an object is light, so either the object itself must emit the appropriate light or it must be properly illuminated.
Hence, the basic components of a vision system include:
- illuminator (if the object itself is not lit);
- lens (with filters, if any);
- camera;
- a computer with software.
The basic and most important component of an industrial vision system is the integrator`s intelligence and experience, encoded in the programs algorithm.
The indisputable advantage of a vision system is the continuity of work 24/7, without fatigue or vacation. The disadvantage is - the faithful implementation of the concept and algorithm encoded in it. Also if they are poorly refined or erroneous.
Types of industrial vision systems
- Simple cameras and information readers.
Composed of a camera and a simple processor in a single housing; some vision sensors also have a small LCD monitor installed (in a common housing).
- Smart cameras.
Composed of a camera and a computer in a single housing, usually with a resolution in the 640x480 to 1600x1200 pixel range. Such cameras run under their own operating system, and are programmed in high-level languages developed by the camera manufacturer.
The range of video functions implemented by smart cameras is wide, for some cameras even unlimited. Smart cameras can have multiple inputs and outputs, in various standards.
- Vision systems.
A system composed of cameras and a separate computer is the most difficult video system to implement, but it offers the greatest flexibility and the widest range of possibilities. In such a configuration, all camera resolutions are available, line and matrix cameras, monochrome and color with one or three matrices, in small and large housings.
Integration of the system in such a configuration requires extensive knowledge of camera technology and computer technology; you need to optimally choose the right camera, the optimal interface, a powerful computer and software with the necessary functionality, and finally you need to program and run it all;)
