Advantages of vision sensor components
Vision sensors offer manufacturers many advantages.
- Identify features photoelectric sensors cannot
Vision sensors locate and inspect highly patterned features that other sensors can’t. - Eliminate external triggers
Vision sensors use advanced image analysis techniques to autonomously detect and inspect parts as they appear in the field of view – eliminating external triggers. This ability streamlines inspection processes and reduces reliance on additional hardware for part detection. - Inspect multiple part features
A single vision sensor can perform multiple inspection types in a target image. - Work on a smart display or PC
Operators can set up new parameters or adjust existing inspections on a PC for easy operation on the factory floor. - Optimize illumination, brightness, and image contrast
Modular vision sensors can be outfitted with flexible lighting and filter options to create better images and achieve more consistent and reliable results. - Handle misalignment and variability
Vision sensors can detect objects regardless of their speed or position on the line--no mechanical fixturing required. They also overcome imprecise part positioning using detailed image analysis to determine whether a part is present. - Easy to use
Simple development environments are designed for both new and existing users.
Vision sensor components
Vision sensors share several common components with more powerful vision systems, including lighting, lenses, image sensors, controllers, vision tools, and communications protocols. Most machine vision hardware components, such as lighting modules, sensors, and processors are available off the shelf. In many cases, they can also be purchased as an integrated system with all components in a single device.
Vision sensor hardware components
Vision sensors feature several components:
Lens
Captures the image by passing light through to the sensor
Image sensor
Converts light into a digital image which is then sent to the processor for analysis.
Vision processing tools
Process and optimize an image for analysis; review the image and extracts required information; use algorithms to run the necessary inspection and make a related decision.
Communications
A discrete I/O signal or data sent over a serial connection to a device that is either logging information or using it.
Lighting
Illuminates the part being inspected, allowing its features to stand out so they can be clearly seen by camera.