Basic Components of a Visual Inspection Machine
The purpose of a machine vision system is to inspect and detect different irregularities such as functional flaws, contaminants, and defects in products. For example, these machines can be used to perform an inspection of medicine tablets for possible flaws. Aside from this, another purpose of the machine is to verify icon, the backlight contrast, or confirm the presence of pixels. In this article, we are going to talk about the primary components of a visual inspection machine. Read on to know more.
Basic Components
Since each application is different, specific components are used accordingly. Given below are the categories that the components of the visual inspection machine fall in.
Optics and Cameras
In this type of inspection machine, one or more optics and cameras are used to photograph the components being inspected. It can be an analog or digital camera. Aside from this, the cameras can be line-scan, progressive-scan, variable-scan, RGB color, composite color or monochrome. The selection of cameras is based on the application requirement.
Lighting
We all know that cameras can take good photos without enough light. As a matter of fact, it is important to have bright light for optimal illumination of the components being photographed. Different types of lighting are used in visual inspection machines, such as fiber optic, incandescent, LED and fluorescent just to name a few.
Presence Sensor
The presence sensor is a type of device that sends alerts to the machine that the component to be inspected is on the way. As soon as the component reaches the target position, the machine vision system can take a photo of it.
Computer Processor
As the name suggests, the computer processor or CPU is a digital or PC signal processor. Typically, ruggedized computers are used because there is a lot of dirt, high temperature, and vibration in a manufacturing environment.
Frame Grabber
The role of a frame grabber is to Interface the machine camera to the CPU. Actually, it converts the analog or digital image data interview format that the computer can understand. Usually, the frame grabber is available in different configurations to support a variety of CPU and camera types.
Machine Vision Program
Again, different software programs are used to control the machine vision system. The purpose of the software program is to create and execute image data and perform their acquired infection.
Digital I/O
Also known as network actions, results of the inspection are sent to the system that controls the process of manufacturing. This is done once the inspection of the components is completed.
Usually, this process uses a network card. As an alternative, an interface board is also used.
Summary
Not all types of manufacturing processes are the same. Therefore, you may want to take your time to invest in the right type of components based on your operational needs. This is important if you want to make sure you will get accurate results. Ideally, it is better that you consult a good machine vision expert. This will help you make an informed decision.