latest Machine Vision News

VC nano 3D: First triangulation sensor with integrated intelligence worldwide

Ettlingen – Vision Components introduces the VC nano 3D, an ultra-compact machine vision system that can be freely configured for 3D and 2D inspection tasks, providing a cost-efficient solution for a wide range of applications. Meas-uring merely 140 x 70 x 35 mm, its housing includes an intelligent camera and a line laser with a 5 mW performance which enables the real-time recording of images at a scan rate of up to 400 Hz according to the triangulation method. The images can be analyzed by the DSP processor of the Smart Camera which has a computing power of 5,600 MIPS. Additionally, images can also be ana-lyzed by a PC just like in standard 3D systems. In all models, a freely program-mable 100 Mbit Ethernet interface allows for live video output on a PC. Moreo-ver, two digital inputs and four outputs are available for integration into existing automation environments. Designed for working distances between 80 and 120 mm, measuring ranges between 12 and 120 mm and vertical resolutions between 5 and 50 µm, twelve different camera models cover a wide application range. The cameras can be used in measuring technology applications, robot guidance, completeness checks, weld inspection, the inspection of components and the detection of codes on punched parts. Since the use of basic compo-nents from VC allows for very cost-efficient pricing, users can solve many addi-tional measuring tasks with this sensor: the Ettlingen-based camera manufac-turer sets the list price for the entry-level model at 1,999 €.

Ettlingen – Vision Components introduces a right-angle head adapter which tilts the viewing direction of Smart Cameras by 90°. Thus, the integration of the already very small image processing systems into various industrial applications with limited installation space becomes even easier.

Ettlingen – For especially demanding machine vision applications, Vision Components supplies the VC4467/NIR, a highly sensitive image processing system in the shape of a barely fist-sized camera. VC4467-type cameras feature an EXview HAD CCD sensor from Sony which detects both visible light waves and long wave light near the infrared spectrum. They ensure very precise image recording even in low-light conditions. The new VC4467/NIR’s sensor has been modified in order to further increase sensitivity in the near infrared range; as a result, the camera supplies high-quality data at wavelengths up to 1,100 nm. The camera is thereby optimally suited for tasks such as electroluminescence (EL) quality control in the photovoltaic industry. Monitoring the production of solar cells, it reliably detects and identifies defects such as micro cracks, shunts, and disconnected fingers. The intelligent NIR camera also meets all requirements for night-time use. Even at a distance, image capture is effective.

The VC4002L line scan camera from Vision Components controls laser scribing of thin-film solar cells, i.e. the separation of conducting paths. The cells’ substrate material, e.g. glass, is coated with a thin silicon film which is then structured by a laser. The conducting paths run in parallel and as close as possible without touching. The monitoring system checks the P1, P2, and P3 scribes and controls the laser in real-time with a precision of 1 µm. The sensor scans the laser line position at a 5 ms rate, providing 200 measurements per second. All data can be read out directly from the camera via an Ethernet or RS232 interface.

Ettlingen – The VC Smart Reader from image processing expert Vision Components is a first-rate software solution for data matrix code recognition. Combined with the company’s intelligent cameras, the VC Smart Reader enables quick and reliable identification of 2D codes – depending on the camera model, it provides a maximum frame rate of 150 fps. Code detection and reading is not affected by the code’s shape and size, the orientation of the code (which can be rotated by 360°), or by the background type (dark-on-bright or bright-on-dark). Advanced image noise reduction enables consistent detection even when codes are heavily damaged or when there are intense background interferences. Mirrored codes are reliably identified and read, just as special code types, such as nailed or dotted codes. Furthermore, results are not impaired by a covered „L“ corner or a partially destroyed „L“ pattern of the Data Matrix code.

Ettlingen – Vision Components has extended the VC nano camera series, adding various new models for many applications. Optionally available as single board cameras or with a protective enclosure, the cost-efficient nano cameras are based on a board that is populated on both sides, thereby reaching ultra-compact dimensions of 40 x 65 mm or 80 x 45 x 20 mm. A new hardware variant further facilitates integration: various models are available with a remote camera head measuring merely 22 x 22 x 19,5 mm, which ensures optimal installation flexibility thanks to a connection cable that can be several meters long. Moreover, VC now also supplies an IP68 enclosure for all nano cameras, including lenses and lighting, which allows for use in rugged industrial environments. The new models VC6211 nano / VCSBC6211 nano, which are particularly sensitive for light in the near infrared range, are especially suitable for applications in outside areas.