Understanding machine vision cameras and how they are used

This article is all about understanding machine vision cameras and how they are used. In particular, we will discuss the different components of a machine vision camera and what each component does in order for machine vision applications to run successfully. We will also mention some of the benefits to using machine vision cameras and go over some industries where they are used. Finally, we will mention some machines that use them and briefly go over what each machine does.

There are many different types of machine vision cameras and in this article I hope to give you a better understanding about what they do and how they work.

For the purpose of this article we will be focusing on CCD Machine Vision Cameras, but we will touch upon CMOS Sensors later.

A typical Machine Vision Camera usually consists of the following:

• Optical Module (Objective Lens and CCD Sensor)
• Mounting Bracket
• Power Supply
• I/O Connections

1. RS232 b. USB c. Ethernet d. Analog Video Out e. Trigger In, Out or both f. Clock g. Sync h. GND (Ground)

Power Connections

1. 12V DC b. 5V DC c. 24V AC – 3 phase

I will now explain each component to help you understand how the machine vision camera functions and why it is needed in order for Machine Vision Applications to run successfully.

Objective Lens (Optional)

The objective lens is an optional component that is used to focus the image onto the CCD Sensor. The lens is usually adjustable so that you can change the magnification and depth of field.

CCD Sensor

The CCD Sensor is the main component in a machine vision camera and it is responsible for converting the light into electronic signals. The sensor is usually a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor.

CMOS Sensor

A CMOS Sensor is slowly replacing the traditional CCD sensor because it is less expensive to produce and has the ability to read signals faster. However, a CMOS sensor generally produces a lower quality image than a CCD sensor.

Mounting Bracket

The Mounting Bracket is used to attach the camera to a machine or enclosure. It also provides a means to adjust the angle of the camera.

Power Supply

The Power Supply provides power to the camera and is usually 12V DC, 5V DC, or 24V AC.

I/O Connections

The I/O Connections allow you to communicate with the camera and send it commands. The connections are usually RS232, USB, Ethernet, Analog Video Out, Trigger In, Out, or both, Clock, Sync and GND.

Power Connections

The Power Connections provide power to the camera and are usually 12V DC, 5V DC, or 24V AC.

Now that you have a general understanding of what a machine vision camera is and what it consists of, I will explain how each component is used in order for machine vision applications to run successfully.

Optical Module (Objective Lens and CCD Sensor)

The Optical Module is used to focus the image onto the CCD Sensor. The lens is usually adjustable so that you can change the magnification and depth of field.

Benefits of machine vision cameras

There are a lot of benefits to using machine vision cameras and some of these benefits include:

• Accurate Measurement
• Fast Inspection
• Reduced Scrap and Improved Yield
• Increased Productivity and Efficiency
• Better Quality Control and Inspection

Industries where machine vision cameras are used

A machine vision camera can be used in almost every industry and some of the industries include:

Automotive Manufacturing, Aerospace Industries, Electronics Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Food & Beveraging , Semiconductor Wafer Manufacturer. Plastic Injection Moulding Machinery Manufacture, Packaging Machinery Manufacturers etc.

Machines that use machine vision cameras

Machine vision cameras are used in a variety of machines and some of these machines include: Robotics, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Assembly Lines, Machine Tools, Optical Inspection Equipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I hope you have a better understanding of machine vision cameras and how they are used in machine vision applications. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.