Camera Control Module Synchronizing Exposure and Illumination Clocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fast-running production systems, existing control modules for cameras face challenges in maintaining consistent brightness during short light pulses and executing complex exposure sequences with varying illumination and exposure times, leading to unreliable image evaluation and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A control module that synchronizes exposure times and illumination times using a control clock signal, ensuring precise control over both the illumination apparatus and camera, thereby eliminating unintended brightness fluctuations and allowing for rapid execution of complex exposure sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If short light pulses are used to freeze motion in fast-running production systems, then motion freezing capability is improved, but brightness consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic triggering of light pulses synchronized with the conveying system's periodic motion. Each trigger initiates a precisely timed light pulse that freezes motion at regular intervals, ensuring consistent brightness across successive images while maintaining high conveying speeds. The periodic synchronization between trigger signals and conveying rhythm resolves the contradiction between speed and brightness consistency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different illumination times and exposure times are used to examine different aspects, then inspection versatility is improved, but execution time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple exposure sequences with different illumination and exposure time parameters before actual inspection begins. When a trigger signal arrives, the pre-programmed sequence executes immediately without requiring real-time parameter adjustments. This preliminary preparation allows versatile inspection capabilities while minimizing execution time, as all timing parameters are predetermined and automatically sequenced.
3Measurement precision
If complex exposure sequences with varying illumination and exposure times are executed, then inspection quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module segments the complex exposure sequence into discrete, independently controllable stages, each with specific illumination and exposure parameters. The sequence is divided into multiple triggerable segments that can be executed in predetermined order. This segmentation allows precise control over each inspection aspect while managing system complexity through modular, stepwise operation rather than monolithic control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables reliable acquisition of images with consistent brightness and efficient execution of exposure sequences, even at high speeds, by synchronizing illumination and exposure times, thus improving image quality and system performance.
Implementation Method 1
at least one illumination apparatus (17, 18, 19) with light-emitting diodes as illumination means
Implementation Method 2
the camera (5), on receiving such a trigger pulse, receives the light reflected by the object to be inspected and converts it into image data
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a control module for a camera and an illumination apparatus, a camera, a production system and a method for acquiring images by means of such a camera. The exposure times and illumination times are controlled on the basis of a common control clock signal. Due to this, beats can be avoided. This even applies if short flashes are executed at irregular times.