Line Scan Image Acquisition With Synchronized Illumination Gain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image acquisition systems require multiple imaging processes when using multiple light sources, which is inefficient and may lead to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition system that switches between multiple light sources and synchronizes gain values in a line scan sensor to adjust brightness levels, allowing efficient image acquisition using a combination of reflective and transmissive light sources or different wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple light sources are used to acquire images under different illumination conditions, then image accuracy and information completeness are improved, but the system requires multiple imaging processes which reduces productivity and increases processing time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources (reflective and transmissive) and their corresponding imaging processes into a single integrated imaging operation. By using a line scan sensor that can simultaneously capture images under different illuminations and a control unit that synchronizes the light sources, the system merges what would traditionally require separate imaging steps into one efficient process, thereby improving productivity while maintaining image accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous imaging by using a line scan sensor that continuously scans the object while multiple light sources are alternately activated in a synchronized manner. This eliminates the need to stop and restart imaging between different illumination conditions, maintaining continuous useful action and improving acquisition efficiency without sacrificing measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging processes are performed with different light sources, then comprehensive image information is obtained, but the complexity of the imaging system and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The line scan sensor and control unit serve multiple functions: the line scan sensor can capture images under both reflective and transmissive illumination, and the control unit manages both light source switching and image synchronization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated imaging systems for each illumination type, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining complete image information.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit pre-synchronizes the activation timing of multiple light sources with the line scan sensor's imaging process. By planning and coordinating the illumination sequences in advance, the system avoids complex real-time adjustments and processing, reducing operational complexity while ensuring all necessary image information is captured.
3Reliability
If light sources are switched rapidly to maintain S/N ratio, then signal quality is improved, but the synchronization complexity between light sources and sensor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit employs feedback mechanisms to monitor the line scan sensor's operation status and dynamically adjust the light source switching timing. This feedback loop ensures that light sources are activated at optimal moments during the scanning process, maintaining high S/N ratio while the control unit manages the synchronization complexity through automated real-time adjustments.
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
The system efficiently acquires images with improved S/N ratio and accuracy by synchronizing light source switching with gain value adjustments, eliminating the need for multiple imaging and reducing afterimages.
Implementation Method 1
a line scan sensor configured to detect light from the object irradiated with the light
Implementation Method 2
The line scan sensor switches the gain value for amplifying the signal from each pixel
Data Source
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AI summary
An image acquisition system configured to acquire an image of an object to be conveyed. The system includes a plurality of light sources configured to emit light rays with which the object is irradiated, a light source control unit configured to switch a light source that irradiates the object with the light among the plurality of light sources, and a line scan sensor configured to detect light from the object irradiated with the light. The line scan sensor has a pixel section in which a plurality of pixels are at least one-dimensionally arrayed and is configured to switch a gain value for amplifying a signal from each pixel. The line scan sensor switches the gain value in synchronization with the switching of the light source.