Modular Illumination Assembly for Machine Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine vision systems face challenges in adaptability and efficiency due to fixed optical configurations, which limit their ability to accommodate various operations and conditions, particularly with multispectral light sources that often result in non-homogeneous light distribution and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular illumination assembly with a housing featuring interchangeable light sources and optics, including a two-element illumination optics assembly with a light pipe and lenses, allowing for dynamic illumination configurations and homogenous light distribution across different fields of view and working distances without the need for external illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed optical configurations are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to various operations and conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination assembly is divided into separate modular components: a housing, interchangeable light sources, and removable illumination optics assemblies. Each module can be independently selected and replaced based on specific application requirements, enabling adaptability without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with standardized interfaces to accommodate multiple types of light sources and illumination optics assemblies. A single housing structure can support various configurations for different fields of view and working distances, making the system universally applicable across multiple operations.
2Illumination intensity
If multispectral light sources are used, then illumination coverage is improved, but light distribution homogeneity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A light pipe is introduced as an intermediary component between the multispectral light source and the target area. The light pipe collects light from the source and redistributes it uniformly across the illumination field, eliminating hot spots and achieving homogeneous light distribution while maintaining broad spectral coverage.
3Area of stationary object
If larger fields of view are achieved, then inspection coverage is improved, but working distance requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Different illumination optics assemblies with varying optical parameters (focal length, aperture, magnification) are provided to match different working distances and field of view requirements. By changing the optical parameters of the removable lens assembly, the system can achieve large fields of view at extended working distances without compromising illumination quality.
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 solution provides consistent and efficient illumination with improved light homogeneity, enabling larger fields of view and longer working distances, while reducing stray light and eliminating the need for diffusers, thus enhancing the performance of machine vision systems in diverse applications.
Implementation Method 1
a two-element illumination optics assembly with a light pipe and lenses
Implementation Method 2
a two-element illumination optics assembly with a light pipe and lenses
Data Source
AI summary
An illumination assembly for a machine vision system includes a housing comprising a first shelf defining a first position within the housing and a second shelf defining a second position within the housing. a circuit board disposed within the housing, a plurality of light sources disposed within the housing and configured to be coupled to the circuit board, and a plurality of illumination optics assemblies disposed within the housing and removably coupled to the housing. Each illumination optics assembly corresponds to one of the plurality of light sources. The housing is configured to support the circuit board at one of the first position or the second position within the housing based on an illumination optics assembly type of the plurality of illumination optics assemblies.