Author: Jon Chouinard

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How to solve the dilemma of imaging small pixels in the newest image sensors? See the new FUJI HF-12M lenses!

The Sony Pregius image sensors are becoming the workhorse in industrial cameras providing various resolutions, coupled with high dynamic range and unsurpassed sensitivity.  However, the latest pixel architecture from Sony has moved to a 3.45um pixel pitch which results in more demand on the lens resolution.  It becomes even more challenging on high megapixel and small format image sensors such as the ON-SEMI MT9P031 or AR1820HS which have 2.2um and 1.25um respectively.

To be successful in imaging with these sensors, a lens design must provide the ability to resolve the small pixels ideally to the edge of the lens or image contrast will degrade.  In many cases, this is stated in terms of line pairs per mm (lp/mm) from center to edge (i.e 120/100).  Read more about lens specifications in our “Demystifying Lens performance specificaions” blog

How do we overcome this problem to ensure a high contrast image?   
FUJI 12 Megapixel HF-12M series lenses!

Although lens manufacturers tout a lens series in Megapixels, the key is understanding the lens performance data in terms of its resolution.  The FUJI HF12M series states “12 Megapixels”, but really is a lens designed to resolve 2.1um pixels on a 2/3″ sensor which accommodates 12 megapixels.  The bottom line is that any image sensor with small pixels down to 2.1um regardless of resolution benefit from this lens.. This lens will help resolve the pixel!  

The HF-12M series is great for cameras using image sensors from Sony’s Pregius IMX Series (ie  IMX250, IMX252, IMX264) which have 3.45 um pixels along with ON-Semiconductors MT9P031 or AR1820HS sensors.  


FUJI HF-12M Features  

Advanced Optical performance 

  • When the iris (aperture) is set at the orange F4 marker on  the lens barrel, the HF-12M series delivers the resolving power greater than 2.1um pixel pitch.
  • The HF-12M series is capable of maintaining ultra-high definition with a 2.7um pixel pitch within the whole frame area.  
  • The series brings out maximum performance of the popular Sony Pregius image sensors with a 3.45um pixel pitch.


Unique “4D” High Resolution performance
General machine vision lenses share the issue of resolution degradation when the working distance or aperture is changed.  The HF-12M features Fujinon lenses unique “4D High Resolution” performance.  It maintains a high level of consistent image sharpness at the center as well as the edges, while mitigating resolution degradation that typically occurs when changing a working distance or aperture value.  




Ease of installation and high reliability

  • Compact form factor across five models with 33mm diameter
  • Most lenses use iris and focus locking screws with protruding heads causing interference.  The HF-12M series come with regular as well as headless compact screws to minimize interference
  • Built with metal barrel for durability and robustness.




Industry-leading low distortion design of no more than 0.05%
Unique optical design minimizes troublesome distortion.  The series boasts an industry-leading low distortion rate of not more than 0.05%

 
 

 

 

See the entire Fujinon lens line HERE!   


  

1st Vision has extensive knowledge in industrial imaging and can help answer any questions.  We have over 100 years of combined knowledge and look forward to discussing your application.  

Please do not hesitate to Contact us!  1st Vision can provide a complete solution including cameras, lenses, lighting and cables.  

Ph:  978-474-0044
info@1stvision.com
www.1stvision.com  

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What you need to know about Allied Vision expanding Manta camera portfolio

Manta G-319 & Manta G-507 with SONY PregiusTM CMOS Sensors added to the portfolio

Allied Vision adds two new camera models with the very popular Sony PregiusTM CMOS sensors to its high performance camera portfolio. These new global shutter sensors outperform traditional global shutter CMOS sensors by having a high saturation capacity and very low noise resulting in an exceptional dynamic range.  (Learn more about the Pregius sensors here) 

The Manta G-319 powered by the 3.1 megapixel Sony Pregius  IMX265 sensor, and the Manta G-507 utilizing the 5.0 megapixel Sony Pregius IMX264 sensor will provide great options for high quality imaging. Due to their superior performance, these cameras will be the best candidates to replace existing CCD cameras with similar resolution and optical formats.  

The Manta is Allied Vision’s most versatile GigE Vision camera with a wide range of features. Particular highlights include: 

  • On-board image processing features such as look-up tables and sophisticated color correction capabilities. 
  • Numerous modular concept options – including angled heads and board level versions to facilitate the integration in almost any application. 
  • Trigger over Ethernet (ToE) Action Commands feature –  ToE enables to externally trigger GigE cameras in a network through the Ethernet cable. This means that Manta cameras can now be triggered via its Power over Ethernet connection and enable users to realize single cable solutions with data, power and trigger capabilities. Furthermore, all action command related configurations can be saved in the camera’s user sets.
Full Specifications for can be found at the links below and available in color and monochrome.

Manta G-319 – http://1stvision.com/cameras/AVT/Manta-G-319B-C.html
Manta G-507 – http://1stvision.com/cameras/AVT/Manta-G-507B-C.html

The additional of new sensors has become overwhelming!  We can help you make solid decisions on which sensors are the best for your application as we have studied the data and conducted comparison tests.  Contact us to discuss your application in detail!

1st Vision has extensive knowledge in industrial imaging and can help answer any questions.  We have over 100 years of combined knowledge and look forward to discussing your application.  
Please do not hesitate to Contact us!  1st Vision can provide a complete solution including cameras, lenses, lighting and cables.  

Ph:  978-474-0044
info@1stvision.com
www.1stvision.com  

Follow us on Social Media!

    https://www.facebook.com/pages/1st-Vision/944658058935262?fref=ts           

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Learn about Thermal Imaging – Problems solved with Dalsa’s new Calibir camera!

Introducing the Teledyne Dalsa Calibir thermal imaging camera

The Calibir™ uncooled thermal imaging long wave infrared (LWIR) camera platform offers outstanding shutter-less imaging performance and great flexibility in a very compact package. With a frontal form factor of 29mm x 29mm the camera can be integrated in tight spaces for compact solutions. The microbolometer-based, ITAR free platform covers wavelengths from 8-14 µm and supports a variety of camera interfaces, lenses and state of the art on-board processing features.  This serves a wide range of today’s uncooled imaging applications with an architecture that offers more capabilities and possibilities for the future at an economical price.

What is Thermal Imaging and how does it work?



Long Wavelength infrared imaging detects infrared light in the 8-14um wavelength

region, which is invisible radiant energy that we experience as heat but can not see.  At temperatures above absolute zero (-275.15 deg. C), everything emits thermal radiation. The warmer an object, the more radiation it emits making warm objects stand out against cooler backgrounds.  

Long wavelength Infrared cameras are one of the more commonly used IR cameras.  These cameras are based on microbolometer focal plane arrays which converts infrared energy into an electronic signal which is processed and then produces an image.

An example to the right shows a false-color thermal image taken with a microbolometer camera.  The image shows hotter (redder) and cooler (bluer) areas where temperatures vary by 10 °C, indicating increased blood flow caused by inflammation in a medical application. 
As size, weight and cost decline and performance increases, an ever widening range of applications is opening up.
 
Application examples include:   
  • Medical Imaging  – Detect inflammation, cancer and other diseases
  • Surveillance, Defense & Security – Identify heat sources (humans)
  • Unmanned airborne and ground vehicles – Object avoidance, detection of wildlife
  • General Machine Vision – Detect features not visible to standard cameras.
As an example, the video below reveals the difference between hot and cold liquids poured on the ground; it also shows the heat signatures of a motorcycle’s engine and tire.

Benefits of the Calibir LWIR camera

Unprecedented Ease of use – Using Teledyne Dalsa’s established SDK and control tool (CamExpert), installation to image capture can be accomplished in minutes!  Connect and Go!   Watch the video below demonstrating how quickly you can start capturing images.




Size & Weight – With a 29 x 29 mm frontal form factor @ 30 grams (w/out lens), this is ideal for drones to designing into compact spaces.

Shutterless Operation   

The Calibir camera requires no mechanical shutter for calibration, meaning instant image output and no interruption for recalibration.  The image output of the Calibir camera remains stable across time and temperature range, freeing your application the the inconvenience, size, and additional complexity of failure prone mechanical shutters.  




Adaptive Contrast Enhancement 

The Calibir series features advanced image processing algorithms that adapt to the image content, optimizing contrast to show the finest details regardless of conditions or intra-scene variations.  With no intervention, the Calibir delivers high quality images reliably.  



Flexible Output options – Supports GigE Vision, RGMII/CPI and Analog RS170

Wide Range of Lens options – supports 11 different lenses ranging from 7.5 to 100 mm focal lengths, supplied and calibrated with the camera over an operating range of -40 to 60 deg. C ambient temperatures.

Full Specifications can be found HERE


UPDATE to this BLOG Sept 09, 2016 – Teledyne Dalsa released another video which shows radiometric capabilities which is coming by end of 2016 / Early 2017.  Additionally, the short video discusses and shows other industrial applications
1st Vision has extensive knowledge in industrial imaging and can help answer any questions.  We have over 100 years of combined knowledge and look forward to discussing your application.  

Please do not hesitate to Contact us!  1st Vision can provide a complete solution including cameras, lenses, lighting and cables.  

Ph:  978-474-0044
info@1stvision.com
www.1stvision.com  

Follow us on Social Media!

    https://www.facebook.com/pages/1st-Vision/944658058935262?fref=ts           

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Advantages of Telecentric lenses in machine vision applications

Telecentric lenses are essential in eliminating distortion errors caused by standard lenses in machine vision applications.  


Telecentric lenses are defined by lenses only accepting incoming light ray bundles whose principal rays are parallel to the optical axis of the lens as seen in the diagram below

 




















Key advantages to a Telecentric lens are constant magnification, no perspective error and very low distortion

 









 



How do the advantages of telecentric lenses help in machine vision applications?  

Constant Magnification

Telecentric lenses can provide constant magnification, and not influenced by varying lens to object distances.  



Example: The image to the right shows 2 screws in which the 2nd screw is 10mm further away from screw 1 when viewed from the Telecentric lens in the setup.












Using a standard lens, screw #1 which is closer will appear to be larger














Using a Telecentric lens, the screws look the same size and not influenced by the lens to object distance.  

This is very helpful in applications to ensure accurate measurements negating any deviations from part placement.

Perspective Error

Standard lenses show significant perspective errors, whereas telecentric lenses are able to eliminate any perspective effects.  In cases where measurements are critical, using a telecentric lens is a must!




Low Distortion

Regular lenses have 1-2% distortion, whereas telecentric lenses have 0.1%





Regular lens will either have “Barrel” (left image) or “Pin cusion” distortion (right image) 






    Barrel Distortion                   Pin Cushion Distortion

In barrel distortion, image magnification decreases with distance from the optical axis. This is common in fish-eye lenses.  

In pincushion distortion, image magnification increases with the distance from the optical axis.  

Using telecentric lenses in machine vision applications will eliminate barrel and pin cusion distortion.  Low distortion is imperative where accuracy is required.  

How can it get any better!  – Use Collimated light!

Telecentric lenses provide a high level of accuracy, but when coupled with a collimated light source, edge definition is increased.

Diffused backlights can generate unwanted border effects and create a “fake” image of the edge of a part.  Collimated backlights allow only parallel rays to pass by objects.  This setup would be setup like the diagram below.  

   
The result is very crisp edge definition as seen in the images below.  The left image is using a standard backlight in which light “wraps” around the cap.  The right images use a collimated back light providing excellent edge definition.










 

Images courteously of Opto Engineering!1st Vision has extensive knowledge in industrial imaging and can help answer any questions.  We have over 100 years of combined knowledge and look forward to discussing your application.  Please do not hesitate to Contact us!  1st Vision can provide a complete solution including cameras, lenses, lighting and cables.  

Ph:  978-474-0044
info@1stvision.com
www.1stvision.com  

Follow us on Social Media!

    https://www.facebook.com/pages/1st-Vision/944658058935262?fref=ts