Custom Machine Vision Systems

Configuration Management and Build Verification using Feature Based Programming

Decision Technology has developed a Feature Based Programming technique for machine vision systems that is ideally suited for product inspection and build verification. This method allows end users to easily program an inspection system in terms of features that are to be checked rather than elementary vision algorithms. Under this approach Decision Technology develops the features, along with their suitable underlying processing techniques, specific to the end user requirements. These features are used to both teach and determine pass/fail criteria.

VIEW EXAMPLES

Custom Machine Vision Solutions for Inspection, Gauging and Process Control Applications

Decision Technology develops custom machine vision systems that meet the need of specific customer requirements. We develop small to mid-sized turn-key solutions that concentrate on using off-the-shelf machine vision components along with custom software and programming. We design and integrate all the ancillary equipment such as, material handling, fixtures and motion equipment to ensure a complete solution. Working with a wide variety of vision technology products including line scan cameras, area scan cameras, smart image sensors and image processing platforms allows us to optimize both performance and cost for each application.

A strong working background in statistics and mathematics allows us to develop custom algorithms to enhance and meet accuracy requirements as needed. Such techniques have proven themselves many times over in processing both 2-D image and 3-D metrology data. Automatic logging of processed measurement results directly into Excel is a common practice. This provides a very cost effective approach to statistical processing and data analysis.

Area vs Line Scan Vision Technology

Many applications have been developed using both area scan and line scan camera technology. Area Scan has the ability to capture a 2 dimensional image of a stationary or moving part. Line scan requires synchronization to a moving part in order to capture a 2-dimensional image. Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages. In either case the goal is to capture a clean crisp image suitable for image processing. Selecting the best approach is based on a wide variety of application factors including: part size and required accuracy, image resolution, part feeding and accessibility, lighting, optics, experience and cost. When developing a system, all factors must be examined and weighed to establish an optimized solution.

Structured Light and Metrology Technology

Decision Technology has many years of experience in developing and working with structured light metrology type sensors and systems. Again, many factors govern the selection a structured light approach. Such factors include measurement resolution and accuracy, laser safety criteria, sensor placement and size, optics and surface specularity, experience and cost. Such technology has been applied to a variety of metrology based inspection and measurement applications including:

• Inspection of final weld bead shape
• Shape inspection of formed edges (cabinet doors, moldings, extruded shapes, etc.)
• Detection of wrinkles in leather seats
• Component count and size verification prior to injection molding processes

Dual Measurement Sensors, 2-D/3-D Measurement Technology

Decision Technology has developed a line of camera based sensors the serve dual functionality capable of making both 2-D and 3-D measurements. These dual measurement sensors combine front (or back) lighting and structured laser lighting. Processing is performed on the structured light pattern to determine depth and on various image features to determine position and size. The combined processing for both the laser triangulation and 2-D image processing is performed in a PC environment. The basic sensor can be scaled up or down to obtain the required field of view and measurement accuracy. Dual measurement mode cameras are fabricated from off-the-shelf components to meet specific requirements and are usually supplied as part of a complete machine vision measurement system. Typical applications include measuring the 3-D position and size of holes in sheet metal.

Decision Technology provides custom service/maintenance agreements to ensure delivered systems continue to operate at optimum performance.

For more information about how Decision Technology LLC can improve your manufacturing efficiency or quality control, email Bob Rongo, call our Indianapolis, Indiana headquarters at 317-272-2577, or fill out the form below: