Guarantee Reliable Results
High quality images with good focus, contrast and low noise are essential for machine vision systems to deliver reliable measurements or classifications. Lighting controllers deliver the right light intensity to the target, since even small variations can have a big impact on image quality. They can ensure consistent light levels by allowing adjustments to LED output to compensate for natural aging of the light or external factors such as dust and changes in ambient lighting. Lighting controllers can be used to pulse an LED to deliver sharp images in high-speed imaging applications by eliminating motion blur.
When higher intensities are needed for short periods, LEDs can also be overdriven in pulsed mode using Gardasoft SafeSense™ technology to avoid the possibility of accidental damage.
Adaptable control
Lighting controllers provide adaptable control at a number of levels. Offering all the necessary trigger timing with control of pulse frequency, duration and intensity ensures a highly consistent light output for repeatable imaging conditions. This flexibility in camera triggering and pulse control also opens up a wide range of illumination sequencing options which can involve multiple lights and/or multiple cameras. This could lead to the use of a single camera station instead of multiple cameras, significantly reducing complexity and cost in the system. Intelligent lighting controllers can access LED status information to allow advance planning of preventative maintenance and reduce downtime, while quick and simple configuration reduces commissioning time and allows easy interchange between different imaging requirements.
Return on investment
The use of lighting controllers can save costs in many ways. Improved accuracy and reliability in machine vision measurements can reduce waste and customer returns. Overdriving can improve image quality, reducing false rejects and leading to improved throughput. Flexible illumination sequencing can reduce hardware complexity and costs. Remote communication for set up, adjustment and troubleshooting can reduce system downtime and callout charges. Pulsed operation can extend LED lifetime, eliminating unnecessary early replacement.
Deliver enhanced performance
Lighting controllers bring a variety of capabilities that deliver enhanced performance. Configurable timing sequences allow multiple inspections in a single location, increasing throughput. Adaptable configurations accommodate multiple product types to increase system capability. Safe and repeatable overdriving can improve performance through the use of smaller apertures to give better depth of field. Overdriving to deliver increased light intensity also allows shorter camera exposures for faster throughput and reduced susceptibility to stray light, while providing future-proofing if higher light levels are needed at a later date..
Advanced connectivity
Easy communication between machine vision components is critical in integrating a machine vision solution. A lighting controller offering Ethernet connectivity can provide easy and remote set-up and adjustment as well as simple integration into GigE Vision systems. This facilitates system commissioning and reduces system delivery costs. GenICam compliance greatly simplifies communication with other machine vision components.
