What Are the Advantages of IR LEDs for Machine Vision？
IR LEDs for Machine Vision
In the realm of machine vision, infrared (IR) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) play a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of imaging systems. Unlike visible light, which is constrained by its shorter wavelengths, IR LEDs operate in a spectrum that allows for deeper penetration into various materials, enabling the detection of defects that are often invisible under standard lighting conditions. This unique property makes IR LEDs invaluable in industrial applications where precision and reliability are paramount.
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Understanding Infrared Light
Infrared radiation encompasses a broad range of wavelengths from approximately 780 nm to 1 mm, with the near-infrared (NIR) range, specifically from 780 nm to nm, being particularly relevant for machine vision applications. IR light's longer wavelengths facilitate its ability to penetrate materials such as glass, plastics, and textiles, thereby revealing internal flaws or surface defects that might otherwise go unnoticed. This characteristic is especially beneficial in environments with challenging lighting conditions, where visible light can create noise or reflections that obscure critical details.
Advantages of IR LEDs in Machine Vision
The integration of IR LEDs into machine vision systems offers several advantages:
Reduced Surface Reflection: IR light generates fewer surface reflections compared to visible light, allowing for clearer imaging of textured or shiny surfaces.
Non-Disruptive Inspection: Since IR radiation is invisible to the human eye, it can be employed in settings where visible light would interfere with operations or distract personnel.
Versatile Applications: From inspecting printed materials to detecting flaws in opaque objects, IR LEDs can be tailored for a variety of inspection tasks.
Key Considerations for Implementation
When designing a machine vision system that utilizes IR LEDs, several critical factors must be taken into account:
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Wavelength Selection: Different materials absorb various wavelengths differently; thus, selecting the appropriate wavelength is crucial for effective inspection.
Camera Compatibility: The choice of a camera sensor significantly impacts performance. For instance, standard CCD cameras may suffice for wavelengths around 870 nm but require specialized sensors for longer wavelengths.
Illumination Geometry: The arrangement and intensity of the lighting must be optimized to minimize shadows and maximize contrast on features of interest. Techniques such as backlighting or dark field illumination can enhance visibility depending on the application.
Conclusion
The adoption of IR LEDs in machine vision systems represents a significant advancement in industrial inspection technology. By leveraging the unique properties of infrared light, these systems can achieve higher accuracy and reliability in detecting defects across a wide range of materials. As technology continues to evolve, further innovations in IR LED design and application are expected to enhance their effectiveness and broaden their use in various industries.
Customized infrared machine vision lighting
Getian focuses on developing customized infrared LED solutions to maximize customer system performance by focusing on wavelength accuracy, uniformity control, power management and miniaturization.
Seeing further with LEDiL's IR optics
IR emitters have many advantages over other IR illumination sources. They are smaller in size, have lower electric consumption, are durable and insensitive to moderate vibration. Most of LEDiL’s standard secondary optics are optically compatible with IR emitters. However, LEDiL also has developed lenses specifically for Osram IR emitters. The light distribution of these lenses is optimized for use with the specific IR emitters.
EXAMPLES OF LEDiL’s IR-OPTIMIZED SECONDARY OPTICS
IRENE IR-OPTIC FAMILY
- Specifically designed for CCTV surveillance
- Rectangular beam designed to match the rectangular field of view of camera sensor
- Beam widths are optimized for different focal length camera optics
- IRENE has same footprint as 21.6 mm diameter LEILA family of optics
LISA2 OPTIC FAMILY
- Small footprint suitable for tight PCB layout
- Diverse selection of beam angles ranging from real spot to wide including oval pattern
IRIS SPOT OPTIC
- Tight real spot lens for longer range
- FHWM 11° with Ostar IR emitter
- High intensity peak
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
- Surveillance of large areas and spaces
- Military applications
- Night vision systems
DEMONSTRATION OF HOW DIFFERENT BEAM ANGLES INFLUENCE IMAGE IN CCTV SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS
- The illumination level is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the light source – Light focusing optics provide more reach with less power used
- To be most effective, light distribution should be adjusted to fit the camera’s field of view
- LED in use: OSRAM SFH S IR
LED Only – Visibility approx. 2.8 m With wide beam optics (EVA-W) – Visibility approx. 7 m With medium beam optics (LXP-M) – Visibility approx. 14 m With spot beam optics (IRIS-IR) – Back wall of the corridor is still brightly illuminated as well as the subject. Secondary spot optics are best suited for outdoor areas where long distance illumination is mandatory.
- Light that is too wide for camera’s field of view means wasted light and reduced illumination range.
- Light that is too narrow produces glare and white-out in the center of the area, with corners not correctly illuminated.
CHOOSING RIGHT OPTICS FOR RIGHT APPLICATION MEANS BETTER QUALITY AND BEST POSSIBLE EFFICACY
Find all our optics for IR lighting
The information contained herein is the property of LEDiL Oy, Joensuunkatu 7, FI- SALO, Finland and is subject to change without notice. Please visit www.ledil.com for additional information, such as the latest photometric files, 3D mechanical models, and application notes relating to handling, gluing and taping.