Epson has developed a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated in manufacturing lines to automate colour inspections. It says the new camera, which captures light across the visible spectrum, will be launched in the 2020 fiscal year ending March 2021.
“The RGB cameras currently used in these inspections are unable to capture detailed colour information and are not always able to distinguish between subtle differences in colour,” says Epson. “Consequently, most visual inspections relied on human colour perception. However, colour perception varies among individuals, and human error puts manufacturers at risk of shipping defective goods. Time and cost constraints make colour management an issue in many industries. Spectroscopic cameras have traditionally been large and expensive, and those equipped with line sensors may have to composite images after scanning, adding to the time and expense.
“Epson has developed an optimal solution for colour management processes with a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated into manufacturing lines, that can automate and quantify inspections, and output images without the time and trouble of compositing. This spectroscopic camera will enable manufacturers to manage colour in their manufacturing processes more easily than ever before.”
Features
About the same compactness and weight as an RGB camera. Can be installed in manufacturing lines.
Integral field spectroscopy. Can focus on an area, measure the colours, and distinguish colours of a target object within the visible light range.
Image processing functions needed on manufacturing lines can be used along with spectral imaging functions.
Specifications
Wavelength range 400 nm to 700 nm
Number of bands 16
Wavelength resolution 45 nm
Image resolution 1,024 x 768 (XGA)
Size Dimensions to be announced later
Weight 175 g
Lens mount C-mount
Operating temperature range +5 to +40℃
Epson will be demonstrating the spectroscopic camera on the Epson booth S1-02 at International Robot Exhibition 2019, to be held at the Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Centre) from 18-21 December 2019.
For more information about the exhibition and the demos that will be on the Epson booth, click here.
