Driven by the wave of industrial automation, machine vision technology is developing at an unprecedented speed, and optical components, as the "eyes" of machine vision systems, play a vital role in it. As an important branch of artificial intelligence, machine vision simulates the human visual system and uses computers and cameras to capture, process and analyze images to achieve functions such as measurement, judgment and control. In this process, optical components play an irreplaceable role.

Lens

Lens is the most basic optical component in the machine vision system. Its function is to image the target object on the image sensor. According to different application requirements, lenses with different focal lengths, different apertures and different image qualities can be selected.

In cameras and camcorders, lenses are used to adjust the focal length and aperture to obtain clear and accurate images. At the same time, in precision instruments such as microscopes and telescopes, lenses are also used to magnify and focus images, allowing users to observe more subtle structures and details. On mobile phone production lines, high-precision industrial lenses can image tiny electronic components, and cooperate with image processing algorithms to achieve defect detection and positioning to ensure product quality.

Prism

The prism uses the principles of light refraction and reflection to change the direction of light propagation. It is often used in machine vision systems for optical path turning, image rotation, and light splitting.

In logistics sorting systems, the prism can rotate the image collected by the camera by 90 degrees, making it easier for the image processing algorithm to identify the barcode on the package and achieve rapid sorting.

Filters

Filters can selectively transmit or reflect light of specific wavelengths. They are often used in machine vision systems to eliminate stray light interference, enhance target features, and achieve multi-spectral imaging.

In image sensors and cameras, filters are used to filter out unwanted spectral components (such as infrared and ultraviolet light) to reduce image noise and interference. At the same time, in special application scenarios (such as fluorescence detection and infrared thermal imaging), filters are also used to selectively transmit light of specific wavelengths to achieve specific detection purposes.

Windows

Window sheet is a barrier between the machine vision system and the external environment. It can protect the internal optical components from dust, water vapor and other pollution, and can also play the role of explosion-proof and corrosion-proof.

In industrial sites, explosion-proof window sheets can protect cameras from explosion shocks and ensure safe production.

Mirrors

Mirrors use the principle of light reflection to change the propagation path of light. They are often used in machine vision systems to fold the light path and change the imaging direction.

In laser marking and cutting systems, mirrors are used to guide the laser beam to move along a predetermined path to achieve precise processing and cutting. At the same time, in industrial automation production lines, reflectors are also used to build complex optical path systems to meet the needs of different application scenarios. In self-driving cars, mirrors can reflect the laser beam emitted by the lidar onto the target object to achieve three-dimensional environmental perception.

With the continuous development of machine vision technology, the performance requirements for optical components are getting higher and higher. In the future, optical components will develop in the direction of smaller, more integrated, and more intelligent, empowering more application scenarios for machine vision technology and promoting smart manufacturing and smart life to new heights.