Machine Vision Lighting Archives - Prophotonix https://www.prophotonix.com/category/machine-vision-lighting/ Laser solutions Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:44:46 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.prophotonix.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/cropped-prophotonix-icon-1-32x32.png Machine Vision Lighting Archives - Prophotonix https://www.prophotonix.com/category/machine-vision-lighting/ 32 32 Introducing the UV Pro Test Kit: A Powerful All-in-One Platform for Precise and Repeatable UV Testing https://www.prophotonix.com/introducing-the-uv-pro-test-kit-a-powerful-all-in-one-plataform-for-precise-and-repeatable-uv-testing/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:20:47 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=281541 The UV Pro Test Kit is an all-in-one, plug-and-play UV testing platform that combines the UV Pro Area Light with the UV Pro Digital Controller to deliver a streamlined and repeatable solution for UVC and UVA testing. Designed for laboratory and R&D environments, the kit enables intensity control, automated wavelength detection and exposure sequencing into a single, easy-to-use system. This integrated approach minimizes setup complexity and enables consistent results across repeated UV tests.

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The UV Pro Test Kit is an all-in-one, plug-and-play UV testing platform that combines the UV Pro Area Light with the UV Pro Digital Controller to deliver a streamlined and repeatable solution for UVC and UVA testing. Designed for laboratory and R&D environments, the kit enables intensity control, automated wavelength detection and exposure sequencing into a single, easy-to-use system. This integrated approach minimizes setup complexity and enables consistent results across repeated UV tests.

In response to the growing interest in UVC technologies and increasing customer demand to evaluate this emerging technology in real-world applications, the UV Pro Test Kit provides a reliable and controlled platform for testing and validation. It allows customers to confidently explore UVC performance, assess feasibility, and generate repeatable data to support development, qualification, and adoption of UVC solutions across a wide range of use cases.

Key Features

  • Digital control of up to two UV Pro Area Lights
  • 250 W per channel
  • Touchscreen control (7-inch interface)
  • Plug & Play operation
  • Automated wavelength detection (265 nm, 365 nm, 405 nm)
  • Programmable exposure profiles

Key Applications

Powerful Digital Control and Fully Integrated UV Operation

The UV Pro Test Kit provides precise digital control through its intuitive touchscreen interface, allowing users to configure intensity settings and build detailed exposure profiles tailored to their testing needs. These profiles can include ramp-up sequences, defined exposure times, and custom intensity patterns, enabling consistent and repeatable UV behavior across multiple test iterations. Automatic wavelength detection ensures safe, optimized operation for each connected light head. With an integrated design that eliminates external drivers and reduces manual setup, the system streamlines deployment and delivers stable, reliable UV performance in laboratory environments.

Learn more about the UV Pro Test Kit by visiting the product page and contact our team to discuss your application.

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COBRA NX MultiSpec: High Performance Multispectral Line Light Delivering Up to 30% Lower Lighting Costs https://www.prophotonix.com/cobra-nx-multispectral-lighting/ Thu, 29 May 2025 10:10:36 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=52841 Explore how the COBRA NX MultiSpec delivers high-intensity, tunable multispectral illumination from a compact and scalable form factor, engineered for applications where performance‑to‑cost ratio is critical. Tunable Multispectral Output in a compact, configurable form factor As Multispectral Imaging becomes increasingly critical across industries such as food sorting, pharmaceutical inspection, and print verification, the need for […]

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Explore how the COBRA NX MultiSpec delivers high-intensity, tunable multispectral illumination from a compact and scalable form factor, engineered for applications where performance‑to‑cost ratio is critical.

Tunable Multispectral Output in a compact, configurable form factor

As Multispectral Imaging becomes increasingly critical across industries such as food sorting, pharmaceutical inspection, and print verification, the need for accessible, high‑performance multispectral lighting with lower system cost has never been more pressing. In many applications, while multispectral technology can deliver significant benefits, cost, size, and integration complexity presents barriers to implementation.

COBRA NX MultiSpec

The COBRA NX MultiSpec from ProPhotonix bridges this gap with a compact, modular LED Line Light engineered to deliver high-performance multispectral illumination with an optimized performance-cost ratio. Designed for applications where performance and budget must align, it provides tunable multispectral lighting in a form factor that is easy to integrate into new and existing systems.

Why COBRA NX MultiSpec?

The COBRA NX MultiSpec is designed to provide discrete control of multiple wavelengths, enabling users to tailor spectral profiles and enhance signal-to-noise ratios for their specific imaging tasks. With standard configurations including RGB, RGB-IR (855nm), RGB-White (3500K), and RGB-SWIR (1150nm, 1450nm), the platform offers a flexible solution for a wide range of multispectral applications including food sorting and web inspection.

Leveraging Chip-on-Board LED technology and superior optical design, COBRA NX MultiSpec delivers intense, uniform multispectral illumination. Modular lengths from 300mm up to 1.2m allow for flexible integration across inspection widths in systems where performance-to-cost ratio is critical.

Key Features

  • High performance‑to‑cost ratio with up to 30% lower lighting costs
  • RGB, RBG-NIR, RGB-White, and RGB-SWIR as well as Custom Options Available
  • Compact, Modular Design: 300mm to 1.2m lengths
  • Integrated Ethernet Control

When paired with multispectral cameras from leading manufacturers such as CMICRO, JAI, and Teledyne Dalsa, the COBRA NX MultiSpec enables significant system cost reductions while maintaining high imaging performance, making it ideal for applications where spectral control, uniformity, and cost‑efficiency must align.

The COBRA NX MultiSpec delivers the essential illumination performance required for a wide range of applications maintaining the high standards of the COBRA platform while offering a more accessible solution for cost-sensitive projects.

Key Applications

  • Multispectral Imaging
  • Food Sorting
  • Web Inspection

Multispectral Imaging Made Accessible with COBRA NX MultiSpec

By combining configurable spectral output, compact design, and integration-ready features, this COBRA NX MultiSpec empowers engineers to unlock the benefits of multispectral imaging without compromising on cost or performance.

To learn more about the COBRA NX MultiSpec and explore configuration options, get in touch with our team today.

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UVC-Pro Area Light: 265nm UVC LED Illumination for Machine Vision & Imaging https://www.prophotonix.com/uvc-pro-area-light-265nm-uvc-led-illumination-for-machine-vision-imaging/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:01:53 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=52849 Discover how ProPhotonix’s UVC-Pro Area Light enables high-performance UV inspection systems. Designed with 265nm, this compact, stackable LED solution delivers consistent, uniform illumination for inspection, fluorescence-based analysis, and advanced imaging applications. 265nm LED Illumination Engineered for Imaging Applications As machine vision and industrial imaging systems advance, the demand for narrowband, stable ultraviolet light sources has […]

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Discover how ProPhotonix’s UVC-Pro Area Light enables high-performance UV inspection systems.

Designed with 265nm, this compact, stackable LED solution delivers consistent, uniform illumination for inspection, fluorescence-based analysis, and advanced imaging applications.

265nm LED Illumination Engineered for Imaging Applications

As machine vision and industrial imaging systems advance, the demand for narrowband, stable ultraviolet light sources has increased. Traditional mercury-based UV lamps are now being phased out due to safety, regulatory, and integration limitations. For critical workflows where output uniformity, wavelength stability, and intensity control directly impact system performance, a more purpose-built solution is required.

The UVC-Pro Area Light delivers precision-tuned 265nm illumination in a compact, configurable form factor. Designed for fluorescence-based defect detection, pharmaceutical analysis, and UV-based surface inspection, it provides a powerful, integration-ready lighting solution that enables and extends modern industrial workflows well into the future.

Why 265nm?

265nm illumination provides wavelength-specific excitation for fluorescence detection and analytical imaging. Systems requiring dependable UV performance for material analysis, contaminant detection, or surface verification benefit from stable, narrowband UVC output.

Unlike mercury lamps, which emit broad spectra requiring external filters, the UVC-Pro Area Light delivers direct, application-specific illumination with no excess noise in the spectrum.

Key Performance Features

  • Stable Output: Up to 35mW/cm² of irradiance at 265nm for reliable imaging
  • Uniform Illumination: Even distribution enables consistent inspection results
  • Compact, Stackable Design: Modular form factor enables system designers to scale illumination across wider fields of view.

This balance between mechanical design and optical output enables engineers to develop high-performance systems without introducing thermal or integration complexity.

Built for System Integration

The UVC-Pro Area Light is engineered with OEM system requirements in mind. Its compact form-factor, flexible mounting, and modular scalability make it easy to deploy in both standalone and inline machine vision stations.

Target Applications:

  • Fluorescence-based pharmaceutical and chemical inspection
  • Adhesive and coating verification
  • UV-reactive marker detection
  • Sorting and surface inspection in sterile production environments

Why Choose LED Over Mercury?

Solid-state UVC lighting provides significant advantages:

  • Instant start-up, minimal warm-up time
  • Longer lifespan and reduced recalibration cycles
  • No hazardous materials or special disposal required
  • Compact form factor for easier system integration

LED technology offers the stability and control required for repeatable results in regulated industries without the drawbacks of legacy systems.

Conclusion: A Smarter Approach to UV Illumination

With its narrowband 265nm output, thermal stability, and system-ready design, the UVC-Pro Area Light is an advanced solution for industrial engineers. Whether used for fluorescence inspection, material verification, or UV-based quality control, it brings efficiency and performance together in one stackable platform.

To explore how the UVC PRO Area Light can enhance your systems, download the datasheet or get in touch with our team today.

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Bright Field vs. Dark Field Lighting https://www.prophotonix.com/bright-field-vs-dark-field-lighting-2/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:14:22 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=50471 For machine vision engineers, selecting the right machine vision lighting technique is crucial to capturing high-quality images that enable accurate system performance. The type of illumination used can significantly impact image contrast and recognition results. This blog will explore two key lighting methods—Bright Field and Dark Field—highlighting their differences, advantages, and how to choose the […]

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For machine vision engineers, selecting the right machine vision lighting technique is crucial to capturing high-quality images that enable accurate system performance. The type of illumination used can significantly impact image contrast and recognition results. This blog will explore two key lighting methods—Bright Field and Dark Field—highlighting their differences, advantages, and how to choose the right technique for your specific imaging needs. We’ll cover factors such as sample types, image contrast, ease of use, and versatility to help you make informed decisions for optimal machine vision setup. 

Key Differences Between Bright Field and Dark Field Lighting 

Bright Field (BF) emphasizes simplicity, illuminating the entire sample uniformly such that the sample appears as a dark image against a bright background. In contrast, Dark Field (DF) eliminates scattered light to produce a dark background with bright, high-contrast specimens, making it ideal for unstained or transparent samples. These methods form the foundation of effective lighting choices in machine vision 

Fig 1. Bright Field Illumination

1. Illumination Technique

Bright Field: Utilizes reflected light to create bright images, with the light source positioned at an angle of 45-90 degrees relative to the sample. The technique captures light reflected directly into the camera. 

Dark Field: Captures scattered light instead of reflected light. A low-angle light source (10-15 degrees) highlights edges, defects, and ridges by emphasizing scattered illumination.

2. Image Characteristics

Bright Field: Produces bright images but may struggle to define surface defects such as engravings, scratches, or indentations. Reflective surfaces often create bright spots due to excessive light reflection. 

Dark Field: Enhances visibility of edges and surface imperfections by capturing only scattered light. It is particularly effective for inspecting reflective or mirrored surfaces. 

Fig 2. Dark Field Illumination

3. Surface Analysis

Bright Field: Less effective for detecting small defects or imaging reflective surfaces, as direct reflections can obscure details. 

Dark Field: Excels at detecting subtle features like ridges, scratches, and edges, making it a preferred choice for detailed surface analysis. 

4. Setup Considerations

Bright Field: Light sources are positioned at small angles for broader coverage and reduced glare.

Dark Field: Requires lighting to be set up at 45 degrees or sometimes lower to optimize the scattering effect and minimize reflections from smooth surfaces.

Choosing the right lighting technique is essential to meet specific imaging requirements, and the next section will guide you through the factors to consider when selecting between Bright Field and Dark Field lighting for your application. 

Choosing the Right Lighting Technique 

Below are the main considerations to guide your decision: 

1. Application Purpose

Clearly define the inspection goal. For surface inspections, such as detecting defects or analyzing printed text, front illumination (light from the camera side) is ideal. Selecting the proper angle and optical properties (diffuse or direct light) depends on the surface features to be highlighted. 

For measuring dimensions (e.g., diameter, length) or detecting through-holes, back illumination is preferred as it maximizes contrast at object edges. Complex scenarios, such as imaging transparent materials, may require a combination of techniques to achieve the desired result.

2. Illumination Angle

Bright Field: In front light setups, light reflected from flat surfaces is collected by the optics, creating dark areas for features like scratches that scatter light outside the lens’s acceptance angle. In backlight setups, bright field collects light blocked or transmitted by the sample, emphasizing opaque or transparent areas. 

Dark Field: In front light setups, scattered light from non-flat features is captured, highlighting these areas as bright on a dark background. In backlight setups, light scattered by non-flat features is similarly enhanced against a dark field. 

3. Wavelength and Optical Performance

Choosing the right wavelength is crucial for optimizing the optical system. Monochromatic lighting simplifies the system by reducing chromatic aberrations, improving stability and efficiency.

Factors to consider include the sample’s surface properties (opaque or reflective), the desired resolution (shorter wavelengths offer higher resolution), system complexity, and the availability of illuminators at specific wavelengths.

4. Working Distance

For dark field illumination, a small working distance (typically within an inch) is often required. The dark field LEDs should be mounted at an angle of at least 45 degrees or more to achieve the desired scattering effect.

By carefully analyzing these factors, machine vision engineers can select the lighting technique that best suits their specific application needs.

Conclusion 

Whether you need Bright Field or Dark Field illumination, understanding factors like application purpose, illumination angle, wavelength, and working distance ensures you capture the best image quality for your needs. 

With over two decades of experience in designing and developing LED lights and structured light lasers, ProPhotonix is a trusted partner for machine vision lighting solutions. Our experts can help you design the ideal setup to enhance image quality, improve throughput rates, and achieve your vision system goals. Contact us today for personalized advice and support. 

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Introducing the COBRA Slim UVC: High-Performance LED Line Light with Advanced UV Technology https://www.prophotonix.com/introducing-cobra-slim-uvc-led-line-light/ Mon, 28 Oct 2024 08:00:08 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=43623 ProPhotonix has unveiled its latest innovation in LED technology – the COBRA Slim UVC. Built on the market-leading COBRA Slim platform, this line light harnesses advanced UV-C LED technology enabling system designers to address a whole new range of line scan applications across industries. Extreme Brightness and Extreme Uniformity  Available in UV-C wavelengths of 265nm […]

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ProPhotonix has unveiled its latest innovation in LED technology – the COBRA Slim UVC. Built on the market-leading COBRA Slim platform, this line light harnesses advanced UV-C LED technology enabling system designers to address a whole new range of line scan applications across industries.

Extreme Brightness and Extreme Uniformity 

Available in UV-C wavelengths of 265nm and 275nm, as well as UV-B at 310nm, the COBRA Slim UVC delivers up to 61mW/cm² of highly uniform light, setting a new standard for intensity and efficiency in linescan imaging. Its slim, compact design allows for seamless installation in tight spaces without compromising on power. The COBRA Slim UVC is ideal for a broad range of applications, including surface inspection, pharmaceutical packaging, fabric inspection, food and beverage inspection, currency verification, and even sterilization and disinfection tasks. 

Key Features: 

  • Wavelengths: 265nm, 275nm and 310nm
  • Intensity: Up to 61mW/cm2
  • Design: Slim and Compact
  • Field Adjustable: Focusing Distance 
  • Modular: Available in lengths up to 6m 
  • Current Monitoring & Error Detection 

Key Applications: 

  • Surface Inspection
  • Pharmaceutical & Medical Package Inspection
  • Textile & Fabric Inspection 
  • Food & Beverage Inspection 
  • Currency & Document Verification 
  • Sterilization and Disinfection 

Highly Versatile and Modular Design 

Designed for precision and reliability, the COBRA Slim UV-C is a game-changer, offering extreme brightness, unmatched uniformity, and a range of configurations to meet your advanced machine vision needs. The modular nature of the COBRA Slim UVC enables customization up to 6 meters in length, while its field-adjustable focusing distance ensures optimal performance across various applications. Additionally, for enhanced functionality, the COBRA Slim UV-C offers Ethernet control and an optional strobing function to further boost intensity. 

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Mastering Multispectral Imaging: A Guide to Optimized Lighting https://www.prophotonix.com/mastering-multispectral-imaging-a-guide-to-optimized-lighting/ Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:00:12 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=16345 The evolution of multispectral cameras has paved the way for groundbreaking advancements across various industries ranging from food and beverage, agriculture, industrial inspection to scientific research. In this blog, we delve deep into the intricate relationship between multispectral lighting and multispectral imaging. Learn how a correctly configured line light can help reduce costs and system […]

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The evolution of multispectral cameras has paved the way for groundbreaking advancements across various industries ranging from food and beverage, agriculture, industrial inspection to scientific research. In this blog, we delve deep into the intricate relationship between multispectral lighting and multispectral imaging. Learn how a correctly configured line light can help reduce costs and system complexity while achieving crisp, clear images. 

Understanding Multispectral Imaging 

Illumination plays a pivotal role in the success of any multispectral imaging system. The use of specific wavelengths can trigger a known response from the target material, allowing for the identification and differentiation of its various properties. Thus, specifying lighting correctly becomes increasingly important for optimized system performance, which in turn leads to enhanced detection accuracy and throughput. 

Selecting the Correct Wavelength 

Multispectral lighting needs to be tailored to the material being imaged. For example, if you are trying to determine the moisture content in grain, then the multispectral imaging system would require a light source with a wavelength that interacts with water. 

COBRA Multispec can be configured to specific to application needs.

Explore Different Multispectral Imaging Applications 

Depending on your application, using a hyperspectral LED line light can be helpful in identifying the optimum wavelength and then specifying a multispectral line light can enhance system efficiency and simplicity. But in some cases, hyperspectral imaging is not always necessary.  

From multispectral imaging with a single monochromatic camera to IR imaging with a single light source and two cameras, the wavelengths and price can vary significantly. We recommend working closely with a lighting manufacturer like ProPhotonix where expert applications engineers can correctly configure multispectral lighting based on your application requirements. 

Learn more with our Whitepaper  – “A Guide to Lighting for your Multispectral Imaging System”  

Written by ProPhotonix’ expert Applications Engineers, our new whitepaper A Guide to Lighting for your Multispectral Imaging System discusses the importance of specifying the correct multispectral lighting with specific cameras to reduce system costs and simplify setup. Through four real-world applications, this whitepaper provides a guide to navigating multispectral imaging system setup, allowing you to optimize your unique multispectral lighting requirements.  

 

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How to Implement Multispectral Machine Vision Successfully https://www.prophotonix.com/how-to-implement-multispectral-machine-vision-successfully/ Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:14 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=15895 Today’s complex machine vision applications demand unconventional wavelength bands, combinations of visible and non-visible wavelengths like UV, NIR, or SWIR or exclusively require non-visible wavelengths. Multispectral machine vision cameras are well suited for meeting the increasing demands of diverse spectral capabilities, but they are often associated with high costs.   The key to cost-efficient and effective […]

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Today’s complex machine vision applications demand unconventional wavelength bands, combinations of visible and non-visible wavelengths like UV, NIR, or SWIR or exclusively require non-visible wavelengths. Multispectral machine vision cameras are well suited for meeting the increasing demands of diverse spectral capabilities, but they are often associated with high costs.  

The key to cost-efficient and effective multispectral machine vision isn’t just in the cameras; it also includes illumination. In this blog, we will guide you through the successful implementation of highly efficient multispectral lighting for machine vision and multispectral imaging solutions

Steps for Efficient Machine Vision Implementation  

When it comes to multispectral imaging solutions and multispectral machine vision implementation, lighting often takes a backseat to camera setup. However, this oversight can prove costly. Opting for quality multispectral illumination solutions upfront not only saves costs but also enhances the overall efficiency and accuracy of machine vision systems. Here’s how to set up efficient multispectral machine vision systems- 

1. Set Inspection Goals

Depending on the specific application, a multispectral machine vision system can inspect for defects, contaminants and irregularities in a sample. It is crucial to assess your machine vision application’s unique requirements. Consider factors such as the type of objects you’ll be inspecting, the environmental conditions, and the desired output. Take print inspection for example, if you are looking to detect any minute errors or imperfections within a printed work, RBG machine vision lighting is the best way to do it.

2. Estimate Inspection Time

When estimating inspection time, take into account the type of inspection needed. For some applications, inspection of the machine vision system cannot slow down the production line. LED technology provides greater opportunities to select specific wavelengths allowing more precise inspection or multiple inspections to be carried out at the same time. For example, a single COBRA MultiSpec LED line light configured with specific IR wavelengths as well as visible light can be utilized to inspect hazelnuts identifying dirt, stones, shells and other materials for removal, can all be completed in a single pass. 

Fig 1. Inspection time varies depending on the goals of machine vision

3. Define Features or Defects

Machine vision systems can be used for a wide range of inspection applications. In meat and fish inspection, for example, a machine vision system helps in identifying fat and water content, analyzing presence of bone or packaging or cuts and inspecting any potential damage. Clear specification of a defect for the object to be inspected is essential before investing in any of the hardware.

  • What are the most common defects of the object?
  • What features distinguish a good part from a bad part?

4. Select a Proper Lighting Source and Technique

Conduct an illumination study and choose a feature-appropriate light solution with suitable brightness and sufficient contrast that generates accurate and reproducible inspection results with good control of the environment. High quality illumination which allows seamless contrast optimization is critical to maximize inspection quality, speed and reliability.

Fig 2. Contrast is a key consideration when choosing a lighting technique

The most commonly used illumination techniques are back lighting, front lighting, diffuse lighting, bright field and dark field lighting. LED lighting is highly efficient in providing directional front lighting including bright field and dark field. Quite often, a simple re-positioning of the light source in relation to the camera can result in a far superior light- or dark-field image. Therefore, it is important to have a light source that is small, compact, and provides a greater degree of flexibility in terms of where it can be positioned within the larger machine vision system. For example, the narrow profile of the COBRA platform allows for the light source to be placed in an almost co-axial position to the camera. This flexibility in light vs camera orientation can be of significant benefit to the quality of image obtained.   

Depending on the application, the uniformity and intensity of the LED source can be manipulated to get the best contrast. The use of chip-on-board LED technology allows us to achieve maximum light from as small a source as possible. Chip-on-board LEDs also allow for excellent spectral uniformity even when using multiple LEDs of different wavelengths. 

Fig 3. LED Packaging Methods

5. Find Proper Optics

After choosing the perfect LED lighting solution for your application, it is time to choose the optics to minimize line width and spectral uniformity. Depending on the application, this could be a specific lens position or diffuser type. Selective diffusers, such as the 30:1 diffuser for example, allows one to achieve a fully uniform spectrum along the line of the illumination, but without broadening the line width itself.

Fig 4. Specular Reflection (left) and Diffuse Reflection (right)

6. Choose a Camera

This depends on the positioning of the inspection/manufacturing process- whether it is in-line or off-line. An 8-bit analog camera offers a standard frame rate of 30 FPS, which has its own limitations. Choosing a light source that gives good illumination where the camera’s spectral response is highest reduces noise and results in a higher-quality image. LED technology is highly capable of boosting the spectrum which in turn compensates for any shortcomings in a camera’s response sensitivity.

7. Build a Prototype

Once optics are chosen, consider the environment to design the mechanical configuration. The mechanics of lighting solutions deal with not only how to hold and maintain relative positions between LEDs and optics, but also, how to protect the product from the environment and to provide thermal management. Since LEDs typically generate less heat than their halogen incumbents, for example, there can be significantly less demand on the cooling systems associated with the multispectral machine vision system. 

8. Integrate all the Components

Choose image processing software and algorithms that complement the selected hardware. Additionally, pay attention to proper installation, calibration, and testing procedures. Ensure compatibility and integration between the multispectral lighting solution and cameras to maximize efficiency and cost savings.

9. Test and Calibrate

There are four main factors that influence production line speed and reliability in relation to lighting systems- light technology, processing time, downtime and changeover time. Proper installation and calibration are the keys to a successful multispectral machine vision system. 

Setting Up the Multispectral System 

Within machine vision systems, inappropriate or poor-quality lighting can often result in longer processing times and reduced throughput. We recommend developing the lighting solution early in the vision system design process. 

Ensure Consistent Lighting Conditions  

Consider the fundamentals of wavelength, angle of illumination and uniformity of the lighting system- wavelength, angle of illumination, uniformity, speed & reliability. 

Fig 5. Visible image (left); false color image of clearly distinguished rice and maggots (right)

Because the product on production lines is moving, there are three solutions to ensure a good image is obtained. The first option is to stop the product. In some cases, this is not appropriate. The second option is to strobe the light source and as such freeze the motion. Strobing can be an extremely useful tool. If used correctly, it can offer increased intensity and longer illuminator lifetimes; however, if used incorrectly it can result in failure of the light or reduced lifetime. The third option is to utilize a line scan system which will take a continuous image of the production line. These vision systems are well-suited to inspections at higher speeds. 

Budget Considerations and Cost Analysis 

Utilization of LED-based machine vision systems should result in reduced costs, the elimination of subjective judgment, and allow production lines to run free of fatigue. When designing a machine vision system, it is important that the best solution should consider not only the up-front costs of the system, but also the lifetime costs in comparison to alternative solutions, as well as the measured impact on the business or research. 

Identifying and Overcoming Potential Challenges 

It is important to consider the potential challenges including physical constraints, object characteristics as well as ergonomics and safety aspects of the machine vision system. The size and shape of the machine vision workspace, lighting working distance, target object orientation (whether it is moving or stationery or indexed), light source positioning, potential light contamination, eye safety are some of the most common challenges. 

  • An LED multispectral machine vision system can be operated in either continuous mode or strobe mode. In strobe mode it is possible to achieve short periods of higher intensity, and by synchronizing sequential pulses of varying wavelengths, one can also obtain multispectral images using a simple monochrome camera. 
  • The use of halogen lighting, or even the presence of high levels of ambient lighting, can require the use of high- or low-band pass filters to remove unwanted wavelengths. However, by switching to a multispectral LED solution, and selecting only those wavelengths required, the need for filters could be completely eliminated; resulting in a simpler, more affordable, and safer multispectral machine vision system.  
  • Easy access to the machine vision system components allows for regular cleaning to get rid of any build up or dust that may hamper image quality and light intensity. 
  • Safety features can be integrated into the light through a blend of electronics, optics, and software, ensuring the Illuminator isn’t accidentally overdriven to avert potential catastrophic failure within the host system. ProPhotonix prioritizes safety within its designs, employing measures such as continuous thermal monitoring of substrate temperatures, flagged alarms controlled by software, and safe shutdown procedures.

Conclusion  

While setting up machine vision cameras is relatively straightforward, the critical impact of lighting technology on system performance is frequently underestimated. Choosing the right lighting technologies can streamline processes, reduce errors, and minimize maintenance expenses, proving to be a smart investment. 

ProPhotonix, committed to enhancing efficiency while prioritizing safety, integrates cutting-edge safety features into its multispectral LED illumination solutions. Our team of experts can guide you through the intricacies of selecting the most suitable lighting for your machine vision system, helping you achieve optimal results. We work in partnership with our customers understanding their specific application needs and supporting them through specification to completion of their multispectral machine vision systems. Explore further into our offerings encompassing multispectral imaging solutions and hyperspectral imaging solutions. Contact us and receive free professional advice now.

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Hyperspectral Imaging Technology in the Food Industry – Opportunities and Challenges https://www.prophotonix.com/hyperspectral-imaging-technology-in-the-food-industry-opportunities-and-challenges/ Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:08 +0000 https://www.prophotonix.com/?p=15362 In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, technology is revolutionizing the way we produce, process, and ensure the safety of our food. Traditional food safety and quality detection methods had long detection cycles, couldn’t preserve the integrity of food and often resulted in a lot of waste. As food safety incidents posed new challenges, […]

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In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, technology is revolutionizing the way we produce, process, and ensure the safety of our food. Traditional food safety and quality detection methods had long detection cycles, couldn’t preserve the integrity of food and often resulted in a lot of waste. As food safety incidents posed new challenges, hyperspectral imaging– a non-destructive, advanced optical imaging technology- gained significant traction as a means to ensuring safe, nutritious, and high-quality food products. 

In this blog, the second in our series of Hyperspectral vs Multispectral Imaging, we will explore hyperspectral imaging’s potential to address critical challenges in the food industry, with LED illumination aiding quality control, food safety and traceability. 

Applications of Hyperspectral Imaging in the Food Industry  

The food industry operates on precision, consistency, and quality assurance. Hyperspectral imaging is a sophisticated technology that captures detailed spectral information of an object, pixel by pixel. Unlike traditional imaging that captures color information in just a few bands, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) splits the electromagnetic spectrum into numerous narrow bands, unveiling unique spectral signatures of materials. This capability allows for precise identification and characterization of substances based on their spectral fingerprints. LED technology is largely considered as the most efficient, sustainable and configurable light source for hyperspectral imaging as it not only ensures the efficiency of production processes but also safeguards consumer health and builds trust in the market. 

Green and red apples _ prophotonix
Fig 1. Hyperspectral imaging helps inspect fruits and vegetables in a non-invasive manner

Quality control and inspection

Hyperspectral imaging enables the rapid identification of foreign materials, such as glass, plastic, or metal, that might inadvertently find their way into food products during processing or packaging. By analyzing the spectral characteristics of substances, HSI can be used to detect contaminants like molds, fungus, and other unwanted agents that might compromise food safety. This technique can also assess the freshness and ripeness of fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items by analyzing subtle changes in their spectral profiles. Illumination uniformity is essential for precise control and inspection and chip-on-board LED technology offers exceptional uniformity for leading-edge imaging quality. 

Food safety and traceability  

Hyperspectral imaging can detect bacterial contamination on food surfaces, helping prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. Grain crops are easily infected by fungi during growth and storage, leading to yield, nutritional decline and potential health risk. LED illumination offers the flexibility to work over the entire spectral range with a market-leading signal-to-noise ratio across the spectrum. This makes LED lighting an ideal light source to detect bacterial or fungal contamination in early stages. 

Figure 2. Top 15 foods that caused outbreak-associated illnesses, 2009–2018 (Source: CDC)

Regulatory compliance is a critical aspect of the food industry. Hyperspectral imaging can assist in ensuring that food products meet the required quality and safety standards. HSI can also aid in tracing the origin of food products, facilitating transparency in the supply chain and assisting in cases of recalls. 

Shelf life prediction and optimization  

Hyperspectral imaging can help monitor food products through various stages of preparation, processing and packaging before they make it to market shelves, providing insights into optimal storage conditions and shelf-life extension strategies. By identifying spoiled or suboptimal products early, the technique contributes to reducing waste and optimizing the supply chain. As a cool technology, LED based solutions generate less heat which makes them particularly beneficial for heat-sensitive applications with spoilage and waste issues. 

Figure 3. LED based hyperspectral imaging solutions are well suited for sorting or grading of fish

Considerations for Implementing Hyperspectral Imaging in the Food Industry  

Implementing hyperspectral imaging requires understanding the specific requirements of the application. Factors like type of illumination, working distance, the object of interest, desired analysis (e.g., water content, chemical composition), camera technology, and lighting conditions must be considered. For example, are you looking to detect the presence of water content or measure its quantity? Determine the appropriate camera technology, lens, and lighting conditions for your use case. 

Evaluating return on investment  

Adoption of hyperspectral imaging involves costs, from equipment to training. Foodborne illnesses are costly and preventable. It’s essential to evaluate the potential benefits against these costs to determine the technology’s true value. Consider the initial equipment and setup costs, training expenses, and ongoing maintenance. Measure these costs against the benefits of enhanced quality control, reduced waste, and improved process efficiency.  

The type of illumination used makes a big difference in the long run, for example, LED lights tend to offer superior lifetime value and extended lifetimes as compared with traditional lighting technologies. Halogen lights offer low cost and flat spectrum, but they are most likely to need replacement every 8,000 hours compared to 50,000 hours of LED lighting which means significant throughput loss in downtime as halogens get replaced. To sum up, LED solutions offer superior lifetime value, extended lifetimes and significantly reduced downtimes and lower overall costs. 

Safety and Sustainability 

Safety is paramount in the food industry and mercury and halogen lamps pose inherent risks. The World Health Organization considers mercury to be one of the top ten chemicals or groups of chemicals of major health concern as it is highly toxic to humans and our environment. In addition, halogens degrade air quality by promoting surface ozone formation. Furthermore, the glass used in halogen bulbs can prove a hazard while the dangers of broken halogen bulbs contaminating food produce is also an ever-present concern. LED solutions are safer and more environmentally friendly, they do not pose any of these risks. 

Figure 4. COBRA HyperSpec by ProPhotonix

Importance of expert advice to choose the appropriate solution  

The complexity of hyperspectral imaging demands expert guidance. Collaborating with knowledgeable professionals helps in selecting the right equipment, optimizing processes, and ensuring successful integration. ProPhotonix experts specialize in hyperspectral technology and their expertise can help you select the right illumination method optimized to your imaging application to address and troubleshoot any potential challenges. 

Conclusion  

Hyperspectral imaging technology has emerged as a game-changer in the food industry, addressing critical challenges and unlocking new possibilities. From ensuring quality and safety to enhancing traceability and shelf life, LED based hyperspectral imaging empowers the industry to meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory standards.  

For expert advice tailored to your specific needs in harnessing hyperspectral imaging for the food industry, contact ProPhotonix. Our experienced team is ready to guide you towards optimized LED solutions that elevate your food production, quality control, and consumer safety practices. Explore further into our offerings encompassing multispectral imaging solutions and hyperspectral imaging solutionsContact us and receive free professional advice now.

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