SYDNEY, 12 December 2019 – Epson has developed a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated in manufacturing lines. Epson will launch its first spectroscopic camera, one that captures light across the visible spectrum, in the 2020 fiscal year ending March 2021.
Differences in colour can occur between products in different production lots in ordinary manufacturing processes. A spectroscopic camera can be used by manufacturers to perform the following inspections to control these differences to a certain extent and ensure product quality:
- Colour variation inspections
- Surface coating inspections
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. 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 go to: https://biz.nikkan.co.jp/eve/irex/english/
Picture credits
The new Epson compact and lightweight spectroscopic camera
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About Epson and Epson Australia
Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to connecting people, things and information with its original efficient, compact and precision technologies. With a lineup that ranges from inkjet printers and digital printing systems to 3LCD projectors, watches and industrial robots, the company is focused on driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in inkjet, visual communications, wearables and robotics.
Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 81,000 employees in 85 companies around the world, and is proud of its contributions to the communities in which it operates and its ongoing efforts to
Camera can easily be integrated into manufacturing lines
