Image Processing
Optics and filters for automatic visual inspection
Image processing is regarded as a key technology in various branches of industry and is used, for example, in the automotive industry, scientific research, modern medical technology or quality control. Image processing is based on special camera systems whose images are automatically evaluated by software. The generated data is used by image processing systems to check and optimize production processes, identify components, read codes or guide machines.
In addition to the pure determination of position, presence control and measurement, image processing systems detect non-contact and very reliably even defective products in early production stages. The defective elements identified in this way effectively prevent further manufacturing errors or expensive returns.
Application areas of modern image processing
Image processing follows the trend of three-dimensional representation using lasers and sensors. In this way, spatial inspections can be carried out without any problems and assembled components can be recorded holistically. Even modern diagnostics is no longer conceivable without image processing systems. Image generation helps to document and evaluate medical examinations and facilitates communication between doctors and patients. In industrial microscopy, digital image processing can be used, for example, to generate true-color and detailed images that can lead to new findings.
Aspheres and freeforms as decisive system components
In order to realize image processing, high-quality optics are required to provide the best results. Perfectly imaging aspheres that can focus incident light free of spherical aberrations are ideally suited for this purpose. Following the trend towards miniaturization, image processing systems could also be solved with freeforms in the future. Their compact design enables ever smaller technical solutions with the best image quality. In addition, the results can be refined by high-quality coating processes. These include anti-reflective coatings of the optics used or wavelength-specific filter layers. Further refinements of the optics used can be realized at asphericon by high-end finishing processes, which can minimize the roughness values of the surface to a minimum, for even better imaging and focusing of the incident rays.