Integrated Multispectral System
Multispectral technology plays an increasingly vital role in the development and evolution of machine vision systems. This approach relies on the use of illuminators capable of generating light at different wavelengths, including those outside the visible spectrum and at significant distances from one another. The combined analysis of images captured using multispectral technology enables, amongst other key functions, the distinction between substances of different compositions, the highlighting of specific surface defects, the ability to see through materials, the highlighting of organic material, and so on.
Every material has a different spectral response, absorbing, reflecting or transmitting electromagnetic radiation in a specific way. Consequently, the use of multispectral illumination enhances both the quantity and quality of the information that can be derived from an image of a given object.
With LEDs of different wavelengths integrated into a single product – specifically ranging from UV-C to SWIR – our range of multispectral illuminators has led to a significant improvement in the accuracy and reliability of automated inspection processes, subject to high standards of quality and performance. Furthermore, these products enable the implementation of machine vision-based inspections that would have been impossible just a few years ago.
To meet the sector’s ongoing demand for a solution capable of bringing together all the key components required for multispectral analysis, we have developed the Integrated Multispectral System.
This new system will enable customers to have the following features within a single solution:
- An illuminator from the Multispectral Line;
- PC;
- Monitor;
- Software – developed by Genesi Elettronica;
- A NIR and/or SWIR camera.
Flexibility in selecting a camera
One of the distinctive features of the Integrated Multispectral System is the versatility in the choice and use of the camera. The system is, in fact, implemented using the Genicam standard, which ensures that the application is compatible with a range of cameras, rather than being restricted to a single device.
It follows that the customer can choose between different models and imaging technologies, depending on the material to be analysed, the wavelengths of interest and the objectives of the application.
Specifically, it is possible to use NIR and/or SWIR cameras and, should the analysis requirements change, to replace the installed camera with a different model whilst keeping the main structure of the system unchanged. This feature allows the platform to be adapted to different research and development activities, enabling comparative analyses to be carried out using cameras with different spectral sensitivities, resolutions or acquisition characteristics.
The ultimate goal of the system
The aim is to assess the effect of light on various objects and materials, and to identify the optimal wavelengths for different applications, by capturing images with the camera. To support this work, Genesi Elettronica has developed dedicated software that enables centralised management of both the illuminator’s operating parameters – adjusting wavelengths and light intensity – and the settings of the camera selected for analysis. This integration allows us to guarantee full control over the image acquisition process, ensuring repeatable test conditions and reliable results.
To offer maximum application flexibility, Genesi Elettronica’s multispectral illuminators can be configured with up to 12 programmable wavelengths, covering the spectrum from UV-C to SWIR. Customers can choose from six standard configurations (tables) or create their own set of combinations, thereby meeting their specific application requirements. This makes it possible to provide a lighting system optimised for the material, the product and the required inspection objectives.
Lighting solutions to choose from are as follows:
- BAR LIGHT – GEVXD28-MS: suitable for linear or matrix cameras, it features the illumination of a single wavelength from 0 to 100 per cent or the simultaneous illumination of more than one wavelength, up to a maximum of 12 wavelengths.
- RING LIGHT GEST220-MS: used in vision systems with matrix cameras, it allows for the illumination of a single wavelength from 0 to 100 per cent or the simultaneous illumination of more than one wavelength, up to a maximum of 12 wavelengths.
- BACKLIGHT – GB210280-MS: used for applications requiring light to come from behind the object; it features the activation of a single wavelength from 0 to 100 per cent or the simultaneous activation of more than one wavelength, up to a maximum of 12 wavelengths.
Designed to ensure reliable data acquisition, flexible configurations and maximum repeatability of analyses, the system is an ideal tool for laboratories, research centres and universities engaged in the development of advanced multispectral machine vision applications.
In conclusion, the Integrated Multispectral System offers a comprehensive platform for the multispectral analysis of materials and products, integrating lighting, a camera, software and electronic components, all in a single, ready-to-use solution.
