PPT VISION Delivers a Significantly Lower Cost Alternative to High Precision Measurement Systems for Large Wheel Inspection

    MINNETONKA, MN, August 03, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- PPT VISION utilizes two IMPACT T20 Intelligent Cameras to inspect aluminum wheels traveling on a roller conveyor, verifying model type and specifications. The vision system is required to ensure the correct model of aluminum wheel is packed into the appropriate container before shipment. The wheel patterns are very similar from one model to the other, and the only way to differentiate them is to measure hole pattern dimensions. In order to be able to differentiate the models reliably and provide accurate measurement, the vision system needs to provide a 4-micron pixel resolution, while covering an inspection area that is 200mm wide.

The two IMPACT cameras are mounted on a multi-axis motion controlled fixture located below the roller conveyor. As the wheel enters the camera FOV, the first IMPACT camera takes a picture and calculates the coordinates of the bolt holes. These coordinates are sent to the motion control PC so it can move the second IMPACT camera and position it to view each of the bolt holes individually. This second IMPACT camera has a FOV of 30 mm by 20mm. The camera measures the center of the hole, then moves to the next hole and measures the next center point. This process is repeated until all holes are measured. The center points are then fed into the Fitted Circle composite tools, where a best fit circle is generated. The diameter of the fitted circle is used to determine the wheel model.

Application Highlights:

- Using a two-camera configuration to provide a low cost alternative to high precision measurement application
- A multi-axis motion controller is used to control the camera position for precise measurement needs
- The Fitter Circle Composite Tool is used to generate a best fit circle from multiple points
- 4 microns per pixel resolution
- 10 seconds per wheel inspection cycle

PPT VISION develops and markets innovative machine vision technologies including smart cameras and high-end vision systems for a broad range of industry categories, including manufacturers of automotive components, consumer goods, electronic components, food and beverage products, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, plastics and semiconductors. For additional information contact: PPT VISION, 6301 Old Shakopee Road, Suite A, Bloomington, Minnesota 55438. Phone: 952-996-9500. FAX: 952-996-9501. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.pptvision.com.

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