The world of industrial automation is rapidly evolving, driven by the increasing need for efficiency, productivity, and resilience in the face of workforce shortages and unexpected disruptions. At the heart of this evolution lies machine vision, a technology that empowers machines to "see" and interact with their environment. Smart Vision Lights, a leading designer and manufacturer of high-brightness LED lights for industrial applications, is pushing the boundaries of machine vision with its innovative Dual OverDrive™ technology.
Traditional machine vision lighting often struggles to keep pace with the ever-increasing speeds of modern production lines. Capturing clear images of fast-moving objects requires extremely short, high-intensity light pulses. While traditional overdrive lighting can boost intensity, it often demands high currents and may not be compatible with all systems, particularly those subject to power constraints. Smart Vision Lights addresses these challenges head-on with Dual OverDrive™, a game-changing approach that offers a superior solution for modern machine vision applications.
Dual OverDrive™ seamlessly combines two distinct overdrive modes: standard OverDrive™ and Deca OverDrive. Standard OverDrive™ already delivers more than five times the light output of continuous mode, exceeding the capabilities of many competitors. Deca OverDrive takes it further, generating a 1-millisecond pulse that is a remarkable ten times brighter than continuous mode. This combination of modes provides unparalleled flexibility and control. The system begins with a powerful 1-millisecond Deca OverDrive pulse, ensuring crisp images, even at the highest speeds. If a longer exposure is needed, the system seamlessly transitions to standard OverDrive™, maintaining a high level of illumination without excessive power consumption or risk of component burnout.
The benefits extend beyond sheer brightness. The design features a novel onboard energy storage and power management system that efficiently manages power demands. This allows for high-intensity bursts of light while keeping current draw low – typically under 3A, often less than 2A— making it ideal for systems operating under strict power limitations, such as those commonly found in factories.
The real-world applications of Dual OverDrive™ technology are striking. One particularly impressive case study involved a canning line running at 100 parts per second. Replacing conventional lighting with four Dual OverDrive lights reduced motion blur, improved image clarity, and reduced exposure time from 40-50 ms to a mere 12 ms. The result? A significant boost in production efficiency and a streamlined upgrade process that was completed in less than a day.
The design of these lights also shows a commitment to ease of use. They are available in ring and linear formats, offering direct connection and control through a camera’s trigger output. The linear lights are available in a range of lengths to suit various applications. The company provides support and testing to ensure compatibility and guarantee system conformity, reflecting a commitment to helping customers achieve optimal results.
In summation, Smart Vision Lights' Dual OverDrive™ technology represents a significant leap forward in machine vision lighting. Its ability to deliver exceptionally bright, high-speed illumination with low power consumption and streamlined design makes it a compelling solution for a wide array of industrial applications. This innovative technology is helping businesses of all sizes overcome the challenges of automation and remain competitive in today's fast-paced world.
