Epson has developed a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated in manufacturing lines. The company 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

1. About the same compactness and weight as an RGB camera. Can be installed in manufacturing lines.
2. Integral field spectroscopy. Can focus on an area, measure the colours, and distinguish colours of a target object within the visible light range.
3. Image processing functions needed on manufacturing lines can be used along with spectral imaging functions.