Patent US6022124A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6022124A
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US
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Machine-vision ring-reflector illumination system and method
Assignee: Datalogic Automation Inc
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Filing: 1997-08-19
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Granted: 2000-02-08
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Expires: 2017-08-19
Abstract
Abstract An illumination method and apparatus for machine-vision systems, including a ring-light source (e.g., LEDs arranged in one or more circular rows), and a reflective-ring focusing element. The illumination source exhibits multidirectional ring-illumination properties which are useful for illumination of small components (which are being inspected or measured) without unwanted shadows. One embodiment provides a darkfield illumination system. One embodiment of the present invention uses a strobed (or pulsed) power supply to drive the LEDs. Yet another embodiment of the present invention uses a xenon strobe ring-light source and a backplane slit in place of the row of LEDs 25. In one such xenon strobe embodiment, a color filter is also placed in series with the light path in order to obtain a monochromatic light. While xenon flashtube light sources tend to exhibit a five per cent (5%) flash-to-flash variation in intensity which makes accurate measurements of certain characteristics difficult, they are useful in certain cases where intense white, or especially ultraviolet, light is desired. Strobed LEDs provide very little flash-to-flash variation in intensity. The compact ring-light generator has little, if any, shadowing. The present invention also provides an inexpensive apparatus and method for changing the light-source-to-optical-axis angle.
Inventors
- 👤 Charles T. Bourn
- 👤 Gary A. Lebens
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 17:27
CPC Classifications
G; G03; G03B; G03B15/00; G03B15/02; G03B15/03; G01; G01N; G01N21/00; G01N21/84; G01N21/88; G01N21/8806; G01N21/90; G01N21/9036; G01N21/909; G01R; G01R31/00; G01R31/28; G01R31/302; G01R31/308
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 64
Claim 1
Independent Claim
196 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
196 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
195 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily within an angle of about 5 degrees from a focal centerline of each individual LED.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
195 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily within an angle of about 5 degrees from a focal centerline of each individual LED.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
188 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and further comprising a focusing element that includes a cylindrical ring lens having at least one convex face.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
188 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and further comprising a focusing element that includes a cylindrical ring lens having at least one convex face.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
166 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector has a surface that enhances its reflectivity at one or more selected wavelengths of the ring light source.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
166 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector has a surface that enhances its reflectivity at one or more selected wavelengths of the ring light source.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
159 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector and ring light source are configured to produce a darkfield illumination.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
159 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector and ring light source are configured to produce a darkfield illumination.
Claim 11
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for illuminating an object located along, an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of emitting light include emitting light from one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for illuminating an object located along, an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of emitting light include emitting light from one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 13
Independent Claim
166 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of emitting light include emitting light from one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has an focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is perpendicular to the optical axis, and further comprising the step of focusing the emitted light to a circular line.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
166 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of emitting light include emitting light from one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has an focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is perpendicular to the optical axis, and further comprising the step of focusing the emitted light to a circular line.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
207 words
A machine-vision illumination system comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
207 words
A machine-vision illumination system comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
206 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily within an angle of about 5 degrees from a focal centerline of each individual LED.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
206 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily within an angle of about 5 degrees from a focal centerline of each individual LED.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
199 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and further comprising a focusing element that includes a cylindrical ring lens having at least one convex face.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
199 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis, and further comprising a focusing element that includes a cylindrical ring lens having at least one convex face.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
177 words
A machine-vision illumination system comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector has a surface that enhances its reflectivity at one or more selected wavelengths of the ring light source.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
177 words
A machine-vision illumination system comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector has a surface that enhances its reflectivity at one or more selected wavelengths of the ring light source.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
170 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector and ring light source are configured to produce a darkfield illumination.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
170 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector and ring light source are configured to produce a darkfield illumination.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
188 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a plurality of adjoining conical sections.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
188 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a plurality of adjoining conical sections.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
50 words
The ring reflector as recited in claim 13, wherein the plurality of adjoining conical sections includes a first conical section having a reflective surface at a first conical angle to the optical axis, and a second conical section having reflective surface at a second conical angle to the optical axis.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
187 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes; and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a plurality of reflective facets.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
187 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes; and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a plurality of reflective facets.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
27 words
The ring reflector as recited in claim 15, wherein, for a plurality of the facets, a line normal to the facet surface passes through the optical axis.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
209 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes; and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a first conical section, and wherein the ring reflector further comprises a second conical section, the first and second conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
209 words
A ring reflector for use in reflecting light from a ring light source, the ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects an optical axis, the ring reflector comprising: a substantially circular exit opening though which the optical axis passes; and a reflective surface surrounding the exit opening, the reflective surface extending from approximately a first circle centered on the optical axis and having a first radius, to approximately a second circle centered on the optical axis and having a second radius, the second radius being larger than the first radius, the first radius being larger than the difference between the second radius and the first radius, whereby the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect the reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the reflective surface comprises a first conical section, and wherein the ring reflector further comprises a second conical section, the first and second conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
164 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having, an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector includes a reflective surface comprising a plurality of conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
164 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having, an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector includes a reflective surface comprising a plurality of conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
178 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, and further comprising: a ring-reflector holder that holds one of a plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors in optical communication with the ring-light source, said plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors including the first ring reflector.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
178 words
An illumination source for illuminating an object in a machine-vision system, the system having an optical axis, comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, and further comprising: a ring-reflector holder that holds one of a plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors in optical communication with the ring-light source, said plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors including the first ring reflector.
Claim 37
Independent Claim
121 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of reflecting the emitted light includes reflecting the light from a plurality of reflective conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 38
Independent Claim
121 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis, wherein the step of reflecting the emitted light includes reflecting the light from a plurality of reflective conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
127 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis; and (c) changing a first ring reflective surface having a first reflective configuration to a second ring reflective surface having a different reflective configuration than that of the first ring reflective surface.
Claim 40
Independent Claim
127 words
A method for illuminating an object located along an optical axis, comprising the steps of: (a) emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; (b) reflecting the emitted light from the light source inwards and generally towards the object at the optical axis or in an area around the optical axis; and (c) changing a first ring reflective surface having a first reflective configuration to a second ring reflective surface having a different reflective configuration than that of the first ring reflective surface.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
175 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector includes a reflective surface comprising a plurality of conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
175 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, wherein the ring reflector includes a reflective surface comprising a plurality of conical sections each having a unique conical angle.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
189 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting, light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring, reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, and further comprising: a ring-reflector holder that holds one of a plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors in optical communication with the ring-light source, said plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors including the first ring reflector.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
189 words
A machine-vision illumination system, comprising: an imaging device; an image processor coupled to the imaging device; and an illumination source coupled to the image processor, the illumination source comprising: a ring light source emitting, light from a plurality of points or from a line, the points or line being substantially in a plane that intersects the optical axis, each of the points or the line disposed at least a first distance from the optical axis and less than a second distance from the optical axis; and a first ring reflector, the ring, reflector having an exit opening though which the optical axis passes, the emitted light from the ring light source being generally directed centered on lines that intersect a reflecting surface of the ring reflector, the ring reflector reflecting the emitted light from the light source though the exit opening inwards and generally towards the optical axis or an area around the optical axis, and further comprising: a ring-reflector holder that holds one of a plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors in optical communication with the ring-light source, said plurality of interchangeable ring reflectors including the first ring reflector.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
37 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 1, wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily two or more different colors selected from the following group: infra-red, red, amber, yellow, green, blue, violet, ultraviolet, and white.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
39 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 1, wherein the ring reflector reflective surface is changeable from a first ring reflective surface configuration to a second ring reflective configuration different than that of the first ring reflective surface configuration.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
39 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 4, wherein the ring reflector reflective surface is changeable from a first ring reflective surface configuration to a second ring reflective configuration different than that of the first ring reflective surface configuration.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
39 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 5, wherein the ring reflector reflective surface is changeable from a first ring reflective surface configuration to a second ring reflective configuration different than that of the first ring reflective surface configuration.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
39 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 18, wherein the ring reflector reflective surface is changeable from a first ring reflective surface configuration to a second ring reflective configuration different than that of the first ring reflective surface configuration.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
34 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 19, wherein the ring light source comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged substantially along a circle disposed perpendicular to and centered on the optical axis.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
33 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 29, wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
33 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 29, wherein each LED has a focal centerline emission axis along which emission is centered, and each LED's emission axis is perpendicular to the optical axis.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
35 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 29, wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is two or more selected from the following: infra-red, red, amber, yellow, green, blue, violet, ultraviolet, or white in color.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
32 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 29, wherein the light emitted from the LEDs is primarily within an angle of about 5 degrees from a focal centerline of each individual LED.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
25 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 19, further comprising a focusing element that includes a cylindrical ring lens having at least one convex face.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
30 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 19, wherein the ring reflector has a surface that enhances its reflectivity at one or more selected wavelengths of the ring light source.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
23 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 19, wherein the ring reflector and ring light source are configured to produce a darkfield illumination.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
39 words
The illumination source as recited in claim 19, wherein the ring reflector reflective surface is changeable from a first ring reflective surface configuration to a second ring reflective configuration different than that of the first ring reflective surface configuration.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
71 words
The ring reflector as recited in claim 13, wherein the plurality of adjoining conical sections includes a first conical section having a reflective surface at a first conical angle to the optical axis, and a second conical section having reflective surface at a second conical angle to the optical axis, and wherein both the first and second conical sections are configured to reflect light originally directed parallel to the optical axis.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
71 words
The ring reflector as recited in claim 13, wherein the plurality of adjoining conical sections includes a first conical section having a reflective surface at a first conical angle to the optical axis, and a second conical section having reflective surface at a second conical angle to the optical axis, and wherein both the first and second conical sections are configured to reflect light originally directed perpendicular to the optical axis.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method for illuminating an object as recited in claim 6, wherein the object is an electrical connector, and further comprising the step of acquiring a machine-vision image of the electrical connector.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method for illuminating an object as recited in claim 21, wherein the object is an electrical connector, and further comprising the step of acquiring a machine-vision image of the electrical connector.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method for illuminating an object as recited in claim 21, wherein the step of changing the ring reflective surface comprises replacing a ring reflector.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method for illuminating an object as recited in claim 21, wherein the step of changing the ring reflective surface comprises changing a compression on a pliable gasket.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2003-02-07 | 2003-08-09 | 2004-02-08 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2007-02-07 | 2007-08-09 | 2008-02-08 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2011-02-07 | 2011-08-09 | 2012-02-08 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |