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Pattern projectors for structured light

A pattern projector casts a defined light pattern onto the inspected object: a line, a dot grid, stripes or a random pattern. From the deformation of the pattern in the camera image the height of the object can be calculated, and on smooth, featureless surfaces the pattern provides the contrast a stereo camera needs to match image points. VISIONTECHNIK offers pattern projectors from OPT in white, red, green and blue.

21 products

Color
Housing length (mm)
Power consumption (W)
Supply voltage (V)

Products

Pattern projection: choosing by inspection task

Where structured light helps

In every task where a height or shape is to be derived from a camera image: fill levels, warpage, presence of a component at the correct height, seams and edges. A line projector with a camera at an angle forms the basis of laser triangulation; stripe and random patterns work with area scan cameras and stereo arrangements.

The light colour is chosen by surface and ambient light: red and blue can be separated from ambient light with bandpass filters in front of the camera, blue scatters less on shiny metals, white suits colour cameras.

Selection criteria

These questions matter most for the choice:

  • Pattern type: line, dot, grid or stripes, matching the evaluation method
  • Light colour: white, red, green or blue, matched to surface, camera and filter
  • Working distance and pattern width: the pattern has to cover the inspection area with sufficient sharpness
  • Operating mode: continuous light or strobe operation with a controller
  • Laser class for laser projectors and protective measures

Typical applications

Pattern projectors are used, among other things, for:

  • 3D capture with laser triangulation and fringe projection
  • Height and warpage inspection on circuit boards and housings
  • Contrast enhancement on smooth surfaces for stereo cameras
  • Presence and position checks via pattern deformation
  • Edge and seam tracking in robotics

Frequently asked questions about pattern projection

Which light colour is the right one?
Red is the standard for mono cameras and bandpass filters, blue for shiny metals and fine structures, white for colour cameras. Green lies in the sensitivity maximum of many sensors.
Do I need a controller?
For continuous light a power supply is enough; for strobe operation, brightness control and synchronisation with the camera a lighting controller is intended, listed in the lighting accessories category.
How accurate does the height measurement get?
That depends on pattern width, camera resolution, the angle between projector and camera and the calibration, not on the projector alone. We check the arrangement in the context of the task.

Next technical step

Still unsure which model fits?

Tell us the inspection task, object size, required resolution, cycle rate and the computer environment you have. We narrow down suitable models across manufacturers, check interface, lens and lighting together and say openly what still needs clarifying before a decision.

Request a suitable pattern projector