JP2004253983A - Apparatus and method for processing image - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce costs and setting man-hours for delaying a trigger signal to a camera. <P>SOLUTION: A detection signal from a sensor 3 is converted to a digital timing signal before being inputted to a camera interface 14. The camera interface 14 has a circuit for outputting the trigger signal to the camera 2 while the output is delayed from the input of the timing signal by a specific amount of delay. The circuit includes a register for maintaining the amount of delay. When operation for designating the movement of an object in an image is made to the image generated at timing based on the amount of delay in the register, a CPU 7 changes the amount of delay in the register according to the operation in setting. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

【００８７】
なお、（１）式において、Ｎ_ｐｉｘは画像１ライン分の画素数、Ｌはカメラ２の視野の大きさ（水平方向における大きさ）、ｘ_ｃは指定位置のｘ座標、ｘ_０は指定操作が行われたときの中心点ｃのｘ座標、ｖは搬送用コンベアの速度である。
【００８８】
つぎに、図５，６の手順では、ユーザーの操作に応じて遅延量の調整を行ったが、これに代えて、撮影を行いながら、最適な遅延量を自動設定することも可能である。
図８は、この自動設定にかかる手順を示す。なお、この図８では、便宜上、ＳＴ１０１を処理のスタートとする。
【００８９】
この実施例でも、所定数の対象物を搬送しながら撮影を行う点は、前の実施例と同様である。最初のＳＴ１０１では、遅延量ｎに初期値を設定する。これにより、前記センサ３により対象物が検出されると、前記遅延量ｎに対応するタイミングで撮影が行われ、画像処理プロセッサ１１に対象物の画像が入力されることになる。なお、この実施例でも、画像処理プロセッサ１１は、先の実施例と同様に、画像が入力される都度、その入力画像をモニタ５に表示するとともに、対象物の中心点ｃの座標を抽出する。
【００９０】
ＣＰＵ７は、画像処理プロセッサ１１からの信号により画像入力を確認した後、前記中心点ｃの座標を、対象物の位置データとして取り込み、ＲＡＭ９などに保存する（ＳＴ１０２，１０３）。ここでｎが初期値のままであれば、ＳＴ１０４が「ＹＥＳ」となり、ユーザーの確定操作または矢印キーの操作に待機する。ユーザーが表示画面から遅延量が不適正であると判断して矢印キーを操作すると、ＳＴ１０５が「ＮＯ」、ＳＴ１０６が「ＹＥＳ」となってＳＴ１０７に進み、現在の遅延量ｎを１段階前の遅延量を示すｎ_０にコピーする。さらに、つぎのＳＴ１０８では、矢印キーの操作に応じて、ｎの値を更新する。
【００９１】
一方、ユーザーが、対象物が画面のほぼ中央に位置していると判断してエンターキーを操作すると、ＳＴ１０５が「ＹＥＳ」となり、現在のｎを最適遅延量として確定して処理を終了する。
なお、この実施例でも、対象物が高速で搬送されている場合には、ユーザーの操作は、複数の画像につき１回の割合となる。この場合には、操作が行われるまで、ＳＴ１０４が「ＹＥＳ」、ＳＴ１０５，１０６が「ＮＯ」となってＳＴ１０２に戻るループが繰り返される。
【００９２】
前記矢印キーの操作によりｎの値が更新されると、つぎの画像入力の際にＳＴ１０４が「ＹＥＳ」となり、ＳＴ１０９に進む。このＳＴ１０９では、遅延量ｎの更新後に得た位置データ、遅延量ｎが初期値のときに得た位置データ、および遅延量ｎ，ｎ_０を用いて、つぎの（２）式に基づき、最適遅延量ｎ_ｄを算出する。
【００９３】
【数２】

【００９４】
なお、（２）式においてｘ_ｃは画像の中央位置にあたる点のｘ座標、ｘ_１は遅延量が初期値のときの画像から抽出した中心点のｘ座標、ｘ_２は更新された遅延量による画像から抽出した中心点のｘ座標である。
【００９５】
このようにして、最適遅延量ｎ_ｄが求められると、ＳＴ１１０では、このｎ_ｄの値により前記遅延量ｎを書き換えて、処理を終了する。
【００９６】
図９は、上記の手順により遅延量が変更されるのに対応した画像の変化を示す。図９（１）は、遅延量ｎが初期値の場合の入力画像を、図９（２）は、遅延量ｎが更新された後の入力画像を、図９（３）は適正遅延量が設定された後の入力画像を、それぞれ示す。図中のｃは対象物の画像３０の中心点であり、適正遅延量に基づく図９（３）の画像では、この中心点ｃは、中心点ｃ_０とほぼ一致するようになる。
【００９７】
上記図８，９の実施例によれば、遅延量の調整操作を１回受け付けるだけで、最適遅延量を算出してトリガ信号生成回路２０に設定することができるから、ユーザーにとっての利便性を大いに高めることができる。
また、遅延量の調整操作を行うのに代えて、あらかじめ、初期値のつぎに設定する遅延量を決めておき、遅延量ｎが初期値のときの中心点ｃがｃ_０と適合しない場合には、遅延量ｎを２番目の値に自動的に更新してもよい。また、遅延量ｎが初期値のときの入力画像中の中心点ｃおよび画面の中心点ｃ_０の各ｘ座標を、前記（１）式にあてはめて、最適遅延量を算出するようにしてもよい。このようにすれば、ユーザーは、調整操作を行う必要がなくなり、設定処理を完全に自動化することができる。
【００９８】
ところで、前記カメラ２は、高速搬送される対象物を撮影する能力を持つので、１つの対象物を異なる遅延量に基づくタイミングをもって複数回撮影することも可能である。つぎに示す実施例は、このカメラの性能を利用して、１つの対象物を異なる遅延時間をもって４回撮影し、得られた画像の中から対象物が中央に位置する画像に対応する遅延量を選択するようにしている。
【００９９】
なお、この実施例を実施するには、前記カメラインターフェース１４内のトリガ信号生成回路２０に、前記遅延量ｎを保持するレジスタ２０６のほかに、４種類の遅延量を記憶するレジスタを持たせるのが望ましい。また、遅延量の設定時には、前記タイミング信号に対し、４個の遅延量に応じたタイミングによる４個のトリガ信号を順に出力するように、前記パルスカウンタ２０５や比較器２０７を設計変更する必要がある。
【０１００】
図１０は、前記４個の遅延量を用いた設定を行う場合の処理手順である。なお、この手順は、便宜上、ＳＴ２０１からスタートさせる。また、前記４個の遅延量は、制御部１０のＲＯＭ８内に標準設定されており、最初のＳＴ２０１において、この４個の遅延量が前記トリガ信号生成回路２０にセットされるものとする。
【０１０１】
トリガ信号生成回路２０では、前記４個の遅延量がセットされると、タイミング信号に応じて各遅延量に基づくタイミングによる４個のトリガ信号を連続生成して、カメラ２に出力する。カメラ２は、各トリガ信号に応じて撮影動作を行い、その結果、画像処理プロセッサ１１には、各遅延量に対応する４枚の画像が入力される。
【０１０２】
このとき、ＣＰＵ７の処理は、ＳＴ２０２からＳＴ２０３に進んでおり、画像処理プロセッサ１１に、前記各遅延量に対応する画像の表示を指示する。画像処理プロセッサ１１は、この指示に応じて、図１１に示すように、画面を４分割し、各領域にそれぞれ１枚の画像を表示する。なお、図１１の表示例でも、画像の表示画面には、その画像に対応する遅延量を示す情報３１が合わせて表示されている。
【０１０３】
ＣＰＵ７は、この表示状態下でコンソール４による選択操作を受け付ける。図１１の例では、選択中の画像の表示領域を枠状のマーカー３３により示している。ユーザーは、矢印キーにより、このマーカー３３を所望の画像に移動させた後、エンターキーを操作することにより、選択を確定する。この確定操作がなされると、ＳＴ２０４が「ＹＥＳ」となってＳＴ２０５に進み、選択された画像に対応する遅延量が最適遅延量として確定され、前記レジスタ２０６の設定値ｎとして保存される。
【０１０４】
上記の手順によれば、１つの対象物を連続撮影し、得られた４枚の画像のいずれかを選択する操作によって、最適な遅延量を設定することができるから、設定にかかる時間が大幅に削減される上、ユーザーの操作も簡単化され、遅延量の設定を効率良く行うことができる。
【０１０５】
ただし、前記４つの画像に最適な状態のものがない場合もある。このような場合には、前記４個の遅延量を、それぞれ所定の値ずつ調整し、再度、同じ処理を行うようにしてもよい。または、４つの画像の中から、適当なものを選択した上で、前記図５の手順などを実行することにより、選択により設定された遅延量を調整して、最適な画像が得られるようにしてもよい。
【０１０６】
このように、上記各実施例によれば、検査に適した画像を得るのに必要な遅延量の設定を効率良く行うことができる。また、対象物や搬送用コンベアの速度が変更されるなど、検査条件が変化した場合にも、簡単に遅延量を再設定することができるから、長期間、検査が中断することがなく、稼働効率を低下させずにすむ、という効果を得ることができる。
【０１０７】
なお、図１において説明したように、多数の検査条件を切り換えて処理しなければならない場合には、あらかじめ、条件毎に遅延量を設定して、その設定値をＰＬＣ６に保存しておくことができる。このようにすれば、検査条件が変わる都度、ＰＬＣ６から新たな条件に適合する遅延量を読み出してレジスタ２０６に設定するだけで良くなり、検査の中断する時間を、より一層短縮することができる。
【０１０８】
【発明の効果】
上記したように、この発明では、画像処理装置内に、撮像装置へのトリガ信号を遅延させる機能を設けたから、トリガ信号を遅延させるだけの目的の機器を設置したり、特別仕様の撮像装置を導入する必要がなく、コストや設置工数を削減することができる。
【０１０９】
また、この発明では、トリガ信号の遅延時間を簡単な操作により設定したり、所定回数の撮影により最適な遅延時間を自動的に設定できるようにしたから、遅延時間の設定にかかる効率や精度を向上でき、作業者の負担を軽減することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】この発明が適用された画像処理装置の構成を示すブロック図である。
【図２】トリガ信号生成回路の構成を示すブロック図である。
【図３】トリガ信号生成回路における動作を示すタイミングチャートである。
【図４】遅延量を調整するための表示画面の一例を示す図である。
【図５】遅延量の設定処理にかかる手順を示すフローチャートである。
【図６】遅延量の設定処理にかかる他の手順を示すフローチャートである。
【図７】図６の手順に使用する表示画面の一例を示す図である。
【図８】遅延量の設定処理にかかる他の手順を示すフローチャートである。
【図９】図８の手順による遅延量の変更に対応する画像の変化を示す図である。
【図１０】遅延量の設定処理にかかる他の手順を示すフローチャートである。
【図１１】図９の手順における表示画面の例を示す図である。
【符号の説明】
１ 画像処理装置
２ カメラ
３ センサ
４ コンソール
５ モニタ
６ ＰＬＣ
７ ＣＰＵ
１１ 画像処理プロセッサ
１３ パラレルインターフェース
１４ カメラインターフェース
２０ トリガ信号生成回路
２０２ 立ち上がり検出部
２０４ 周期パルス生成部
２０５ パルスカウンタ
２０６ レジスタ
２０７ 比較器[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention belongs to a technical field for imaging an object moving along a predetermined route and executing image processing for observation on the object using the obtained image. In particular, the present invention relates to a technique for setting an imaging timing for obtaining an image suitable for the observation processing.
[0002]
[Prior art]
For example, in a factory inspection line, a sensor for detecting an inspection object to be conveyed and a camera for imaging the inspection object are respectively positioned toward predetermined positions on the line, and these sensors and An inspection system is configured by connecting a camera to the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus outputs a trigger signal to the camera in accordance with a detection signal from the sensor, thereby acquiring an image for each inspection object and executing image processing for inspection.
[0003]
In the above inspection system, in order to perform a reliable inspection, it is necessary to generate an entire image of the inspection object. For this reason, in general, prior to starting the inspection, the installation position of the sensor is adjusted so that an image with the inspection object positioned at the center can be generated. However, this type of adjustment has a problem that it takes time because it must be performed while actually moving the line and the inspection system and confirming the obtained image on the monitor. Moreover, when the sensor and the monitor are separated from each other, work must be performed by two people. Further, when the moving speed of the line is changed depending on the type of inspection object and the purpose of the inspection, there arises a problem that the position of the sensor must be readjusted.
[0004]
In order to solve such a problem, it has been conventionally proposed to delay the output of the trigger signal to the camera. In general, a detection signal from a sensor is input to a PLC (programmable logic controller), and the detection signal is delayed by an amount of delay set by a rotary encoder or the like in the PLC and then input to an image processing apparatus. The method is taken.
[0005]
In Patent Document 1 below, a delay circuit for delaying the trigger signal is provided in the camera, and the delay time set in the delay circuit is adjusted by a control signal from the image processing apparatus.
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-79175
[0007]
Further, in Patent Document 2 below, the shutter on the camera side is opened for a predetermined time according to a detection signal from the sensor, and strobe light emission is performed at a timing delayed from the input of the detection signal. By adjusting the signal output timing, an image at the time when each object reaches a predetermined position is generated.
[0008]
[Patent Document 2]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-55566
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
When the detection signal is delayed by the PLC, a device for setting the delay time of the detection signal such as the rotary encoder is required, which causes a problem that the cost is increased. Also, as in Patent Document 1, when a delay circuit is provided on the camera side, it is necessary to prepare a special camera, and there is a problem that it cannot be handled by a general-purpose camera. In addition, since it is necessary to provide wiring for sending a signal for adjusting the delay time between the camera and the image processing apparatus, there is a problem that the cost increases and the man-hour for installing the camera increases. There is.
[0010]
Even in the method of Patent Document 2, a light source for strobe illumination must be prepared. Further, the invention of this publication has a problem that it is easily affected by disturbance light because the shutter of the camera is open outside the flash emission period.
[0011]
In addition, when the user sets the delay time of the detection signal from the sensor or the trigger signal to the camera, it is difficult to know how much delay time should be set even if referring to the monitor, and the setting is completed. There is a problem that it takes a long time to complete. Note that neither of the above Patent Documents 1 and 2 discloses any specific method for the user to set an optimal delay time.
[0012]
The present invention has been made paying attention to the above problems, and by setting a function for delaying the trigger signal to the camera in the image processing apparatus, it is possible to reduce the cost and installation man-hour for delaying the trigger signal. Objective.
[0013]
In addition, the present invention enables the delay time of the trigger signal to be set by a simple operation or can be automatically set, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of setting the delay time and reducing the burden on the operator. With the goal.
[0014]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The image processing apparatus according to the present invention drives an imaging device positioned toward a moving path of an object, and executes an observation process for the object using the obtained image. Here, the “object” is not limited to an object having a function of moving by itself, such as a vehicle, but also includes an object that is moved by a conveying means such as a conveyor, such as the above-described inspection object.
[0015]
The contents of the observation process vary depending on the type of object and the purpose of the observation. For example, in the case of the above-described inspection, it is possible to read a character or a mark attached to an object and perform image processing for determining the quality.
[0016]
The image processing apparatus preferably has a computer as a control entity, and can further incorporate a processor dedicated to image processing or an ASIC (specific application IC). In addition to the imaging device and sensor, it is desirable to connect peripheral devices such as an image display monitor and an input device for setting operation to the image processing device.
[0017]
In the present invention, detection signal input means for inputting a detection signal from a sensor positioned toward a predetermined position on the moving path of the object to the image processing apparatus, and the imaging apparatus in response to the input of the detection signal Trigger signal output means for outputting a trigger signal, and delay amount setting means for setting a delay amount for controlling the output timing of the trigger signal in the trigger signal output means.
[0018]
As the sensor, a sensor corresponding to the type of the object to be detected, such as a photoelectric switch or a proximity switch, can be selected. In this specification, the “detection signal from the sensor” is a signal indicating that an object has been detected, that is, a signal having a level indicating “there is an object”.
[0019]
The detection signal input means preferably includes a voltage conversion circuit for converting an analog signal from the sensor into a pulse signal of a predetermined level.
The trigger signal output means can be configured as an interface circuit to the image pickup apparatus, inputs the pulse signal converted by the detection signal input means, and after a predetermined time elapses, the trigger signal output means serves as a trigger signal. It is desirable to configure so that it can output. The delay amount set by the delay amount setting means indicates the delay time from the input of this pulse signal to the output of the trigger signal, and is preferably set as an integer value proportional to the length of the delay time. . Various modes to be described later can be introduced into this delay amount setting means. In any of the modes, an arbitrary delay amount can be set, and the set delay amount can be changed as appropriate. Is desirable. The trigger signal output means is preferably provided with a storage means such as a register in order to hold the delay amount set by the delay amount setting means.
[0020]
According to the image processing apparatus having the above configuration, the timing for outputting the trigger signal to the imaging apparatus can be adjusted based on the delay amount set by the delay amount setting means. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a special imaging device, and the cost and installation man-hour can be reduced.
[0021]
An image processing apparatus according to a preferred aspect of the present invention receives display means for displaying an image from an imaging device driven by the trigger signal, and an operation for adjusting the position of an object in the image with respect to the display of the image. Operation receiving means. The delay amount setting means includes means for changing the delay amount in accordance with the adjustment operation.
[0022]
The display means may be an interface circuit for a monitor. The operation accepting means may include means for recognizing the contents of the operation (such as the code signal of the operated key) captured in the interface circuit in addition to the interface circuit for input devices such as a console and a keyboard. it can. This recognition means can be constituted by the computer.
[0023]
The operation for adjusting the position of the object in the displayed image is preferably performed by an operation for changing the current position of the object to the vicinity of the center of the image. This operation can be performed as an operation indicating the moving direction, such as an arrow key, but is not limited thereto, and may be an operation for designating a position where an object should be on the image display screen, for example.
[0024]
The means for changing the delay amount according to the adjustment operation can be configured by a computer in which this processing program is installed. It is desirable that this program converts the content of the adjustment operation into a predetermined adjustment value and increases or decreases the current delay amount by the conversion value. The specific program can be variously configured according to the content of the adjustment operation.
[0025]
For example, when the direction of movement of an object is designated with an arrow key, a predetermined numerical value is set in advance as an adjustment value for one unit, and the delay amount is increased by one unit each time the arrow key is operated. Can be reduced. Further, when an operation for designating the position where the object should be on the screen is performed, it is possible to repeat photographing while adjusting the delay amount until the object is located at the designated position.
[0026]
According to the above aspect, the user can set an optimal delay amount by performing an operation of designating an object to be positioned at an appropriate location while referring to the display of an image. Therefore, it is not necessary to input a numerical value indicating an appropriate delay amount, and an accurate setting can be performed with a simple operation.
[0027]
In the image processing apparatus according to the second aspect, the delay amount setting means uses a plurality of delay amounts and a plurality of images obtained from trigger signals output based on the delay amounts, to optimize the object. A means for calculating a delay amount necessary for obtaining an image; and a means for determining the calculated delay amount as a set value for the trigger signal output means. Any of these means can be configured by a computer into which a program for executing the processing is introduced.
[0028]
In this image processing apparatus, it is necessary to perform imaging a plurality of times while changing the delay amount in advance and acquire an image for each delay amount. In the calculation process for calculating the optimum delay amount, the object is positioned at the center of the image using the position of the object for each delay amount (such as the coordinates of the center point and the center of gravity) and the coordinates corresponding to the center position of the image. It is desirable to calculate the amount of delay in the case of being positioned at (a specific calculation example will be described later). In this way, it is possible to automatically set the delay amount necessary to obtain the optimal image of the object by simply performing a plurality of imaging processes. This eliminates the need for setting, and improves the convenience of the trigger signal output timing setting process.
[0029]
In the above, the plurality of delay amounts may be arbitrarily set according to the user's operation. However, if a preset numerical value is used, the user's input operation is not required, and a plurality of delay amounts are required. An appropriate delay amount can be automatically set only by shooting.
[0030]
Next, the image processing apparatus according to the third aspect includes display means for displaying an image from the imaging apparatus driven by the trigger signal, and the trigger signal output means is preset with respect to the detection signal. It is possible to output a plurality of trigger signals based on the plurality of delay amounts. The delay amount setting means corresponds to the means for displaying the plurality of images obtained by the plurality of trigger signals on the display means and accepting an operation for selecting one of the images, and the image selected by the operation. Means for determining a delay amount to be set as a set value for the trigger signal output means.
[0031]
The display means can be an interface circuit for a monitor, as in the first aspect.
The trigger signal output means preferably outputs the plurality of trigger signals continuously only when the image processing apparatus is in a mode for setting the delay amount. Since the delay amount corresponding to each trigger signal needs to be determined according to the continuous shooting function of the imaging apparatus, the trigger signal output means has a continuous function separately from the delay amount set by the delay amount setting means. It is desirable to provide a buffer for storing a delay amount corresponding to each trigger signal to be output.
[0032]
According to the above apparatus, the predetermined object detected by the sensor is imaged a plurality of times at different timings, and each obtained image is displayed on the monitor. When the user selects an image in which the object is at an optimum position on the display screen, the delay amount corresponding to the image is determined as a set value and set in the trigger signal output means. Therefore, the user does not need to perform a complicated operation such as inputting a numerical value indicating a specific delay amount, and can set an appropriate delay amount with a simple operation.
In addition, although it is desirable to display a plurality of images in parallel in one screen, the present invention is not limited to this, and each image may be displayed in order according to the switching operation.
[0033]
The image processing apparatus according to the present invention further includes a receiving unit that receives transmission of information indicating a delay amount from an external device, and the trigger signal output unit is provided in the delay amount setting unit based on the information received by the receiving unit. Can include means for setting a delay amount. The external device is preferably provided with a function capable of storing a plurality of different delay amounts depending on the type of object, the contents of observation processing, etc., such as a PLC or a personal computer. The delay amount to be stored in the external device is preferably information set in advance in the image processing apparatus based on any of the above-described aspects and transmitted from the image processing apparatus to the external device.
[0034]
According to the above configuration, when it is necessary to change the timing for driving the imaging device according to various observation conditions, a delay amount suitable for the conditions is transmitted from the external device, and this is set in the trigger signal output means. Therefore, even when the observation condition is frequently changed, it is possible to change the setting quickly and accurately. In addition, since the inspection line and the production line of the factory are provided with a PLC in which fine processing contents such as the type of inspection object and the moving speed of the line are set, this PLC can be used as an external device.
However, the various delay amounts are not necessarily stored in an external device, and may be stored in a memory of a computer that is a control subject of the image processing apparatus.
[0035]
In the image processing apparatus including each aspect described above, the trigger signal output unit includes a pulse generation unit that executes a process of generating a pulse at predetermined intervals according to the detection signal, and counts the pulses generated by the pulse generation unit. And counting means for comparing, and comparing means for comparing the count value obtained by the counting means with the delay amount set by the delay amount setting means.
[0036]
In addition to the pulse generation circuit, the pulse generation means preferably includes a circuit that detects the rising edge of the detection signal and drives the pulse generation circuit. The counting means can be constituted by a counter, and the comparing means can be constituted by a comparator.
[0037]
Next, in the image processing method according to the present invention, a sensor for detecting the object and an imaging device for imaging the object are positioned on the moving path of the object, and imaging is performed at a timing according to a detection signal from the sensor. The apparatus is driven and observation processing for the object is executed using the obtained image. In the first image processing method, a step of outputting a trigger signal to the imaging device when a delay time based on a predetermined delay amount has elapsed after inputting the detection signal from the sensor, the imaging device driven by the trigger signal The following steps are performed: displaying an image from the image, and changing the delay amount according to the adjustment operation when an operation for adjusting the position of the object on the screen is performed on the display of the image. The delay amount after the change is determined as an optimum delay amount for obtaining an image for the observation process.
[0038]
The adjustment operation can be performed by an arrow key or an operation for designating a position where an object should be, as described for the image processing apparatus. The delay amount corresponding to the first trigger signal is preferably set to an initial value set in advance (however, this initial value may be zero). Of the above three steps, the step of changing the delay amount in accordance with the adjustment operation only needs to be executed when the adjustment operation is performed. Therefore, the next detection signal is input before the adjustment operation is performed. If this happens, it is desirable to skip.
[0039]
In addition, when adjusting the delay amount by an operation that specifies the moving direction of the object, such as an arrow key, the delay amount at that time according to the confirmation operation after confirming that the object has moved to the optimal position It is desirable to determine In addition, when adjusting the delay amount by an operation of designating the position where the object should be, it is desirable to repeat photographing while adjusting the delay amount until the object is located at the designated position.
[0040]
According to the above method, it is possible to set a delay amount necessary for obtaining an image suitable for observation processing by an operation for positioning an object on the screen at an appropriate place and use it for subsequent observation processing. it can.
[0041]
According to a second image processing method of the present invention, the step of outputting a trigger signal to the imaging device when a delay time based on a predetermined delay amount has elapsed since the detection signal from the sensor was input is changed. The delay is optimal for obtaining an image for the observation processing using each delay amount and a plurality of images obtained by the trigger signal output based on the delay amount after being executed a plurality of times. The amount is calculated.
[0042]
According to the above method, after obtaining a plurality of images at different timings by executing the photographing process a plurality of times while changing the delay amount, the object is displayed on the screen using these images and the delay amount used. It is possible to automatically set a delay amount required to be positioned at the center of the image and use it for subsequent observation processing. Each delay amount may be set by a method that accepts an input of an arbitrary delay amount, such as performing the same operation as the first method or inputting an appropriate numerical value each time an image is taken. Not limited to this, a plurality of delay amounts prepared in advance may be set in order.
[0043]
Furthermore, the third image processing method according to the present invention includes a step of continuously outputting a plurality of trigger signals based on a plurality of delay amounts set in advance to a detection signal from a sensor to the imaging device; Displaying an image obtained from the imaging device in response to the trigger signal, and receiving an operation of selecting any of the displayed images, and calculating a delay amount corresponding to the selected image for the observation processing. The optimum delay amount for obtaining an image is determined.
[0044]
According to the above method, continuous imaging based on a plurality of delay amounts is performed on one object, and a plurality of images are generated and displayed. The user can determine the delay amount corresponding to the selected image by selecting an image in which the object is at a desired position with reference to this display, and can use it for the subsequent observation processing. In the process of displaying an image, it is desirable to display a plurality of images in parallel. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and each image may be switched and displayed one by one.
[0045]
Each of the above methods is preferably executed in an image processing apparatus that executes image processing for the observation. However, if the sensor and the imaging device are installed in the same way as when executing the actual observation process, the method is executed by another device such as a personal computer, and the delay amount set by this device is You may make it transplant to an image processing apparatus via a communication or a storage medium.
[0046]
According to the first and third methods, an accurate delay amount can be set with a simple operation without performing a complicated operation such as inputting a numerical value indicating the delay amount. Can be improved.
In addition, according to the second method, the delay amount can be automatically set by a plurality of imaging processes, so that an operation for setting is unnecessary or extremely simplified, and similarly, the efficiency required for the setting work is reduced. Can be improved.
[0047]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows the configuration of an image processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied.
The image processing apparatus 1 is for inspecting an inspection object conveyed on a factory inspection line (not shown). As peripheral devices, a camera 2, a sensor 3, a console 4, a monitor 5, and a PLC 6 are used. Etc. are connected.
[0048]
The camera 2 is a frame shutter camera with a built-in CCD, and is arranged toward a predetermined position on the inspection line. The sensor 3 has a function of detecting the presence or absence of an inspection object, such as a photoelectric switch or a proximity switch, and is disposed upstream of the camera 2 with respect to the inspection line. The console 4 is used for various setting operations including adjustment of a delay amount described later, and includes operation keys such as an arrow key and an enter key.
[0049]
Inside the main body of the image processing apparatus 1, in addition to a control unit 10 comprising a CPU 7, a ROM 8, and a RAM 9, a processor 11 dedicated to image processing (hereinafter referred to as “image processing processor 11”), an image memory 12, and each of the peripherals. Interfaces 13 to 17 corresponding to the devices (in the figure, the interface is abbreviated as “I / F”), an input buffer 18, an output buffer 19, and the like are incorporated.
[0050]
The parallel interface 13 for the sensor 3 includes a voltage conversion circuit for converting an analog detection signal from the sensor 3 into a pulse signal having a predetermined voltage (hereinafter, the converted signal is referred to as a “timing signal”). Call it.) An interface (camera interface) 14 for the camera 2 includes a trigger signal generation circuit that generates a trigger signal to the camera 2 based on the timing signal, in addition to an input port for capturing a video signal from the camera 2 and an A / D conversion circuit. It comprises. The trigger signal generation circuit will be described in detail later.
[0051]
The input interface 15 for the console 4 includes an input port for each operation key arranged on the console 4. The monitor interface 16 includes a D / A conversion circuit for converting image data for display from the image processor 11 into a video signal, an output port to the monitor 5, and the like.
[0052]
Note that, in addition to the image generated by the camera 2, the monitor 5 of this embodiment displays, as appropriate, inspection results, setting operation support information, and the like. The display control for the monitor 5 is performed by the image processor 11. The image processor 11 indicates the information to be displayed and the display timing from the CPU 7, as described in the embodiments of FIGS. When a command is received, a screen corresponding to the instruction can be presented.
[0053]
The input buffer 18 serves as a temporary storage memory when the camera interface 14 digitally converts a video signal, and the output buffer 19 serves when the monitor interface 16 converts image data into a display video signal. Each is used as a temporary storage memory.
[0054]
The external device interface 17 corresponding to the PLC 6 includes both a parallel interface and a serial interface, and one of the interfaces is selected according to a signal to be exchanged.
The PLC 6 stores the type of inspection object and the inspection conditions set for each inspection content, and controls peripheral devices such as a transfer conveyor based on the stored information at the time of inspection. In addition, the PLC 6 receives a transfer of a delay amount for controlling the output timing of the trigger signal to the camera 2 from the image processing apparatus 1, stores this in the stored information, and saves the image processing apparatus 1. In response to a call from 1, it is possible to transmit a delay amount that matches the inspection condition.
[0055]
When performing the inspection by the image processing apparatus 1 described above, first, after positioning the camera 2, the mounting position of the sensor 3 is determined by calculation based on the speed of the conveyor that conveys the inspection object and the response speed of the sensor 3. Like to do. Furthermore, in this image processing apparatus 1, the trigger signal generation circuit in the camera interface 14 is configured to output a trigger signal to the camera 2 after an arbitrary delay time from the input of the timing signal. Thus, a trigger signal is input to the camera 2 at an optimal timing for generating an image for inspection.
[0056]
The delay time of the trigger signal with respect to the timing signal is represented by an integer value called “delay amount”. In this image processing apparatus 1, as shown in a specific example described later, in the setting mode prior to the inspection, the acquired image is captured on the monitor 5 while actually inspecting the inspection object by moving the inspection line and each peripheral device. An operation for adjusting the delay amount is performed with reference to the display screen.
[0057]
FIG. 2 shows a specific example of the trigger signal generation circuit in the camera interface 14.
The trigger signal generation circuit 20 is provided with a circuit having a rising detection unit 202 interposed between two flip-flops 201 and 203 on the input side, and further includes a periodic pulse generation unit 204, a pulse counter 205, a register 206, a comparator 207, an output flip-flop 208, and the like. The register 206 stores the delay amount described above. This delay amount is supplied from the CPU 7 and can be rewritten as appropriate.
[0058]
FIG. 3 shows a series of operations in the trigger signal generation circuit 20. In the figure, ck is a clock signal on the camera 2 side (hereinafter referred to as “camera clock ck”), t. ₀ Is the timing signal. The input-side flip-flops 201 and 203 and the rise detection unit 202 operate at a timing synchronized with the camera clock ck.
[0059]
The preceding flip-flop 201 is connected to the timing signal t. ₀ , And the signal t modified so that the change is synchronized with the camera clock ck _f Is output. stp [ab] indicates a combination of the output value a just before the flip-flop 201 and the current output value b. The rise detection unit 202 is a signal t that is turned on (high level) in response to the change from [00] to [01]. _p Is output.
[0060]
Pulse signal t from the rising edge detection unit 202 _p Is supplied to the periodic pulse generator 204 and the pulse counter 205 via the flip-flop 203 at the subsequent stage (hereinafter, this pulse signal t _p Is called a drive pulse. ).
[0061]
The periodic pulse generator 204 outputs the periodic pulse pls at regular time intervals, and the driving pulse t _p Is input, the output operation of the periodic pulse pls is reset and a new period is started. The period pw of the periodic pulse pls is set to a value obtained by multiplying the period of the camera clock ck by a predetermined value.
The pulse counter 205 generates a drive pulse t _p Is input, the set value n of the delay amount in the register 206 is set to an initial value, and thereafter the set value is counted down each time the periodic pulse pls is input.
[0062]
The comparator 207 takes in the count value of the pulse counter 205 and turns the output on (high level) when the count value becomes zero. The output trg from the comparator 207 is a trigger signal, and is output to the camera 2 via the flip-flop 208 in the subsequent stage.
[0063]
In the above description, the delay amount n is set as the initial value of the counter 205 and the trigger signal trg is raised when the count value becomes 0. However, the actual trigger signal trg includes the camera 2 It is necessary to have a pulse width necessary to be recognized as a trigger signal on the side.
[0064]
Next, the setting of the delay amount n will be described with a specific example.
First, in the first embodiment, when the positioning of the sensor 3 and the camera 2 is completed, the model of the inspection object to be conveyed (hereinafter simply referred to as “object”) while operating the line under the same conditions as the actual inspection. .) In order, and an hourly image is displayed on the monitor 5 to accept a delay amount setting by the user.
[0065]
FIG. 4 shows a specific example of the image display on the monitor 5, in addition to the image 30 of the object, information 31 showing the current delay amount n in terms of time, and adjustment and determination of the delay amount Information 32 indicating the operation method is displayed. In FIG. 4 and the following FIGS. 7, 9, and 11, the direction from the left to the right of the screen corresponds to the moving direction of the object.
[0066]
In order to reliably perform image processing at the time of inspection, it is desirable to perform imaging at a timing such that the image 30 of the object is positioned near the center of the screen, as shown in FIG. If the timing for outputting the trigger signal is early, the object image 30 is positioned on the left side of the screen. Conversely, if the timing for outputting the trigger signal is late, the object image 30 is displayed on the screen. It will be located on the right side. Further, when the shift of the output timing of the trigger signal becomes large, an image in which a part of the object is missing is generated as shown in FIG.
[0067]
In this embodiment, the user confirms the position of the object on the screen, and inputs the moving direction for moving the object to the center of the screen using the arrow keys, thereby adjusting the value of the delay amount n. I am doing so. That is, the right arrow key is operated when the object is located on the left side of the screen, and the left arrow key is operated when the object is located on the right side. When the right arrow key is operated, the delay amount n increases by a certain number. On the other hand, when the left arrow key is operated, the delay amount n decreases by a certain number.
[0068]
FIG. 5 shows a processing procedure when the delay amount is set by the above method, and the operation in the image processing apparatus 1 related to the setting of the delay amount will be described below with reference to this procedure. In this procedure, it is assumed that a plurality of inspection objects are sequentially conveyed, and that a detection signal from the sensor 3 that detects these inspection objects is input at an arbitrary timing.
[0069]
The procedure in FIG. 5 is executed by the CPU 7 in communication with the camera interface 14 and the image processor 11 based on the program in the ROM 8. First, in ST1, a predetermined initial value is set as the value of n in the register 206. The initial value may be zero as shown in FIG.
[0070]
Thereafter, the inspection object on the line is detected by the sensor 3, and when the detection signal is converted into a timing signal and input to the camera interface 14 in the parallel interface 13, the trigger signal generation circuit 20 A trigger signal is output after a time corresponding to the delay amount n from the input of the timing signal. As a result, the camera 2 performs shooting, and an image generated from the video signal is input to the image processor 11.
[0071]
The image processor 11 of this embodiment is set to display the input image on the monitor 5 every time an image is input. Note that, as shown in FIG. 4, information 31 indicating the current delay amount, information 32 supporting the operation method, and the like are displayed on the display screen in an overlapping manner.
[0072]
Further, every time an image is input, the image processor 11 outputs a signal indicating that to the CPU 7. The CPU 7 recognizes the image input by inputting this signal, proceeds from ST2 to ST3, and checks the operation of the arrow key. Here, if the user operates the arrow key for the display, ST3 becomes “YES” and the process proceeds to ST4. In ST5, the value of the delay amount n is increased or decreased by a certain number in accordance with the direction indicated by the operated arrow key.
[0073]
In this manner, while adjusting the value of the delay amount n by the operation of adjusting the position of the object on the screen, the process of generating a new image based on the adjusted delay amount n is repeated. When an image in which the object is located at the center of the screen is displayed at a predetermined time point as shown in FIG. 4 (2), the user performs a confirmation operation using the enter key. As a result, ST3 becomes “NO” and ST5 becomes “YES”, and the process ends. Therefore, the value of the delay amount n at the time of the confirmation operation is held in the register 206 and used at the time of inspection.
[0074]
In this embodiment, since the object is conveyed at a high speed, the user can actually perform the operation once for a plurality of images. If no operation is performed on the input image, the loop in which both ST3 and ST5 are “NO” and returns to ST2 is repeated. While this loop is repeated, the image processor 11 displays the hourly input image on the monitor 5, but the object on the screen is displayed at substantially the same position unless the delay amount n is changed. During this time, a screen close to the same image being displayed is provided to the human eye.
[0075]
According to the above procedure, the user only has to operate the left or right arrow key until the object is located at the center of the screen, and an accurate delay amount can be set with a simple operation.
[0076]
Next, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the delay amount is set by performing an operation of designating an appropriate position of the object on the screen instead of the operation of designating the moving direction of the object. I have to. In FIG. 6, for the sake of convenience, ST11 is the start of processing.
[0077]
The image processor 11 of this embodiment also displays this input image together with various information 31 and 32 every time image data is supplied from the camera interface 14. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the image processor 11 of this embodiment displays a cursor 35 for a designation operation near the center of the image display screen. Further, an image of the object is extracted from the input image by a process such as binarization, the coordinates of the center point c are calculated and displayed, and the coordinates are output to the CPU 7. The operation of designating an appropriate position of the object is performed by an operation of moving the cursor 35 with the arrow key and then confirming with the enter key.
[0078]
In FIG. 6, after setting an initial value for the delay amount n in ST11 and confirming image input in ST12, the CPU 7 takes in the coordinates of the center point c as position data of the object in ST13. , Temporarily stored in the RAM 9 or the like.
[0079]
When an image based on the initially set delay amount n is displayed and the position specifying operation is performed on the screen, ST14 becomes “YES”, ST15 becomes “NO”, ST16 becomes “YES”, and ST17. Proceed to In ST17, the delay amount n is changed by adding or subtracting a predetermined adjustment amount to the delay amount n. In this embodiment, the direction from the left to the right of the screen corresponds to the moving direction of the object. Therefore, when the object is located on the left side of the screen as shown in FIG. Then, the value is changed to a value obtained by adding the adjustment amount. On the other hand, when the object is located on the right side of the screen, the delay amount n is changed to a value obtained by subtracting the adjustment amount.
[0080]
On the other hand, when the user determines that the object is located at the center of the screen and operates the enter key on the display screen, ST15 becomes “YES”, and the process is performed with the initial setting value fixed. finish.
[0081]
In this embodiment as well, the object is transported at a high speed, so there is a possibility that a plurality of images may be input before a user operation is performed. In addition, since the position designation operation is performed by a plurality of key operations, a plurality of images may be input between the start and the end of the operation. If no operation is performed on the input image, a loop is executed in which ST16 is “NO” and the process returns to ST12.
[0082]
Next, when the delay amount n is changed, ST14 when the image with the changed delay amount n is input is “NO”, and the process proceeds to ST18, and the image processing processor 11 pertains to the image. It is determined whether the transferred position data conforms to the designated position. In ST18, when the coordinates indicated by the position data are included within a predetermined range from the designated position, it is determined that the position data is suitable for the designated position.
[0083]
If it is determined in ST18 that the position data does not match the designated position, the process proceeds from ST18 to ST17, and the value of the delay amount n is adjusted again. Thereafter, by the same procedure, the value of the delay amount n is adjusted using the input image every hour while repeating the photographing until the position data matches the designated position. If it is determined that the position data is suitable for the specified position at a predetermined time, ST18 is “YES”, and the process is terminated with the delay amount n determined at that time.
The adjustment value that increases or decreases with respect to the delay amount n in ST17 can be set to an arbitrary value according to the distance between the coordinates indicated by the position data and the designated position.
[0084]
According to the above embodiment, when a position designation operation is performed on an image when the delay amount n is an initial value, an image in which the object is placed at the designated position is generated by a plurality of subsequent shootings. As a result, the delay amount n can be adjusted. In this way, the user can set an appropriate delay amount only by performing the position specifying operation first, so that the burden on the user for the setting operation can be reduced.
[0085]
In addition, instead of the method of adjusting the delay amount n by photographing a plurality of times after the designation operation, the designation is made based on the speed of the transfer conveyor constituting the inspection line, the size of the field of view of the camera 1, the size of the image, etc. You may make it calculate the delay amount for positioning a target object in a position. For example, the following formula (1) can be used as an example. However, also in this case, it is desirable to display the image based on the calculated delay amount, and to confirm the delay amount after allowing the user to check whether the object is at an appropriate position on the screen.
[0086]
[Expression 1]

[0087]
In equation (1), N _pix Is the number of pixels for one line of the image, L is the size of the field of view of the camera 2 (size in the horizontal direction), x _c Is the x coordinate of the specified position, x ₀ Is the x coordinate of the center point c when the designated operation is performed, and v is the speed of the conveyor for conveyance.
[0088]
Next, in the procedures of FIGS. 5 and 6, the delay amount is adjusted according to the user's operation, but instead, it is also possible to automatically set the optimum delay amount while taking a picture.
FIG. 8 shows the procedure for this automatic setting. In FIG. 8, for the sake of convenience, ST101 is the start of processing.
[0089]
In this embodiment as well, the point that shooting is performed while conveying a predetermined number of objects is the same as in the previous embodiment. In the first ST101, an initial value is set for the delay amount n. Thus, when an object is detected by the sensor 3, shooting is performed at a timing corresponding to the delay amount n, and an image of the object is input to the image processor 11. In this embodiment as well, the image processor 11 displays the input image on the monitor 5 and extracts the coordinates of the center point c of the object every time an image is input, as in the previous embodiment. .
[0090]
After confirming the image input by the signal from the image processor 11, the CPU 7 takes in the coordinates of the center point c as the position data of the object and stores it in the RAM 9 or the like (ST102, 103). Here, if n remains the initial value, ST104 becomes “YES” and waits for the user's confirmation operation or arrow key operation. When the user determines that the delay amount is inappropriate from the display screen and operates the arrow key, ST105 becomes “NO”, ST106 becomes “YES”, and the process proceeds to ST107, and the current delay amount n is increased by one step. N indicating the amount of delay ₀ Copy to. Further, in the next ST108, the value of n is updated according to the operation of the arrow key.
[0091]
On the other hand, when the user determines that the object is located at the approximate center of the screen and operates the enter key, ST105 becomes “YES”, the current n is determined as the optimum delay amount, and the process is terminated.
In this embodiment as well, when the object is conveyed at high speed, the user's operation is performed once for a plurality of images. In this case, until the operation is performed, a loop in which ST104 is “YES”, ST105 and 106 are “NO”, and the process returns to ST102 is repeated.
[0092]
When the value of n is updated by the operation of the arrow key, ST104 becomes “YES” at the next image input, and the process proceeds to ST109. In ST109, position data obtained after updating the delay amount n, position data obtained when the delay amount n is an initial value, and delay amounts n, n ₀ Based on the following equation (2), the optimum delay amount n _d Is calculated.
[0093]
[Expression 2]

[0094]
In equation (2), x _c Is the x coordinate of the point corresponding to the center of the image, x ₁ Is the x coordinate of the center point extracted from the image when the delay amount is the initial value, x ₂ Is the x coordinate of the center point extracted from the image with the updated delay amount.
[0095]
In this way, the optimum delay amount n _d Is obtained in ST110. _d The delay amount n is rewritten with the value of, and the process is terminated.
[0096]
FIG. 9 shows changes in the image corresponding to the delay amount being changed by the above procedure. 9 (1) shows an input image when the delay amount n is an initial value, FIG. 9 (2) shows an input image after the delay amount n is updated, and FIG. 9 (3) shows an appropriate delay amount. Each input image after setting is shown. In the figure, c is the center point of the image 30 of the object. In the image of FIG. 9 (3) based on the appropriate delay amount, this center point c is the center point c. ₀ And almost match.
[0097]
According to the embodiments of FIGS. 8 and 9 described above, the optimum delay amount can be calculated and set in the trigger signal generation circuit 20 by accepting the delay amount adjustment operation only once. Can greatly increase.
Instead of performing the delay amount adjustment operation, a delay amount to be set next to the initial value is determined in advance, and the center point c when the delay amount n is the initial value is c. ₀ If not, the delay amount n may be automatically updated to the second value. Further, the center point c in the input image and the center point c of the screen when the delay amount n is the initial value. ₀ These x coordinates may be applied to the equation (1) to calculate the optimum delay amount. In this way, the user does not need to perform an adjustment operation, and the setting process can be completely automated.
[0098]
By the way, since the camera 2 has an ability to photograph an object to be conveyed at high speed, it is possible to photograph one object a plurality of times with timings based on different delay amounts. The embodiment shown below uses the performance of this camera to photograph one object four times with different delay times, and from the obtained images, the delay amount corresponding to the image in which the object is located at the center To choose.
[0099]
In order to implement this embodiment, the trigger signal generation circuit 20 in the camera interface 14 is provided with a register for storing four types of delay amounts in addition to the register 206 for holding the delay amount n. Is desirable. Further, when setting the delay amount, it is necessary to change the design of the pulse counter 205 and the comparator 207 so as to sequentially output four trigger signals at timings corresponding to the four delay amounts with respect to the timing signal. is there.
[0100]
FIG. 10 is a processing procedure in the case of setting using the four delay amounts. This procedure is started from ST201 for convenience. Further, the four delay amounts are set as standard in the ROM 8 of the control unit 10, and these four delay amounts are set in the trigger signal generation circuit 20 in the first ST201.
[0101]
When the four delay amounts are set, the trigger signal generation circuit 20 continuously generates four trigger signals with timings based on the delay amounts according to the timing signals and outputs them to the camera 2. The camera 2 performs a photographing operation according to each trigger signal, and as a result, four images corresponding to each delay amount are input to the image processor 11.
[0102]
At this time, the process of the CPU 7 proceeds from ST202 to ST203, and instructs the image processor 11 to display an image corresponding to each delay amount. In response to this instruction, the image processor 11 divides the screen into four as shown in FIG. 11 and displays one image in each area. Also in the display example of FIG. 11, information 31 indicating a delay amount corresponding to the image is also displayed on the image display screen.
[0103]
The CPU 7 accepts a selection operation by the console 4 under this display state. In the example of FIG. 11, the display area of the currently selected image is indicated by a frame-shaped marker 33. The user moves the marker 33 to a desired image using the arrow keys, and then confirms the selection by operating the enter key. When this determination operation is performed, ST204 becomes “YES” and the process proceeds to ST205, where the delay amount corresponding to the selected image is determined as the optimal delay amount and stored as the set value n of the register 206.
[0104]
According to the above procedure, since an optimum delay amount can be set by an operation of continuously photographing one object and selecting one of the obtained four images, the time required for the setting is greatly increased. In addition, the user's operation is simplified and the delay amount can be set efficiently.
[0105]
However, there are cases where none of the four images is in an optimal state. In such a case, the four delay amounts may be adjusted by predetermined values, respectively, and the same processing may be performed again. Alternatively, an appropriate image is selected from the four images, and the procedure shown in FIG. 5 is executed to adjust the delay amount set by the selection so that an optimal image can be obtained. May be.
[0106]
As described above, according to each of the above-described embodiments, it is possible to efficiently set a delay amount necessary for obtaining an image suitable for inspection. In addition, even if the inspection conditions change, such as when the speed of the object or conveyor is changed, the delay amount can be reset easily, so that inspection can be performed without interruption for a long period of time. It is possible to obtain an effect that the efficiency is not lowered.
[0107]
As described with reference to FIG. 1, when a large number of inspection conditions must be switched and processed, a delay amount may be set for each condition in advance and the set value may be stored in the PLC 6. it can. In this way, each time the inspection condition changes, it is only necessary to read the delay amount that meets the new condition from the PLC 6 and set it in the register 206, and the time for which the inspection is interrupted can be further shortened.
[0108]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, since a function for delaying a trigger signal to the imaging apparatus is provided in the image processing apparatus, a target device that only delays the trigger signal is installed, or a special specification imaging apparatus is installed. There is no need to introduce it, and costs and installation man-hours can be reduced.
[0109]
In addition, according to the present invention, the delay time of the trigger signal can be set by a simple operation, or the optimum delay time can be automatically set by a predetermined number of times of shooting. This can improve the burden on the operator.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a trigger signal generation circuit.
FIG. 3 is a timing chart showing an operation in the trigger signal generation circuit.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen for adjusting a delay amount.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure related to a delay amount setting process;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing another procedure related to a delay amount setting process;
7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen used in the procedure of FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing another procedure related to a delay amount setting process;
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a change in an image corresponding to a change in delay amount according to the procedure in FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing another procedure related to a delay amount setting process;
11 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen in the procedure of FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Image processing device
2 Camera
3 Sensor
4 Console
5 Monitor
6 PLC
7 CPU
11 Image processor
13 Parallel interface
14 Camera interface
20 Trigger signal generation circuit
202 Rise detection unit
204 Periodic pulse generator
205 Pulse counter
206 registers
207 comparator

Claims (9)

In an apparatus for driving an imaging device positioned toward a moving path of an object and performing an observation process on the object using an obtained image,
Detection signal input means for inputting a detection signal from a sensor positioned toward a predetermined position of the movement path;
Trigger signal output means for outputting a trigger signal to the imaging device in response to an input of the detection signal;
An image processing apparatus comprising: a delay amount setting unit configured to set a delay amount for controlling a trigger signal output timing in the trigger signal output unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
A display unit that displays an image from the imaging device driven by the trigger signal; and an operation reception unit that receives an operation of adjusting the position of an object in the image with respect to the display of the image.
The delay amount setting means is an image processing apparatus including means for changing a delay amount according to the adjustment operation. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The delay amount setting means calculates a delay amount necessary to obtain an optimal image of the object using a plurality of delay amounts and a plurality of images obtained from a trigger signal output based on the delay amounts. And an image processing apparatus comprising: a means for determining the calculated delay amount as a set value for the trigger signal output means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
Comprising display means for displaying an image from the imaging device driven by the trigger signal;
The trigger signal output means is configured to be capable of continuously outputting a plurality of trigger signals based on a plurality of preset delay amounts with respect to the detection signal,
The delay amount setting means displays a plurality of images obtained by the plurality of trigger signals on the display means and accepts an operation for selecting one of the images, and corresponds to the image selected by the operation. Means for determining the delay amount as a set value for the trigger signal output means. In the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Comprising receiving means for receiving transmission of information indicating the delay amount from an external device;
The delay amount setting means is an image processing apparatus comprising means for setting a delay amount in the trigger signal output means based on information received by the receiving means. 6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the trigger signal output unit includes a pulse generation unit that executes a process of generating a pulse at predetermined intervals according to the detection signal, and the pulse generation unit. An image processing apparatus comprising: counting means for counting the pulses generated by the means; and comparing means for comparing a count value obtained by the counting means with a delay amount set by the delay amount setting means. A sensor for detecting the object and an imaging device for imaging the object are positioned on the moving path of the object, the imaging device is driven at a timing according to a detection signal from the sensor, and the obtained image is used. In a method for performing observation processing on the object,
Outputting a trigger signal to the imaging device when a delay time based on a predetermined delay amount has elapsed since the detection signal from the sensor was input;
Displaying an image from an imaging device driven by the trigger signal;
When an operation for adjusting the position of an object in the image is performed for the display of the image, the step of changing the delay amount according to the adjustment operation;
An image processing method in which each step is executed, and the delay amount after the change is determined as an optimum delay amount for obtaining an image for the observation process. A sensor for detecting the object and an imaging device for imaging the object are positioned on the moving path of the object, the imaging device is driven at a timing according to a detection signal from the sensor, and the obtained image is used. In a method for performing observation processing on the object,
After executing the step of outputting a trigger signal to the imaging device at the time when a delay time based on a predetermined delay amount has elapsed since inputting the detection signal from the sensor, while changing the delay amount,
An image in which an optimum delay amount for obtaining an image for the observation process is calculated using each delay amount and a plurality of images obtained by a trigger signal output based on the delay amount. Processing method. A sensor for detecting the object and an imaging device for imaging the object are positioned on the moving path of the object, the imaging device is driven at a timing according to a detection signal from the sensor, and the obtained image is used. In a method for performing observation processing on the object,
A step of continuously outputting a plurality of trigger signals based on a plurality of delay amounts set in advance to the imaging device with respect to the detection signal from the sensor;
Displaying an image obtained from the imaging device by the plurality of trigger signals and receiving an operation of selecting any of the displayed images;
An image processing method in which each step is executed, and a delay amount corresponding to the selected image is determined as an optimum delay amount for obtaining an image for the observation processing.

Images