JPH1065940A - Image pickup device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide the image pickup device by which an object to be detected quickly for a proper field area without needing a magnification mechanism of a magnification lens and an image pickup device moving mechanism. SOLUTION: The arrival of a work 10 is detected by a local photoelectric conversion output in a photoelectric conversion face of a solid-state image pickup element of amplification type conversing an object image into an electric (CMD) corresponding to a 1st area HA set in an area HC of a visual range of an optical system. Thus, a time when the work 10 reaches a 2nd area HB being an image pickup area is estimated and the image timing of the CMD is set to the time.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus, and more particularly, to a method in which a video signal corresponding to an object to be detected relatively moving with respect to the image pickup apparatus is obtained by the image pickup apparatus, and an image based on the video signal is supplied to a monitor means. The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus applied to a system that performs monitoring, inspection, and the like of an object to be detected by projecting or obtaining an identification signal corresponding to the video signal.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, the visual inspection of a product on a production line has been carried out directly by a person, but in recent years, the speed of the production line has been increased to improve productivity. Demands for higher yields and unmanned production lines are increasing. On the other hand, it is often the case that the visual inspection of a product cannot be directly performed by a person. Under the circumstances described above, a method of performing inspection using an apparatus has been adopted. For such an appearance inspection of a product, an apparatus or a method using an imaging device has been adopted. ing.

As an example of an appearance inspection system using the above-described imaging device, a product to be inspected, ie, a work, is photographed by an imaging device such as an electronic camera or a video camera, and an image of the work is taken. The information can be reproduced on a display device, and based on the reproduced image, a person can visually judge the quality, or an image processing device such as a shading process can automatically determine the quality of the appearance of the object to be inspected. There is a device.

As a conventional visual inspection system, there is, for example, a conveyor device shown in a layout diagram of FIG. 16 to which an imaging device 101 shown in a block diagram of FIG. 15 is applied. FIG.
FIG. 7 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA ′ when the conveyor belt side is viewed from the imaging device side in the arrangement diagram of FIG.

[0005] A workpiece 100 as an object to be detected is manufactured by a manufacturing device (not shown), and then is driven by a conveyor driving device 112.
Is conveyed on a conveyor belt 111 driven by the motor. When the work 100 to be conveyed reaches a predetermined position on the conveyor belt 111, the light source 1 also arranged at a predetermined position on the conveyor belt 111
13 and the optical sensor 114 detect that the predetermined position has been reached.

[0006] The detection signal of the optical sensor 114 is input to the imaging device 101, and the system controller 106 inside the imaging device 101 controls the CCD driving unit 105 and the like to photograph the work 100. That is, the image of the work 100 is formed on the CCD 102 as an image sensor in the image pickup apparatus 101 through the image pickup lens 107 and photoelectrically converted. After the photoelectrically converted image signal is subjected to signal processing in the signal processing unit 103, the display driving unit 104 performs signal processing in accordance with a display device (not shown) and outputs the image signal to the display device. By displaying the image information of the work 100 on a display device such as a monitor, a person visually judges the quality. Furthermore, after the image information of the work 100 is converted into an image signal, the image information can be input to an image processing device such as a shading process, and the quality can be automatically determined.

[0007]

However, in the above-described conventional inspection system, when imaging a work 100 having a different size, a variable power lens is used to perform imaging in a visual field suitable for visual inspection. It was necessary to make the magnification HZ correspond to the size of the work 100 or to move the imaging device 101 itself back and forth by using a moving mechanism to adjust the size HZ of the field of view to the work 100. In addition, since the variable power lens and the imaging device 101 are driven or moved, continuous shooting cannot be performed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and is an imaging apparatus applied to a system for monitoring or inspecting an object to be detected, comprising a variable power lens and an imaging apparatus moving mechanism. It is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus capable of capturing a field of view suitable for the size and moving posture of a detected object or continuously capturing the field of view without applying a mechanical visual field adjusting device such as the one described above.

[0009]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical system having a visual field set so as to conform to an object to be detected, and a photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the visual field of the optical system. In the photoelectric conversion surface, in an imaging device having an imaging device capable of reading photoelectric conversion outputs from a limited plurality of regions, the imaging device is locally set in the photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging device. Based on the photoelectric conversion output read from the first area, detection means for obtaining information on required conditions for properly imaging the object to be detected in the field of view of the optical system, and detection information obtained by the detection means And imaging control means for performing imaging on the detected object by using a locally set second region in the photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging device, based on the obtained information. You Is that the imaging device .........
[1] In the imaging device according to [1], a second area is set based on information obtained by the detection means, and a local area corresponding to the second area on the photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging element is set. The image of the object to be detected is captured by the photoelectric conversion output.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the detecting means has a speed detecting means for detecting a moving speed of the object to be detected, and the detecting means is provided when the object enters the first area. The length in the moving direction of the detected object is detected by S × T1 from the time T1 until the time when the moving object is detected and the moving speed S detected by the speed detecting means. It ’s a device ………………
…………………………………………………… [2] In the image pickup device of the above [2], the detected object is determined from the passing time T1 and the moving speed S detected by the detecting means. The length in the moving direction is detected, and the second area is set according to the length.

In the invention according to a third aspect of the present invention, the speed detecting means divides the first area into two parts in the moving direction, and the object to be detected is divided into two parts in the first area. From the time T2 from the time when the first area is entered to the time when the first area is divided into the other, and the distance L between one and the other of the divided first area, the moving speed is calculated by L / T2. The image pickup apparatus according to the above [2], wherein S is detected. [3] In the image pickup apparatus according to the above [3], the time difference detected by the speed detecting means is detected. The moving speed S is detected from T2 and the distance L. The imaging timing in the second area is set based on the moving speed.

The invention according to claim 4 of the present application further comprises orthogonal dimension detecting means for detecting a size in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction based on image information picked up in the first area,
The imaging control means is configured to determine a moving direction based on a length in a moving direction of the detected object detected by the detecting means and a size in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the detected object detected by the orthogonal dimension detecting means. With respect to the size in the direction orthogonal to the length and the moving direction, the second area occupying a size suitable for monitoring the detected object is determined, and the area on the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the field of view is determined. The imaging apparatus according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the imaging of the detected object is performed using a local area corresponding to the second area .... [4] [4] ] In the imaging device described in the above, the photoelectric conversion is performed from a local portion of the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the second region set based on the detected length in the movement direction and the size in the direction orthogonal to the movement direction. The output is read.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical system having a field of view set so as to be suitable for an object to be detected, and a photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the field of view of the optical system. In the imaging device having an imaging device capable of reading the photoelectric conversion output from a limited plurality of regions, in the photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging device,
Detecting means for detecting the length in the moving direction of the detected object and the skew angle based on the photoelectric conversion output read from the first area composed of two locally set areas; Based on the obtained length of the detected object in the moving direction and the information on the skew angle of the detected object, a size suitable for monitoring the detected object and the above-mentioned field of view so as to occupy the position are obtained. Setting a second area as a local area in the photoelectric conversion surface of the corresponding image sensor;
An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging control unit that performs imaging of an object to be detected using the second area. [5] The imaging according to the above [5]. In the apparatus, the length of the detected object in the moving direction length by the detecting means, and a size suitable for monitoring the detected object obtained based on information on the skew angle of the object, and occupying the position. Set the second area. The local photoelectric conversion output of the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the second area is read, and an image of the detected object is obtained.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means is based on information relating to necessary conditions for properly imaging an object to be detected in the field of view of the optical system obtained by its own detecting operation. The imaging apparatus according to the above [1], wherein an imaging condition for the first region is newly set ....
... [6] In the imaging apparatus according to the above [6], imaging of the first area is performed based on information on necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object obtained initially. Are updated to more appropriate ones.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus, the detecting means newly generates the image data based on a photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing the imaging of the second area under the control of the imaging control means. The image pickup apparatus according to the above [1], wherein an image pickup condition for the first area is set.
[7] In the imaging device according to the above [7], based on the information on necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object obtained at the beginning, the second imaging is performed under the control of the imaging control means. The imaging condition for the first area is further updated to a more appropriate one based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of imaging the area.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the imaging control means relies on the second information based on information obtained from the detection means.
After the initial imaging is performed for the area, the imaging condition for the second area is newly set based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained by the initial imaging, and the second area is set under this setting. The imaging apparatus according to the above [1], characterized in that the imaging apparatus is adapted to perform imaging by using the imaging apparatus according to the above [1]. Based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object, based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of imaging the second area under the control of the imaging control means. Further, the imaging condition for the second region is updated, and the imaging is performed using the second region.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in accordance with the ninth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means appropriately detects an object to be detected having entered the field of view of the optical system based on the photoelectric conversion output read out a plurality of times from the first area. The image pickup apparatus according to the above [1], characterized in that the information concerning necessary conditions for image pickup is obtained.

[9] The above

[9] In the imaging device described in [9], the photoelectric conversion output is obtained a plurality of times from the first area which can be set relatively small and does not take a long time to read, so that highly accurate detection information can be obtained in a relatively short time. obtain.

[0018] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the imaging control means may be configured to read out the photoelectric conversion output from the first area a plurality of times based on information obtained from the detecting means. Wherein the imaging condition for reading is variably set.

[9]
[10] In the imaging device according to the above [10], the photoelectric conversion output is obtained a plurality of times from the first area, and the imaging conditions are variably set.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the imaging apparatus according to the above [10], wherein the imaging condition includes an effective exposure time.
... [11] In the imaging device according to the above [11], the effective exposure time such as the shutter speed is controlled based on the information obtained from the detection means.

The invention according to claim 12 of the present application is the image pickup apparatus according to the above [10], characterized in that the conditions of the image pickup include the presence or absence of light emission by the flash light emitting means. ………………………………
[12] In the imaging apparatus according to the above [12], the determination and control of the necessity or non-necessity of the light emission by the flash light emitting means such as the strobe is performed based on the information obtained from the detecting means. Do.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means obtains information on the surface roughness of the detected object based on the photoelectric conversion output read from the first area. The above-mentioned [10], wherein the mode of the thinning process for the image data obtained by the imaging of the second area performed based on the information on the surface roughness of the detected object is specified. ] The imaging device described in the above is an embodiment of the invention.
[13] In the imaging device according to the above [13], information relating to the surface roughness of the detected object is obtained by the detection means, and based on this information, image data obtained by imaging the second area is obtained. Specifies the form of the thinning process.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the imaging control means is configured to define a mode of a thinning process for image data obtained by imaging the second area by a driving mode for reading out the imaging device. [13] The imaging device according to the above [13], which is characterized in that:
... [14] In the imaging device according to the above [14], the detection means obtains information on the surface roughness of the detected object, and the information regarding the second area is obtained based on this information. A form of a thinning process for image data obtained by imaging is defined.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the first area according to the detecting means is arranged such that a plurality of the detected objects move while their relative positions are maintained substantially constant. The position is divided and set so as to reach the area of the camera at substantially the same time as the image pickup apparatus described in the above [1]. [15] In the imaging device according to the above [15], detection is performed substantially simultaneously on a plurality of the detected objects that move with their relative positions shifted.

In the invention according to claim 16 of the present application, the first area according to the detecting means is set to have a shape surrounding a predetermined-shaped space so as to be adapted to the object to be detected. [1] characterized in that:
[16] In the imaging device according to the above [16], the first region according to the detection means is formed so as to surround a central space. The object to be detected conveyed from various directions is detected without delay and without waste.

[0025] The invention according to claim 17 of the present application further comprises display means for displaying imaging conditions set for the imaging relating to the second area based on information obtained by the detecting means. [1] characterized in that:
[17] In the imaging device according to the above [17], imaging conditions set for the imaging related to the second area are displayed on a display unit.

[0026]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Prior to the detailed description of the imaging apparatus of the present invention, an outline will be described. In the present imaging apparatus, the magnification and the imaging distance of the optical system are set so that the apparatus has a field of view capable of covering at least the largest dimension of the predicted or to-be-moved detected object. Then, based on the photoelectric conversion output from a specific first area set in the photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging device corresponding to the field of view of the imaging device, the size, speed, and inclination of the detected object along the relative movement direction are determined. The line angle or the transfer timing of the object is detected. In accordance with the size and speed of the detected object along the relative movement direction, the skew angle, or the transport timing, etc., the size and position of the object suitable for monitoring the detected object are determined. Area 2 is set in the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the appropriate field of view, or an appropriate image pickup timing is set.

By the above-described processing, the output of the first area or the second area, which is more limited than the entire photoelectric conversion surface of the image pickup apparatus, is read, so that the image of the relatively moving object to be detected can be promptly read. In addition, it can be obtained in a form contained in an appropriate capture screen.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image pickup apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Also,
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a conveyor line of an inspection system to which the imaging device 1 is applied, and FIG.
FIG. 2 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA ′ as viewed from the 0 side, and shows a visual field range of the imaging device 1.

The image pickup apparatus 1 includes an image pickup lens 7 which is an optical system having a field of view set so as to be able to mainly capture light from an object to be detected, and an amplification type solid state image pickup device for converting a subject image into an electric signal. CMD (Charge Modulation D
evice) 2, a signal processing unit 3 for reading out the photoelectric conversion output of the CMD 2, and a display driving unit 4 for outputting an image signal to a monitor.
A driving unit 5 for driving the CMD2, a control unit for performing overall control of the entire imaging apparatus, and a detection unit for information for determining an imaging timing of the CMD2;
The system controller 6 includes an imaging control unit for controlling the processing operation of the signal processing unit 3 based on the information of the detection unit. And the imaging device 1
Is such that the entire area HC of its own optical imaging field of view with respect to the conveyor transport device of FIG. 3 corresponds to all the effective pixels of the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2, and the detected object in the same area HC and its background The arrangement is adjusted so that an image is appropriately formed on the photoelectric conversion surface composed of all the effective pixels.

In the above inspection system, the workpiece 10 to be detected is manufactured by a manufacturing device (not shown), and is then transported by a conveyor belt 11 driven by a conveyor driving device 12 as indicated by an arrow. It is transported to D0 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). In the initial state, the image pickup apparatus 1 relates to a relatively small and limited local area HA which is a first area located relatively upstream in the transport direction D0 among all the areas HC in the image pickup field of view in FIG. The image signal is read by scanning a local area in the photoelectric conversion plane on the CMD2 corresponding to the area HA, that is, by using this small limited area. The above area HA
Is the local area in the photoelectric conversion plane corresponding to the area HA
Denotes a local area within a range corresponding to the same area HA formed on the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD 2 via the imaging lens 7.

As for the driving method for scanning the area of the image pickup device, there is a driving method proposed by the present applicant in Japanese Patent Application Nos. 7-316743 and 7-316744. In this driving method, an all-pixel mode for reading an image signal on the entire photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor by controlling a drive circuit for driving and controlling the image sensor, and a block for reading an image signal in an area where the photoelectric conversion surface is limited are provided. By selecting a (region) mode and a skip mode in which a scanning line is skipped on the photoelectric conversion surface to read an image signal,
This is a method of reading each image information. Also in the present imaging apparatus 1, the selection control of the reading area is facilitated by applying the CMD2 as the imaging element, and the image signal is more quickly obtained by limiting the reading area of the photoelectric conversion surface to a local area in the above-described block (area) mode. Can be read.

In the above inspection system, when the leading end of the moved workpiece 10 reaches the area HA, the arrival of the area HA is detected by the CMD 2 of the image pickup device 1. The work arrival detection signal is supplied to the system controller 6. The system controller 6 controls the moving speed S of the workpiece 10 equal to the conveying speed of the conveyor belt 11 obtained via the conveyor driving device 12.
And the distance X1 from the area HA to the tip of the area HB of the second area which is set in advance,
The elapsed time T0 from the arrival at the area HA to the arrival at the area HB is determined by the following equation: T0 = X1 / S (1)

In this case, the size of the area HB is an area having a predetermined constant spread corresponding to the size of the work 10 to be applied. A local area in the photoelectric conversion surface is an area for reading an image of the work 10.

After the lapse of time T0 from the time of arrival at the area HA, the imaging apparatus 1 controls the CMD driving section 5 to control the local image on the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2 corresponding to the area HB shown in FIG. Read the signal. The image of the work 10 is captured by this reading operation. That is, the image of the work 10 is transmitted through the imaging lens 7 to the CM.
An image is formed on the photoelectric conversion surface of D2 and photoelectrically converted. The image signal subjected to the photoelectric conversion is subjected to signal processing in a signal processing unit 3 and then signal processing in accordance with a display device (not shown) is performed in a display driving unit 4, and an image such as a display device or a gradation process is performed. It is output to a processing device as an image signal. And
Inspection of the shape, scratch, etc. of the work 10 as the detected object is performed.

As described above, according to the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment, the time at which the conveyed work 10 arrives is obtained by calculation based on the conveyor speed and the work transfer timing, and at that time, the time corresponding to the area HB is determined. By reading the image signal of the area in the photoelectric conversion plane, appropriate image information of the work 10 can be obtained. Therefore, it is not necessary to move the image pickup apparatus itself to obtain an image of the conveyed work 10 or to change the magnification of the image pickup lens as in the conventional image pickup apparatus. Can be obtained.

The size of the area HB is made variable in accordance with the size of the work 10 as in a modified example of the image pickup apparatus according to the above-described embodiment, or as in another embodiment described later. An imaging device can also be proposed. According to the apparatus of this modified example, since the size of the area HB is set appropriately in accordance with the size of the work 10, the speed of capturing the image signal by the CMD2 can be further increased.

If the size of the area HA is appropriately set in accordance with the conveyor conveyance speed D0 as another modified example of the image pickup apparatus, it is possible to take in the work 10 from useless areas related to the image taking operation. And speedup becomes possible. Further, as an imaging apparatus of still another modification, in an apparatus having a high conveyor conveyance speed,
It is also possible to perform image reading by CMD2 in accordance with strobe light emission.

Next, an image pickup apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The imaging apparatus 21 obtains the size of the work 10 from the change in the image signal in the photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the first area and the moving speed of the work 10, and obtains the size of the second area corresponding to the size of the work 10. This is for setting the size. The other configuration of the imaging device 21 is the same as that of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a view of the conveyor belt 11 of the detection system to which the image pickup device is applied, as viewed from the image pickup device 21 side. In FIG. 4, as shown in FIG. A small area PA is set as a first area which is a detection area in the area HC of the entire field of view. The moving state of the workpiece 10 is detected by reading the photoelectric conversion output of a minute local area in the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2 corresponding to that area.

That is, in the course of time from time 1 to time 5 from FIG. 4A to FIG.
First, the work 10 enters the area PA (FIG. 4).
(See FIG. 4 (B)), the time T1 before passing through (see FIG. 4 (D)) is detected by a detection means built in the system controller 6 by a change in the amount of incident light on the CMD 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a change in the amount of incident light of the CMD2.

From the moving speed S of the work 10 obtained from the conveyor driving device 12 and the time T2, the size (length) L2 of the work 10 in the transport direction D0 is given by the following equation: L2 = S × T1 … (2) Based on the size L2 of the work 10, the area length in the transport direction D0 of the area HB, which is the second area, is set, and from the area locally set in the photoelectric conversion plane of the CMD2 corresponding to the area HB. An image signal of the work 10 can be read.

The timing for reading the image signal is as follows.
It is obtained from the moving speed S of the work 10 corresponding to the transport speed obtained from the conveyor driving device 12, as in the case of the imaging device 1 of the first embodiment. The above-described detection and calculation processes are performed by the system controller 6 built in the imaging device 21.

According to the present imaging apparatus, for a work 10 of an arbitrary size, a local readout area of an appropriate size can be set in the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2 corresponding to the second area. Quick and appropriate image information can be obtained without changing the magnification and the like of the lens.

In the image pickup apparatus 21, a minute area is set as the area PA, but as an image pickup apparatus as a modified example thereof, the area PA is set in the conveyor conveyance direction D0.
A device that detects the width in the direction perpendicular to the workpiece moving direction same as the direction D0 can be proposed by making the shape linear or rectangular extending in the direction perpendicular to the direction.

Next, an imaging apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The imaging device 31 divides the first area into two parts, detects the time difference between the time when the work 10 passes through the two divided areas based on a change in the amount of incident light on the CMD2, and obtains the moving speed of the work 10. By applying the moving speed information as the work moving speed information of the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment, it is possible to set a second area of an appropriate size for the work 10. The remaining configuration of the imaging device 31 is the same as that of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of an inspection system to which the image pickup device 31 of the present embodiment is applied, and FIG. 7 is a view of the conveyor device shown in FIG.
FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, in the entire area Hc corresponding to all the pixel areas of the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2, the first area includes two divided areas on the upstream side in the transport direction and along the transport direction D0. By setting certain minute areas HA1 and HA2, it is possible to take in the incident light amount information (shading) of the area corresponding to the areas HA1 and HA2 in the photoelectric conversion surface of CMD2.

That is, the imaging device 31 constantly scans the areas HA1 and HA2. When the work 10 is conveyed on the conveyor belt 11, passes through the area HA1, and subsequently passes through the area HA2, Changes in the incident light at the corresponding portions of the areas HA1 and HA2 are detected, and the areas HA1 and HA2 of the work 10 are detected.
Is detected as the transit time T2 between the two points.

On the other hand, the separation distance X3 between the areas HA1 and HA2 on the actual conveyor belt 11 is previously obtained from the distance between the corresponding parts of the areas HA1 and HA2 on the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2 and the magnification of the imaging lens 7. be able to.

The moving speed S of the work 10 can be obtained from the following expression based on the passing time T2 and the distance X3 between the areas HA1 and HA2, and S = X3 / T2 (3) The relationship between the distance X3 between the two regions and the distance X3 'between the two corresponding regions on the CMD2 side is X3 = β × X3', where β is the image magnification of the optical system.

By detecting the moving speed S and the transit time T1 of the area HA1 of the work 10 detected by the imaging device 21 according to the second embodiment, the size L of the work 10 is obtained from the equation (2). Can be obtained, and the second area HB, which is an area for reading image information, can be set to a size suitable for the work 10.

Further, based on the moving speed S and the distance X1 between the first area and the second area in the imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, the work 10 to be conveyed is obtained from the equation (1). The timing of reaching the area HB of the second area is determined, and the image signal of the area in the photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the area HB is read at the timing, thereby obtaining the work 1.
0 image information can be obtained. The above-described detection and calculation processing are performed by the system controller 6 built in the imaging device 31.

As described above, the imaging device 31 of the present embodiment
According to the method, the moving speed S of the work 10 is detected by detecting the time difference of the change in the amount of incident light of the CMD 2 in the first area obtained by dividing the moving speed of the work 10, and based on the moving speed information, The size of the read area can be determined according to the size of the work, and the imaging timing can be set in accordance with the arrival time of the work. It is possible to set the read timing. Further, since the moving speed is always detected, it is possible to immediately respond to a change in the transport speed of the conveyor device.

Next, an image pickup apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The present imaging device 41 is provided with a mark of a predetermined pitch having a different reflectance along the transport direction at the end of the conveyor belt of the conveyor device of the inspection system to be applied, and the shape or the like of the work as the detected object is provided. As the shape of the first area for detection, a linear area extending in a direction (hereinafter, referred to as a width direction) orthogonal to the conveyor conveyance direction is adopted. Then, by detecting the passage of the sign, the moving speed of the work is obtained, and by detecting the width dimension of the work from the image information based on the first area, an appropriate second image for capturing the image of the work is obtained. , And an appropriate imaging timing can be set. These detection and imaging control are controlled by the system controller 6. The other configuration of the imaging device 41 is the same as that of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of an inspection system to which the image pickup device 41 of the present embodiment is applied, and FIG. 9 is a view of the conveyor device shown in FIG.
FIG. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the end of the conveyor belt 42 is provided with a mark 42a of a predetermined pitch and different shades of reflectivity along the conveying direction. In addition, a linear area HD extending in the width direction orthogonal to the transport direction D0 and covering the belt width is set as a first area in the area HC of the field of view corresponding to the entire photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging device 41.

The image pickup device 41 constantly detects the change in shading of the marker 42a, and detects the transport speed of the conveyor belt 42, that is, the moving speed S of the work 10, from the time interval. And when the work 10 is transported,
The imaging device 41 determines the arrival time T0 of the workpiece 10 from the local image signal in the photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the area HA3, the passing time T1, and the density of the image signal in the linear direction.
The width dimension B4, which is a dimension in the direction orthogonal to the transport direction D0, is detected. The moving speed S and the passing time T1 of the work 10
From the above equation (2),
Find the size L4 (length) of 0. The above detection and calculation processing are performed by the system controller 6 built in the imaging device 41.

Based on the width B4 of the work 10 and the size (length) L4 in the transport direction, the size of the area HB of the second area for reading the image of the work 10 is set. Since the time at which the work 10 arrives at the area HB can be estimated from the work arrival time T0 and the moving speed S, an image of the work 10 can be taken by imaging the area HB at the time of arrival.

As described above, the imaging device 41 of the present embodiment
According to the above, by detecting a change in the density of the image signal of the linear area HD, a size (length) L4 of the moving direction of the work 10 and a width B4 orthogonal to the moving direction are detected. Can be requested. Based on such information, it is possible to set an appropriate area HB of the reading area according to the width and the length of the work 10, and it is also possible to set an imaging timing that matches the work arrival timing. It is possible to further speed up the reading of data and set an appropriate reading timing. Further, since the moving speed is constantly detected, it is possible to immediately respond to a change in the transport speed of the conveyor device.

Next, an imaging apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The imaging device 51 detects the length and skew angle of the workpiece 10 that is the detection target in the moving direction from the local photoelectric conversion output of the photoelectric conversion surface of the CMD2 corresponding to the first region including the two regions, A second area corresponding to the size of the work 10 is set from the length and the skew angle information, and a photoelectric conversion output is read from a local area corresponding to the second area on the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor, and This is for imaging. The other configuration of the imaging device 51 is the same as that of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of an inspection system to which the imaging device 51 of the present embodiment is applied.
FIG. 11 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA 'in FIG. 10, and is a view of the conveyor device viewed from the imaging device side in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11, the two first areas provided in the area Hc of the entire field of view of the imaging device 51 are indicated by an area HE1 and an area HE2, and the transport direction covering the entire width of the conveyor belt 11 and It is a linear area in the direction perpendicular to the direction, that is, the width direction. When the work 10 (A) enters the above-mentioned area, C corresponding to the above-mentioned area HE1 or HE2
By reading the density of the photoelectric conversion output of the limited local area on the photoelectric conversion surface of the MD 2, the position and size of the work 10 in the width direction can be detected.

The skew state of the work 10 at that time is detected from the difference between the light and shade positions of the image in the width direction of the side surface 10a of the work 10 at the positions of the areas HE1 and HE2. The skew state of the work 10 is determined by checking the skew state during the passage of the work 10.
In addition, the above-mentioned area HE1 or area HE2 is
The length L 'of the moving direction of the work 10 in the skewed state is obtained from the time when 0 passes. The length L' of the moving direction in the skewed state and the skew angle? The length L5 along the oblique direction is determined. Further, a width B5 in a direction orthogonal to the skew direction can also be obtained.

Accordingly, an area H which is a second area for imaging the work 10 from the above-mentioned skew angle θ and information on the length L5 and the width B5 of the work 10 along the skew direction.
As the shape and position of B, it is possible to set a skew state of the work 10 and an inclined area suitable for the shape.

Further, the timing of imaging the work 10 (B) on the area HB is determined by the apparatus of the first embodiment, or the moving speed is obtained from time information passing through the area HE1 or the area HE2. Alternatively, the imaging may be performed by estimating the time at which the work 10 reaches the area HB. The above-described control of each detection and readout is performed by the system controller 6.

As described above, the imaging device 51 of the present embodiment
According to the above, two linear areas HE1 and HE2 are set as a first area, and the work 1
The skew angle θ of 0, the length L5 in the skew direction and the width B5 orthogonal to the skew direction, and the moving speed are detected, and based on these information, the skew state of the work 10 and the shape thereof are matched. The size and shape of the area HB of the second area, which is the reading area, can be set, and the imaging timing that matches the work arrival timing can be set. Therefore, an appropriate monitor image suitable for the moving state of the work 10 can be obtained, so that reading can be further speeded up and appropriate reading timing can be set. It is to be noted that each configuration of each of the above-described embodiments can be variously modified and changed. Hereinafter, these will be exemplified.

In one modification, the detecting means newly generates information based on necessary conditions for properly capturing an object to be detected in the field of view of the optical system obtained by its own detecting operation. The above-mentioned imaging apparatus is based on the above-mentioned drawings, wherein an imaging condition for the first area is set. In such an imaging apparatus, information on necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object obtained initially is
Not only is it used as a basis for performing control in the imaging control means, but the imaging conditions for the first area are updated to more appropriate conditions based on the information. An example will be described in which the detection means is configured to scan the two-dimensional imaging device in a line to obtain an imaging output or to obtain the above information based on the output of a separate line sensor. I do. It is conceivable that the object to be detected has various sizes and shapes, and in order to be able to handle all of them, the first region having various sizes and shapes corresponding to the types considered is considered. It must be prepared in advance. However, according to the device of this example, it is possible to adaptively respond to various detected objects.
On the other hand, depending on the process in which the present imaging apparatus is applied, the detected object and the transport form thereof may be substantially uniform. In such a case, the first device is newly added based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly capturing the initially detected object according to the apparatus of this example. By setting the imaging conditions for the area
Area can be set as a necessary minimum. Therefore, after performing this setting, the extraction of the information from the first area becomes useless, and the operation of the detection unit is performed accurately and at high speed.

In another modified example, the detecting means newly generates the second signal based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing the imaging of the second area under the control of the imaging control means. The above-described imaging apparatus is based on the above-described drawings, wherein an imaging condition for one area is set. In such an imaging apparatus, based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing the imaging of the second area, more detailed information is obtained than that obtained from only the first area, A new imaging condition for the first area is set based on such detailed information. With such a configuration, for example, based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of imaging the second area, a number previously assigned to the detected object is recognized, and the number is determined based on this number. Various controls are possible. That is, in the case where the detected objects having different dimensions, shapes, or conveyance forms (placement positions on the conveyor, etc.) are continuously conveyed, the detected objects corresponding to the switching of the type or the conveyance form are determined in advance. A number is assigned, the number is recognized, and imaging conditions (the size, shape, presence / absence of division setting, etc. of the area set as the first area) for the first area are set, and the setting is performed. The position, size, shape, and the like of the line sensor as an image sensor can be appropriately and automatically set to conform to the above.

Further, in another modified example, the image pickup control means relies on the information obtained from the detection means to obtain the second image.
After the initial imaging is performed for the area, the imaging condition for the second area is newly set based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained by the initial imaging, and the second area is set under this setting. The above-described image pickup apparatus is based on the above-mentioned drawings, wherein the image pickup apparatus is used to perform image pickup. In such an imaging apparatus, the imaging of the second area is performed under the control of the imaging control means based on information on necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object obtained initially. Based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result, the imaging condition for the second area is further updated, and imaging is performed using the second area. In this case, once the imaging condition for the second area is updated based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly imaging the detected object initially obtained from the first area, the first The imaging conditions for the region are not changed, and the imaging conditions for the second region are repeatedly updated as necessary. For example, a setting for thinning out the image sensor is performed for the second area, the presence or absence of character information is first detected, and when it is determined that the character is “present”, subsequently, for the same area, By performing reading in the block driving mode (as described above, a mode for reading image signals from a further limited block) in accordance with the position of the character, high-speed and high-precision character recognition can be performed. Can do it. Based on such character recognition, it is of course possible to recognize the stage of the process and take appropriate measures such as stopping or switching the operation.

Further, in another modified example, the detecting means detects an object to be detected entering the field of view of the optical system based on the photoelectric conversion output read out from the first area a plurality of times. The above-described image pickup apparatus is based on the above-mentioned drawings, wherein information relating to a necessary condition for proper image pickup is obtained. In this imaging apparatus, the photoelectric conversion output is obtained a plurality of times from the first area which can be set relatively small and does not take a long time to read, so that the second area which takes a relatively long time to obtain an imaging output Without repeatedly reading
As a whole, highly accurate detection information is obtained within a relatively short time. For example, with respect to the first area, based on information obtained by sequentially performing imaging twice on the detected object in the process of being conveyed, the second area is sequentially processed based on the information obtained.
The imaging condition is set once for the two detected objects that have been subjected to the imaging twice, so that the efficiency of the imaging operation can be improved. In this case, the CM
If D is applied, in the imaging of the second area, image signals can be simultaneously read from a plurality of blocks set apart in the same area, and the imaging efficiency is further improved. Can be.

Further, another modified example is based on the information obtained from the detection means, and in the case where the photoelectric conversion output is read out from the first area a plurality of times, the image pickup for each reading is performed. The above-mentioned image pickup apparatus is based on the above-mentioned respective drawings, wherein the conditions are variably set. In this imaging device, the photoelectric conversion output is obtained a plurality of times from the first area, and the imaging conditions themselves are variably set (updated), so that more appropriate conditions are set, and under these settings, In addition, detailed information can be obtained. Based on this detailed information, the second area, which is the area related to the original imaging of the detected object, can be set with higher accuracy without waste, and the imaging efficiency can be further improved.

Still another modified example is an imaging apparatus wherein the imaging conditions for each reading are variably set, wherein the imaging conditions include an effective exposure time. Things. In this imaging apparatus, the shutter speed and the like are determined based on the detailed and accurate information obtained from the detection means, and the imaging of the second area, which is the area related to the original imaging of the detected object, is performed. The effective exposure time is controlled. In this case, if the CMD is applied as the imaging element, the imaging of the second area can be performed by driving the CMD as a so-called element shutter to obtain an imaging output of an appropriate luminance level.

Further, another modified example is characterized in that the condition of the imaging for each reading is variably set, wherein the condition of the imaging includes the presence or absence of light emission by the flash light emitting means. It is an imaging device. In this imaging apparatus, the necessity / non-necessity of light emission by flash light emitting means such as a strobe is determined and controlled based on the information obtained from the detecting means. For example, CMD2 in FIG.
The image pickup output from the first area set for (1) is input to the signal processing unit 3, and determination / control of necessity / non-necessity of strobe light emission is performed based on the luminance information output from the signal processing unit 3. Perform Since the necessity / non-necessity of the strobe light emission is determined and controlled in the imaging of the second area which is the area related to the original imaging of the detected object, an imaging output under appropriate exposure conditions can be obtained.

Further, in another modified example, the detection means obtains information on the surface roughness of the detected object based on the photoelectric conversion output read from the first area, and the imaging control means Each time, wherein the mode of the thinning-out process relating to image data obtained by imaging according to the second area, which is performed based on the information relating to the surface roughness of the detected object, is defined. This is an imaging apparatus that variably sets the imaging conditions for reading the image. In this imaging apparatus, the detection means obtains information relating to the surface roughness of the detected object, and based on this information, defines the form of a thinning process for image data obtained by imaging the second area. In other words, for example, by selecting the driving mode of the CMD2 according to the degree of surface roughness of the detected object, the imaging of the second area, which is the area related to the original imaging of the detected object,
Imaging at the optimal resolution can be performed.

Further, in another modified example, the imaging control means is configured to define a form of a thinning process for image data obtained by imaging the second area by a driving mode for reading out the imaging device. Imaging performed so as to define the degree of thinning-out processing on image data obtained by imaging of the second region performed based on information on the surface roughness of the detected object, wherein It is a device. In this imaging device, information on the surface roughness of the detected object is obtained by the detection means, and a form of a thinning process for image data obtained by imaging the second area is defined based on this information. For example, an output signal of imaging of the first area by the CMD2 (FIG. 1) is input to the signal processing unit 3. If the resolution mode most suitable for imaging is printed on the surface of the detected object (workpiece 10: FIGS. 2 and 3) in a form described in, for example, a barcode or a sticker is attached,
By reading the information of the optimum resolution mode, the resolution can be set in the device. That is, the CMD is driven at a thinning rate corresponding to this resolution. Based on information obtained based on such driving of the CMD, appropriate thinning processing (CM) corresponding to various surface roughness of each detected object is performed.
D (thinning drive).

Further, in another modified example, the first area according to the detecting means is provided for a plurality of the detected objects moving while their relative positions are kept substantially constant. As an object arrives within its own area almost simultaneously,
The position is divided and set, and the image pickup apparatus described above with reference to each of the above drawings is provided. In this imaging device, detection is performed substantially simultaneously on a plurality of the detected objects that move with their relative positions shifted. This is because, in many devices of this type, the objects to be detected are conveyed so that their absolute positions change, but their relative positions (how to shift each other) maintain a constant interval. In some cases, they are brought in, so it is particularly necessary to take appropriate measures in such cases.

For example, as shown in FIG.
When a plurality of objects to be detected (rectangular ones shown by solid lines) in a state where the positions of the respective ends are not aligned are respectively placed on the top and conveyed in the direction of arrow DO, these objects are also detected. The first region is set to H so that it is detected that both of the detected objects have reached the second region HB, which is the imaging position, almost simultaneously.
The position is shifted and set as F1 and HF2.
Line sensors are provided corresponding to the areas HF1 and HF2. CMD is used as an imaging device on the imaging device side,
By appropriately controlling the driving of this, one CMD
Can function partially as two line sensors respectively corresponding to the regions HF1 and HF2 and as one area sensor corresponding to the second region HB. With such a configuration, the signal processing circuit relating to the output of the image sensor can be used for both the line sensor and the area sensor.

When the CMD is used as the image sensor, both the line sensor and the area sensor can be set so that the read address positions have overlapping portions. It is possible not to be restricted by a condition such as reading of the area sensor. Therefore, required information can be read out quickly. In this manner, both functions of a high-speed line sensor and an area sensor that performs imaging under optimum conditions are performed by one CMD.

Furthermore, depending on the size of the object to be detected, the thinning rates of the pixels at the time of readout for the two line sensors corresponding to the above-mentioned areas HF1 and HF2 are variably set, and the like. It is also possible to keep the resolution of the image pickup to a necessary minimum level, thereby enabling a higher-speed reading. In particular, under conditions where the size of the detected object is sufficiently large and resolution is not required, the two sensors corresponding to the above-described regions HF1 and HF2 are not line sensors, and a spot sensor of one pixel is used as the line sensor. By installing the detector at an appropriate position on the passage of the detection object, the speed can be further increased. In this case as well, the functions of both the high-speed spot sensor and the area sensor that performs imaging under optimal conditions can be performed by one CMD.

Further, in another modification, the first area according to the detecting means is set to have a shape surrounding a predetermined-shaped space so as to conform to the object to be detected. The above-described image pickup apparatus is characterized in that: In this imaging device, the first region according to the detection means is formed so as to surround a central space, and the detected object conveyed from various directions is detected without delay and without waste. .

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the conveyor belts 111, 112, 113, 114 from all directions toward a second area GHB located substantially in the center of the field of view HC of the imaging device.
In order to cope with a device in which the detected object may be conveyed from any of the above, efficient imaging can be performed even when the detected object is conveyed from any direction. is there. The first region is set as a frame-shaped region surrounding the space in the center, as shown by a two-dot chain line, and the sensor that covers imaging in the first region also includes a line sensor in such a region. The combination that is combined into a frame shape is applied. Accordingly, regardless of the direction in which the detected object is conveyed from any direction, the imaging of the first area is performed quickly and efficiently without leaking.

Further, another modified example further includes display means for displaying imaging conditions set for the imaging of the second area based on information obtained by the detection means. The above-described image pickup apparatus is based on the above-mentioned drawings. In this imaging device, imaging conditions set for imaging in the second area are displayed on a display unit.

FIG. 14 exemplifies a state of display on the display device. 14A and 14B show a state in which the first area and the second area are displayed in the entire screen corresponding to the above-described imaging field of view. In FIG. 14A, an output image (corresponding to the first area) when two line sensors respectively corresponding to the areas HF1 and HF2 described with reference to FIG. Square area (second
(Corresponding to the region (1)) is schematically shown. In FIG. 14B, an image (corresponding to the first area) obtained by thinning out the line sensors as outputs of two line sensors corresponding to the areas HF1 and HF2 described with reference to FIG. Is schematically shown in which a rectangular area (corresponding to the second area) indicated by performing the above operation is displayed. The operator of the apparatus can accurately grasp the setting status of the imaging apparatus by looking at the display.

As a display device, a plurality of liquid crystal monitors are combined to form one monitor, the backlight is divided by one liquid crystal monitor so that it can be turned on / off individually, It can be turned on / off so that the display surface of one monitor can be turned on / off for each part. By using such display means, it is possible to realize a display without waste corresponding to the shapes of the first area and the second area and other forms.

[0082]

As described above, according to the image pickup apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, an appropriate second area is set for image pickup of the detected object, and all the photoelectric conversions of the image pickup element corresponding to the area are set. Since the object to be detected is imaged by reading the local photoelectric conversion output in the plane, it is possible to adjust the field of view by adjusting the magnification of the lens or moving the imaging device as in a conventional imaging device. In addition, it is possible to quickly perform the imaging of the detected object with an appropriate size or the continuous imaging.

The image pickup apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention is the first aspect.
In the imaging apparatus of (1), the length of the moving direction of the detected object is determined by detecting the time of entry and extraction of the detected object in the first area and the moving speed of the detected object, and determining the size of the second area. Since the size is set, the size of the second region can be set to an appropriate size.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the imaging apparatus according to the second aspect, the first area is divided into two parts, and an object to be detected moving in the two areas is imaged. Since the moving speed is detected, an accurate moving speed can always be detected.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging apparatus of the first to third aspects, the size in the direction orthogonal to the moving direction is detected. , The size of the second region can be set in the same direction.

The image pickup apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention detects the length in the moving direction and the skew angle from the photoelectric conversion output of the image pickup element corresponding to the first area composed of two areas, and uses the information as the information. Since the size and the shape of the second area for imaging the detected object are set based on this, it is possible to perform the imaging in the second area that matches the size and the skew state of the detected object. it can.

In the imaging apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the conditions for imaging the first area are more improved based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly imaging the object to be detected obtained at the beginning. Updated to the appropriate one. Therefore,
High quality images can be obtained.

In the imaging apparatus according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly imaging the object to be detected initially obtained under the control of the imaging control means, Based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing the imaging for the area, the imaging condition for the first area is further updated to a more appropriate one. Therefore, a high-quality image can be obtained.

In the imaging apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, based on the information on the necessary conditions for properly imaging the object to be detected initially obtained under the control of the imaging control means, Based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing the imaging for the area, the imaging conditions for the second area are further updated, and imaging is performed using the second area. Therefore, a high-quality image can be obtained.

In the image pickup apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the first apparatus can be set relatively small and does not take much time for reading.
By obtaining the photoelectric conversion output from the area a plurality of times, highly accurate detection information can be obtained in a relatively short time.

In the imaging device according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the first
The photoelectric conversion output is obtained a plurality of times from the region (a), and the imaging conditions are variably set. Therefore, highly accurate imaging conditions can be determined in a relatively short time.

In the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention, the effective exposure time such as the shutter speed is controlled based on the information obtained from the detection means. Appropriate exposure control can be performed.

In the imaging apparatus according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the necessity / non-necessity of light emission by flash light emitting means such as a strobe is determined and controlled based on information obtained from the detecting means. Appropriate exposure control with light emission by a flash light emitting means such as a strobe light can be performed as required.

[0094] In the imaging apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, information relating to the surface roughness of the detected object is obtained by the detecting means, and the thinning process for the image data obtained by imaging the second area is performed based on this information. Is defined. Therefore, it is possible to perform imaging at an appropriate resolution corresponding to the surface roughness of the detected object.

In the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, information relating to the surface roughness of the object to be detected is obtained by the detecting means, and thinning processing relating to image data obtained by imaging the second area is performed based on this information. Is defined. Therefore, it is possible to perform imaging at an appropriate resolution corresponding to the surface roughness of the detected object.

In the imaging apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, detection is performed substantially simultaneously on a plurality of the detected objects that move with their relative positions shifted. Therefore, highly efficient imaging is performed.

[0097] In the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, the first area of the detection means may be formed so as to surround a central space, and the object to be detected conveyed from various directions may be detected. Detect without delay and without waste. Therefore, highly efficient imaging is performed even under conditions where the detected object is conveyed from various directions.

In the imaging device according to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the second
The imaging conditions set for the imaging relating to the region are displayed on the display means. Therefore, the operator of the apparatus can accurately grasp the setting conditions of the imaging conditions.

[0099]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of a detection system to which the imaging device of FIG. 1 is applied.

FIG. 3 is a view taken along the line AA ′ in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a state of transporting a work as a detected object in a conveyor device of a detection system to which an imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention is applied, and FIG.
Is a state in which the work is immediately before the detection area, (B) is a state at the moment when the work enters the detection area, (C) is a state in which the work enters the detection area, and (D) is a state in which the work is detected. (E) shows a state indicating the moment when the workpiece leaves the area, and (E) shows a state where the workpiece has left the detection area.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a change in light incident on the CMD from a detection area detected by the imaging device in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of a detection system to which an imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 7 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA ′ in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a conveyor device of a detection system to which an imaging device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 9 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA ′ in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of a detection system to which an imaging device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 11 is a view taken in the direction of arrows AA ′ in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining one modified example of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining another modification of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining still another modified example of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a conventional imaging apparatus.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a conveyor device of a detection system to which the conventional imaging device of FIG. 12 is applied.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 13;

[Explanation of symbols]

2 CMD (imaging element) 6 System controller (imaging control means, detecting means, speed detecting means, orthogonal dimension detecting means) 7 Imaging lens (optical system) 10 Workpiece (object to be detected) HC Field of view of optical system HA, HA1, HA2 , HD, HE1, HE2, PA area (first area) HB area (second area) S moving speed T1 time from entering into first area to leaving T2 divided area of first area X3 The time from entering one to the other X3 Distance from one of the divided areas of the first area to the other (distance L)

Claims (17)

[Claims] An optical system having a field of view set to match an object to be detected, and a photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the field of view of said optical system, wherein a plurality of limited An imaging device capable of reading a photoelectric conversion output from an area, based on a photoelectric conversion output read from a locally set first area in a photoelectric conversion surface of the imaging element. ,
Detecting means for obtaining information relating to required conditions for properly imaging a detected object entering the field of view of the optical system; and a photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor based on information obtained by the detecting means. An imaging control unit that performs imaging of the detected object using a second region set locally in the imaging device. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the detecting means includes a speed detecting means for detecting a moving speed of the detected object, and a time T1 from when the detected object enters the first area to when the detected object exits the first area.
From the moving speed S detected by the speed detecting means, S ×
2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the length of the detected object in the moving direction is detected by T1. 3. The speed detecting means divides the first area into two parts in the moving direction, and starts the operation when the object to be detected enters one of the divided parts of the first area. Time T2 until entering the other part of the first area
3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a moving speed S is detected by L / T2 from a distance L between one of the divided first areas and the other. 4. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising orthogonal dimension detecting means for detecting a size in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction based on image information picked up in the first area. The length in the moving direction and the size in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction depend on the length of the detected object in the moving direction and the size in the direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the detected object detected by the orthogonal dimension detecting means. With respect to the above, the second area occupying a size suitable for monitoring the detected object is determined, and a local area corresponding to the second area on the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the visual field is used. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus captures an image of the detected object by using the imaging apparatus. 5. An optical system having a field of view set so as to conform to an object to be detected, and a photoelectric conversion surface corresponding to the field of view of the optical system. An image pickup device capable of reading a photoelectric conversion output from a region, wherein the photoelectric conversion surface of the image pickup device has a photoelectric conversion surface. Length in the moving direction of the detected object based on the converted output,
And detecting means for detecting the skew angle, the length of the detected object in the moving direction obtained by the detecting means,
And a size suitable for monitoring the detected object based on information on the skew angle of the object, and a local area in the photoelectric conversion surface of the image sensor corresponding to the field of view so as to occupy the position. An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging control unit configured to set a second area as an area and to image an object to be detected using the second area. 6. The first detecting means newly detects the first condition based on information on a necessary condition for properly imaging an object to be detected in the visual field of the optical system obtained by its own detecting operation. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an imaging condition for an area is set. 7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit newly performs imaging of the first region based on a photoelectric conversion output obtained as a result of performing imaging of the second region under the control of the imaging control unit. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein conditions are set. 8. The imaging control means performs initial imaging of the second area based on information obtained from the detection means, and then performs the imaging based on the photoelectric conversion output obtained by the initial imaging. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an imaging condition relating to the second area is newly set, and imaging is performed using the second area under the setting. 9. The detecting means according to claim 1, wherein said detecting means includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion outputs read out from said first area a plurality of times to appropriately image an object to be detected in a field of view of said optical system. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus obtains information on conditions. 10. The image pickup control means, based on information obtained from the detection means, sets an image pickup condition for each read when reading a photoelectric conversion output from the first area a plurality of times. 10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the setting is variably set. 11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said imaging condition includes an effective exposure time. 12. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said image pickup condition includes presence or absence of light emission by a flash light emitting unit. 13. The detecting means obtains information on the surface roughness of the detected object based on the photoelectric conversion output read from the first area, and the imaging control means obtains information on the surface roughness of the detected object. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a form of a thinning-out process for image data obtained by imaging in the second area performed based on the information according to the above is defined. 14. The imaging control means according to claim 1, wherein a mode of a thinning-out process relating to image data obtained by imaging in said second area is defined by a drive mode for reading out an image sensor. The imaging device according to claim 13, wherein: 15. The first area according to the detecting means, wherein the plurality of detected objects move within their own area substantially simultaneously with respect to the plurality of detected objects moving while their relative positions are maintained substantially constant. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the position is divided and set so as to reach. 16. The method according to claim 16, wherein the first area according to the detection means is set to have a shape surrounding a space having a predetermined shape so as to conform to the object to be detected. The imaging device according to claim 1. 17. The image processing apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising display means for displaying an imaging condition set for the imaging of the second area based on information obtained by the detection means. The imaging device according to claim 1.