Abstract: In a machine vision system editing environment for a part program, a continuous stream of image acquisition operations are performed during a run mode. Previously, a continuous stream of image acquisition operations was achieved by utilizing different programming representations and syntax for programming and grouping image acquisition operations together in the part program. A new common syntax and representations are utilized wherein such continuous image acquisition operations are recorded in the same way as regular operations, with the running of the part program being performed in two stages. First, the portion of the part program that is to have the continuous stream of image acquisition is scanned for image acquisition operations, and the most efficient order for acquiring the images is determined. Second, while the image acquisition process is being performed, the portion of the part program is scanned again, with the image analysis operations then being performed.

Abstract: In a machine vision system editing environment for a part program, a continuous stream of image acquisition operations are performed during a run mode. Previously, a continuous stream of image acquisition operations was achieved by utilizing different programming representations and syntax for programming and grouping image acquisition operations together in the part program. A new common syntax and representations are utilized wherein such continuous image acquisition operations are recorded in the same way as regular operations, with the running of the part program being performed in two stages. First, the portion of the part program that is to have the continuous stream of image acquisition is scanned for image acquisition operations, and the most efficient order for acquiring the images is determined. Second, while the image acquisition process is being performed, the portion of the part program is scanned again, with the image analysis operations then being performed.

Abstract: A system and method for tool enhancements are provided which allow users to utilize video tools in a controlled manner. The video tools balance a minimal amount of cursor positioning and “mouse clicks” against a level of video tool “customization” control desired by a user when applying the video tools. Tool construction methods using multiple mouse clicks are provided as an alternative to using drag-and-draw and one-click tools. Multi-click-plus tools give more specific information and provide a precise way to rapidly create customized tools.

Abstract: A method is provided for converting joystick deflection into a speed of relative motion between a image system and a workpiece stage in a computer vision system. The conversion of joystick deflection into speed may be described in terms of a speed/deflection profile that corresponds a present lens characteristics of the system. In one embodiment, the speed/deflection response of the system depends relatively strongly on the present lens characteristic at relatively lower deflections and depends on relatively weakly on the present lens characteristic as the deflection approaches a maximum deflection. The system is advantageous in that, for any lens used, it maintains consistent ergonomic and visual feel at small joystick deflections which typically occur during ostensible precision maneuvers, but is also able to provide fast long-range traverses for large joystick deflections.

Abstract: A precision machine vision inspection system and method for increased inspection throughput. The vision inspection system includes a movable stage for scanning and measuring selected workpiece features. In prior systems, conventional interspersing of image processing and inspection operations with image acquisition operations required stopping and starting the stage motion during image acquisition, necessitating associated delays or wait-states in various operations. Such delays are avoided in this invention by acquiring images continuously, with a timing that is independent of image inspection operations, so that delays and wait-states are avoided. In addition, continuous stage motion is combined with a strobe lighting feature during the image acquisition operations to acquire blur-free images at a high rate. Improved image acquisition and image analysis routines including these features are created and stored by the system.

Abstract: A method is provided for converting joystick deflection into a speed of relative motion between a image system and a workpiece stage in a computer vision system. The conversion of joystick deflection into speed may be described in terms of a speed/deflection profile that corresponds a present lens characteristics of the system. In one embodiment, the speed/deflection response of the system depends relatively strongly on the present lens characteristic at relatively lower deflections and depends on relatively weakly on the present lens characteristic as the deflection approaches a maximum deflection. The system is advantageous in that, for any lens used, it maintains consistent ergonomic and visual feel at small joystick deflections which typically occur during ostensible precision maneuvers, but is also able to provide fast long-range traverses for large joystick deflections.