LEDs illuminate the objects in various colors and continuous brightness settings as well as different incident angles and a combination of coaxial and off-axis lighting. These settings are stored as parameter sets for the different process steps and magnification levels. They are retrieved from the sequence code in the automated process and form the basis for reliable and repeatable machine vision routines.

The optics are chosen according to the required magnification and field of view. Motorized zoom lenses allow to work in different magnification levels in a calibrated way. Color or black and white cameras can be selected.

For laser welding procedures, a view along the weld beam is used. This allows to use the motion system of the weld heads with the aid of machine vision for precise positioning of the weld spots.

Standard machine vision algorithms in the TestMaster Process Software include a live camera picture, superimposed cross-hairs, edge detection, pattern recognition, optical character recognition and autofocus.

Virtual cursors allow to pre-position only on the camera picture before the actual positioning system follows. This avoids crahs situation in space-restricted applications. In addition, the cursors can be used for precise measurements of distances which can be used as basis for subsequent movements.