Hi,
I have been asked to look into the feasibility of using Vision S/W and H/W inorder to
automate verification testing of avionics boxes with Active Matrix or LCD displays.
The display size is typically 4X5 inches. I think the requirement would be simple -
take a snapshot of the display and get the text/numeric data from specific fields.
This would be repeated for a number of different screens. I might have to verify that
the data field is in the right location on the screen as well. Most of the box
displays are monochrome active matrix Electro luminescent, but newer products are
using color LCD displays. The resolution of the displays range from 320X192 up to 640
X480. I am a Labview programmer with 8 years of experience, but have no experience
with machine vision. I would really appreciate it if anyone out there that has done
something similar to this could provide answers to the following questions:
1. What type of camera would be required for this type of app, with what resolution?
Do I really need a video camera or could I just use a single shot digital camera.
2. What NI board would I need.
3. How long would it take an experienced Labview programmer to come up to speed with
the Vision Development module and OCR inorder to be able to produce a simple demo
(grab a frame, read data from two or three fields)?
4. I am using Labview 6.0.2 - will I have to upgrade to 7.1 inorder to use the latest
Vision Development Module?
5. What will the lighting issues be - since the display is back lit, would I even need
additional light? Would I have to block outside light?
6. Would I also be able to perform optical testing of Luminance, chromaticity,
legibility and pixel defects (not a requirement but for future growth ;)
7. What is recommended for fixturing.
8. Once up to speed with the vision tools, how quickly could a test for a new screen
be done - hours, days??
I really look forward to the challenge of learning vision acquisition techniques, but
I am a bit worried that I may have bitten off a little more than I can chew ;)
Any help with this would be greatly appreciated,
Howard Spec
CMC Electronics
Ottawa, Canada
