Addressing Complex Optical and Spectral Challenges of LED Light Sources in Hyperspectral Machine Vision

The development of hyperspectral LED lighting solutions for machine vision presents unique challenges. A consistent spectral emission curve is paramount in hyperspectral applications, where even minor fluctuations can significantly impact image analysis accuracy. Achieving an even spectral curve ensures consistent and unbiased data across all wavelengths, and is essential for reliable imaging, particularly in the demanding environments of line scan and area scan imaging.

A significant challenge is managing individual wavelengths within the hyperspectral range. Since, each wavelength can exhibit a distinct behavior under varying drive currents and temperature, precise control mechanisms are necessary to achieve stability across the spectral range. Effective hyperspectral lighting requires advanced thermal management, real-time wavelength monitoring, and fine-grain current control to maintain a balanced spectral output.

In machine vision applications, spatially uniform LED lighting across the entire field of view is crucial, whether in line scan or area scan imaging environments. For line scan imaging, stable hyperspectral lighting is essential to avoid streaking and artifacts, which can arise from spectral inconsistencies along the scan path. In area scan imaging, maintaining uniform illumination across the target ensures high-quality data capture and minimizes post-processing adjustments.

Developing hyperspectral LED lighting solutions requires deep technical expertise to balance these complexities against affordability and longevity. Leveraging deep technical knowledge in spectral management and thermal dynamics, Branch delivers LED lighting solutions designed to enhance machine vision applications, offering both stability and accuracy at a competitive price point.

About the presenter
Matthew Branch, Ph.D., is a senior product manager at ProPhotonix Ltd., a LED light and laser diode module manufacturer of machine vision lighting systems worldwide. Educated in the field of semiconductor physics, Branch now also has over 15 years of experience in the field of LED industrial, and machine vision lighting. He is based in the LED manufacturing facility located in Cork, Ireland and on a day-to-day basis, he manages many of the product lifecycles within the ProPhotonix product offering.

Supporting the sales team within ProPhotonix, he interacts closely with end-users in specifying the correct LED or laser-based system suitable for their application. This requires a thorough understanding of the capabilities of the ProPhotonix product offerings, and how to best apply them for maximum results. In the case of custom or OEM products, Branch works closely with customers at a very early stage to translate their product requirements into a realistic, and cost-effective development proposal.