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Image Acquisition and Analysis in LabVIEW
LabVIEW is an excellent tool for machine vision applications. An add-on to LabVIEW called "NI Vision" allows camera images to be acquired and analysed. Pattern matching and/or precise alignment can be performed (the latter requiring the use of motors). Character recogition can also be performed, along with image-based measurements.
We have written programs for sub-micron laser-machining of optical fibres and for sub-micron alignment and bonding of MEMS wafers. The image below shows 2 MEMS wafers. The upper wafer, with the smaller markings, is closest to the camera whilst the lower wafer with the slightly larger markings can been seen "through" it. Our software, written for Applied Microengineering Ltd, first raises the lower wafer, using a motor, till it is in focus (using an auto-focussing algorithm that we have developed). Then it recognises the 2 cross-shaped marks and uses 3 further motors to position the lower cross so that the the upper cross sits perfectly inside it (see second image).
Wafers prior to alignment of marks
Wafers with marks precisely aligned using image analysis and motor control
LabVIEW can be be used for almost any image acquisition and analysis project!
