U.S. patent application number 13/079938 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-13 for image processing apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to OMRON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Daisuke MITANI, Koji SHIMADA, Yuki TANIYASU, Takeshi YOSHIURA.
Application Number | 20110249025 13/079938 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44201942 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110249025 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MITANI; Daisuke ; et
al. |
October 13, 2011 |
IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS
Abstract
An image is displayed without impairing visibility, even in the
case of a screen having a limited size. A display setting unit
includes a target image display unit that displays an image of a
workpiece on an LCD, an image selection unit that, in accordance
with a selection operation, selects all or part of the image of the
workpiece displayed on the LCD, a menu display unit that displays a
menu image so as to be overlapped with the image of the workpiece
in a translucent state, the menu image being made up of a plurality
of parts that are partial images for displaying information or
receiving an input operation, and a display switching unit that, in
accordance with a switching instruction given via the operation
unit, switches the size of the area occupied by the menu image on
the LCD.
Inventors: |
MITANI; Daisuke; (Nara-shi,
JP) ; TANIYASU; Yuki; (Fukuchiyama-shi, JP) ;
YOSHIURA; Takeshi; (Ayabe-shi, JP) ; SHIMADA;
Koji; (Ayabe-shi, JP) |
Assignee: |
OMRON CORPORATION
Kyoto-shi
JP
|
Family ID: |
44201942 |
Appl. No.: |
13/079938 |
Filed: |
April 5, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
345/629 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09G 2340/12 20130101;
G09G 2354/00 20130101; G06T 2200/32 20130101; G06T 7/0004 20130101;
G06T 2200/24 20130101; G09G 5/377 20130101; G06T 11/60 20130101;
G09G 2340/145 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/629 |
International
Class: |
G09G 5/00 20060101
G09G005/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 7, 2010 |
JP |
2010-088859 |
Claims
1. An image processing apparatus for processing an image of a
target object while displaying the image of the target object on a
display unit for inspection of the target object, the image
processing apparatus comprising: a target image display unit that
displays the image of the target object on the display unit; an
image selection unit that, in accordance with a selection
operation, selects all or part of the image of the target object
displayed on the display unit; and a menu display unit that
displays a menu image so as to be overlapped with the image of the
target object in a translucent state, the menu image being made up
of a plurality of parts that are partial images for displaying
information or receiving an input operation, wherein the menu
display unit includes a display switching unit that, in accordance
with an external switching instruction, switches the menu image
displayed on the display unit such that the size of an area
occupied by the menu image on the image of the target object is
different.
2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in
accordance with the switching instruction, the display switching
unit performs switching such that the number of parts displayed in
the menu image on the display unit is different.
3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in
accordance with the switching instruction, the display switching
unit switches between display and non-display for all of the parts
of the menu image on the display unit.
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein in
accordance with the switching instruction, the display switching
unit switches between display and non-display of the entirety of
the menu image on the display unit.
5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: an instruction unit that is operated in order to give
the switching instruction, wherein the instruction unit is fixedly
displayed at a predetermined position in a screen of the display
unit.
6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
image selection unit can select a portion of the image of the
target object that is overlapped with any of the plurality of parts
as well.
7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
display unit and the image processing apparatus are integrally
configured so as to be portable.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority based on 35 USC 119 from
prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-088859 filed on Apr. 7,
2010, entitled "IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS", the entire contents of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates to an image processing
apparatus, and in particular to an image processing apparatus that
controls display of a processing target image and display of a menu
related to image processing functions on the same screen.
[0004] 2. RELATED ART
[0005] In the field of FA (Factory Automation) and the like, a
so-called visual sensor is used as an apparatus for optically
detecting defects in half-finished products in the manufacturing
process, in finished products before shipping, and the like, and
for optically measuring the size of such defects.
[0006] When performing detection and measurement with a visual
sensor, an image of a workpiece (object) is captured, and
inspection and measurement are carried out by performing various
types of image processing on the captured image. When a visual
sensor is installed at an actual manufacturing site or the like, an
image processing apparatus is used to process the captured input
image that has been output from the imaging apparatus included in
the visual sensor. A user then displays the input image on a
monitor, and sets values for various items related to inspection
and measurement while checking the displayed input image. A
function for displaying an image serving as the processing target
and an image processing menu on the same screen is proposed in
Patent Document 1,for example.
[Related Art Documents]
[Patent Documents]
[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
No. H07-160456
SUMMARY
[0008] Patent Document 1 discloses a display method for dividing a
display screen into a work area in which the processing target
image is displayed and a display area in which the image processing
menu is displayed. As long as the screen is sufficiently large, the
visibility of the processing target image will not suffer even if
the work area and the image processing menu display area are
displayed on the same screen at the same time.
[0009] However, the screen size is limited in the case of, for
example, a mobile display device to be carried around a
manufacturing site or the like, and therefore when the area for
displaying the processing target image and the image processing
menu display area are displayed on the same screen at the same time
as in Patent Document 1, the areas will inevitably be small. For
this reason, the user cannot sufficiently check the processing
target image when selecting an item from the menu while checking
the processing target image, and thus operation of such a display
is difficult.
[0010] An embodiment of the invention provides an image processing
apparatus for processing an image of a target object while
displaying the image of the target object on a display unit for
inspection of the target object, the image processing apparatus
including: a target image display unit that displays the image of
the target object on the display unit; an image selection unit
that, in accordance with a selection operation, selects all or part
of the image of the target object displayed on the display unit;
and a menu display unit that displays a menu image so as to be
overlapped with the image of the target object in a translucent
state, the menu image being made up of a plurality of parts that
are partial images for displaying information or receiving an input
operation, wherein the menu display unit includes a display
switching unit that, in accordance with an external switching
instruction, switches the menu image displayed on the display unit
such that the size of an area occupied by the menu image on the
image of the target object is different.
[0011] Preferably, in accordance with the switching instruction,
the display switching unit performs switching such that the number
of parts displayed in the menu image on the display unit is
different.
[0012] Preferably, in accordance with the switching instruction,
the display switching unit switches between display and non-display
for all of the parts of the menu image on the display unit.
[0013] Preferably, in accordance with the switching instruction,
the display switching unit switches between display and non-display
of the entirety of the menu image on the display unit.
[0014] Preferably, the image processing apparatus further includes:
an instruction unit that is operated to give the switching
instruction, wherein the instruction unit is fixedly displayed at a
predetermined position on the screen of the display unit.
[0015] Preferably, the display unit and the image processing
apparatus are integrally configured so as to be portable.
[0016] According to the apparatus above, a menu image made up of a
plurality of parts that are partial images for displaying
information or receiving an input operation is displayed overlapped
with the image of the target object in a translucent state, and
switching can be performed in accordance with an external switching
instruction so as to vary the size of the area occupied by the menu
image on the display unit. This enables displaying of an image
without impairing visibility even on a display unit having a
limited screen size. As a result, it is possible to easily operate
the image processing apparatus even in the case of selecting all or
part of the displayed image of the target object.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall
configuration of a visual sensor system according to an
embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a block configuration diagram of the visual sensor
system according to the embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing data exchanged
between a display setting unit and the visual sensor according to
the embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration
for performing image synthesis processing according to the;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of image processing in an adjustment
mode according to the embodiment;
[0022] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0023] FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0024] FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0025] FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0026] FIGS. 10A to 10C are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0027] FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams showing examples of display
screens according to the embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen
according to the embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating how the visual sensor
according to the embodiment is attached;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating how a plurality of visual
sensors according to the embodiment are attached;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an overall
configuration of a visual sensor system according to another
embodiment; and
[0032] FIG. 16 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image
processing apparatus of the visual sensor system according to the
other embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of
the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that
portions in the drawings that are the same or correspond to each
other have been given the same reference signs, and redundant
descriptions thereof will not be given.
[0034] Although an image processing apparatus is described below as
a display setting unit integrally including a screen for display,
there is no limitation to this. The screen for display may be
provided separately. Also, although the image processing apparatus
is provided separately from a visual sensor having an imaging unit
for obtaining an input image, the image processing apparatus may be
built into the visual sensor.
[0035] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall
configuration of a visual sensor system including an image
processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2
shows a configuration of a display setting unit and a visual sensor
according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 schematically shows
data exchanged between the display setting unit and the visual
sensor according to the present embodiment.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, in visual sensor system 1 according to
the present embodiment, a visual sensor 200 and a display setting
unit 201 corresponding to the image processing apparatus are
connected by a transmission cable 202 so as to be able to
communicate with each other in accordance with a predetermined
protocol. An IO cable 203 connects the visual sensor 200 and a PLC
(Programmable Logic Controller) 400 so as to be able to
communicable with each other. The PLC 400 performs overall control
of the visual sensor system 1 by receiving signals from another
apparatus and transmitting signals to the other apparatus.
[0037] A plurality of visual sensors 200 may be connected to the
display setting unit 201 via transmission cable 202 and a hub (not
shown). A user can control image processing and image capture
processing by transmitting data for image processing and image
capture processing to visual sensor 200 via display setting unit
201. Display setting unit 201 receives image processing results
from visual sensor 200 and displays them.
[0038] Visual sensor 200 is powered from an external power supply
(not shown) via IO cable 203.
[0039] Visual sensor system 1 is incorporated in a production line,
for example. Visual sensor system 1 executes processing such as
character recognition and imperfection inspection (hereinafter,
also referred to as "inspection processing") based on an image
obtained by imaging an inspection target (the later-described
"workpiece 2").
[0040] Visual sensor 200 includes an imaging unit 212 and a
controller unit 213, and imaging unit 212 has an illumination unit
211 and an imaging lens 221. A microcomputer is built into the
controller unit 213. The casing of visual sensor 200 is provided
with an attachment unit 214 for attaching visual sensor 200 to a
support member (not shown).
[0041] Display setting unit 201 has an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
touch panel 204 that includes a LCD integrated with a touch panel
for receiving input of an operation instruction due to the LCD
screen being touched by a finger or a special-purpose pen. Display
setting unit 201 receives image data captured by imaging unit 212
and displays the image data on LCD touch panel 204, and also
receives input of an instruction given from a user operation from
LCD touch panel 204, and transmits the instruction to controller
unit 213 of visual sensor 200.
[0042] Next is a description of communication data exchanged
between visual sensor 200 and display setting unit 201 with
reference to FIG. 3. The communication data includes data that is
transmitted from visual sensor 200 to display setting unit 201,
namely current value data 500 indicating the current values of
various types of parameters related to inspection processing,
inspection result data 502, and an input image that imaging unit
212 obtains by capturing an image of the workpiece 2. The
communication data also includes data transmitted from display
setting unit 201 to visual sensor 200, namely setting value data
501 that has been set for the various parameters related to
inspection processing.
[0043] Next is a description of the configuration of visual sensor
200 and display setting unit 201 with reference to FIG. 2. Visual
sensor 200 includes illumination unit 211, imaging unit 212 for
capturing an image of workpiece 2, and controller unit 213. Imaging
unit 212 has imaging lens 221 and camera 222.
[0044] Illumination unit 211 includes an illumination control
system 223 that has an illumination lens 224 and an LED (Light
Emitting Diode) 225 serving as the light source.
[0045] Controller unit 213 includes an indicator light control unit
227 that controls an indicator light (not shown) such as a lamp,
CPU 226 for controlling visual sensor 200, power supply system 228
for supplying power to various units, an external device
communication system 229 that is connected to transmission cable
202, an input/output system 230 for inputting and outputting data
from and to an external device, and a memory 231 for storing
various types of data such as current value data 500 for the
various parameters related to images, inspection results, and image
processing.
[0046] Display setting unit 201 includes power supply unit 240 for
supplying power to various units, operation unit 241 such as a
touch panel on which an operation is performed to input an external
instruction, LCD 242, LCD control unit 243 that controls LCD 242,
display image control unit 244 that controls the display of images
on LCD 242 via LCD control unit 243, an image storage unit 245 for
storing images, an image control unit 246, and a transmission unit
247. Display setting unit 201 has a microcomputer providing the
functionality of LCD control unit 243, display image control unit
244, image control unit 246, and the like.
[0047] Transmission unit 247 is connected to transmission cable 202
and includes a switch 248 for performing input switching. In the
present embodiment, a plurality of visual sensors 200 can be
connected to display setting unit 201 via transmission cable 202.
Transmission unit 247 has a plurality of input ports for
communicating with a plurality of visual sensors 200. Switch 248
selects one of the input ports in accordance with a command from
the microcomputer. This enables display setting unit 201 to
communicate with visual sensor 200 that is connected to the
selected input port.
[0048] Display setting unit 201 has been made compact so as to be
capable of being carried by a user who patrols a manufacturing line
at a manufacturing site or the like, and therefore the screen size
of LCD 242 has also been reduced.
[0049] LCD 242 displays images based on a control signal from LCD
control unit 243. Based on an image signal from display image
control unit 244, LCD control unit 243 generates a control signal
for controlling display processing performed by LCD 242, and
outputs the control signal to LCD 242.
[0050] Operation unit 241 includes, for example, switches provided
on the outer side of the casing of display setting unit 201, and a
tablet (not shown) that covers the surface of LCD 242. LCD 242 and
the tablet comprise a touch panel. The user inputs various types of
instructions (or commands) to display setting unit 201 via the
switches and the touch panel.
[0051] Display image control unit 244 generates a synthesized image
303 based on an instruction signal 304 from operation unit 241, an
image 306 sent from image control unit 246, an input image 300
received from visual sensor 200 via transmission unit 247, and
current value data 500, and outputs synthesized image 303 to LCD
control unit 243.
[0052] Display image control unit 244 also receives an input of
values based on instruction signal 304 from operation unit 241, and
outputs the values to transmission unit 247 as setting value data
501. Setting value data 501 are transmitted to visual sensor 200
via transmission unit 247.
[0053] Image control unit 246 stores the input image received from
visual sensor 200 in image storage unit 245. Image control unit 246
also reads out the image stored in image storage unit 245, and
outputs the readout image to display image control unit 244.
[0054] In the present embodiment, a display setting screen is
displayed on LCD 242 of display setting unit 201 in order to
display current value data 500 related to items from inspection
processing and to allow the user to input the setting value data
501. The following is a detailed description of a method for
generating the display setting screen.
[0055] FIG. 4 shows an example of the configuration of display
image control unit 244 according to the present embodiment. As
shown in FIG. 4, display image control unit 244 includes a menu
image signal generation unit 251, a synthesis unit 252, and a
storage unit 253.
[0056] In the present embodiment, the display setting screen is
assumed to be made up of a plurality of setting screens in a
hierarchy. Menu image signal generation unit 251 generates menu
images 302 that are used in the setting screens. Menu images 302
are made up of a plurality of UI (User Interface) parts, which are
partial images for displaying information such as various types of
parameter values related to image processing for inspection
processing and for receiving a user input operation. The parameter
values are adjustable for each image processing item, and the UI
parts include, for example, icons and checkboxes for selecting
processing items whose parameter values are to be adjusted among
the image processing items, and textboxes and slide bars for the
input of parameter values. When a UI part corresponding to one of
the processing items is designated and an operation is performed
thereon, menu image 302 of the next rank in the hierarchy for
setting a parameter value for the processing item corresponding to
the designated UI part is generated, and a synthesized image 303
generated using that menu image 302 is displayed.
[0057] Menu image signal generation unit 251 generates a menu image
signal based on information 301 related to the type and location of
the UI part read out from storage unit 253, instruction signal 304
output from operation unit 241, and current value data 500 read out
from memory 231 of visual sensor 200, and outputs the generated
menu image 302 to synthesis unit 252.
[0058] Synthesis unit 252 receives an input of images 300 or 306
sent in units of frames and menu image 302 output from menu image
signal generation unit 251. Synthesis unit 252 synthesizes menu
image 302 in units of frames so as to be superimposed on images 300
or 306, and outputs synthesized images 303 that have been
synthesized in units of frames. Menu image 302 sent to synthesis
unit 252 corresponds to an input image received from visual sensor
200 that was obtained by imaging workpiece 2, or a captured image
of workpiece 2 that was read out from image storage unit 245 of
image control unit 246. Note that synthesis unit 252 outputs images
300 or 306 as they are if menu image 302 has not been sent.
Accordingly, in this case, synthesized images 303 correspond to
images 300 or 306.
[0059] LCD control unit 243 receives an input of the synthesized
image 303 from display image control unit 244, generates a control
signal for displaying the synthesized image 303, and controls LCD
242 using the generated control signal. Accordingly, synthesized
image 303 is displayed on the screen of LCD 242 while being updated
in units of frame.
[0060] Here, menu image signal generation unit 251 and synthesis
unit 252 of the present embodiment variably set parameter values
indicating the transparency of each pixel of menu image 302 when
synthesis is performed. The parameter values are, for example,
.alpha. (alpha) values in a blend processing related to image
transparency processing.
[0061] A pixel becomes opaque if the parameter value is set to the
maximum value, becomes transparent if the parameter value is set to
"0", and becomes translucent if the parameter value is set to an
intermediate value therebetween. Since the pixels of menu image 302
to be displayed by LCD 242 are set to be translucent, menu image
302 is displayed superimposed on image 300 in a translucent state.
Accordingly, the user can check the current values of the various
parameters related to inspection processing and set such values
while checking image 300 displayed under menu image 302.
[0062] Visual sensor system 1 of the present embodiment has various
operating modes, including an adjustment mode in which the values
of the various parameters related to inspection processing are set
by being adjusted, and an operation mode in which the workpieces 2
on the manufacturing line are subjected to inspection processing.
Images (including synthesized images) are displayed by display
setting unit 201 in both the adjustment mode and the operation
mode. Although a description of image processing in the adjustment
mode is provided below, the switching of menu images described
below can be similarly applied in the operation mode as well.
[0063] FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of image processing performed by
display setting unit 201 in the adjustment mode according to the
present embodiment. The following describes an image processing
procedure of the present embodiment with reference to FIG. 5. Note
that the image 300 may be replaced with the image 306 in the
following description.
[0064] When the adjustment mode starts, synthesized image 303
generated by menu image 302 of the highest rank in the hierarchy,
being superimposed on image 300, is displayed on LCD 242 (step
S3).
[0065] When synthesized image 303 is displayed, the user selects an
item whose parameter value is to be set by operation unit 241 (step
S7). Menu image signal generation unit 251 receives an input of
instruction signal 304 corresponding to the selected item (step
S9), and generates and outputs menu image 302 of the next rank in
accordance with the received instruction signal 304 (step S11).
Synthesis unit 252 generates synthesized image 303 by superimposing
menu image 302 of the next rank onto image 300, and outputs the
synthesized image 303 (step S12). Accordingly, LCD 242 displays
synthesized image 303 in accordance with a control signal generated
by LCD control unit 243 (step S13).
[0066] The user inputs a setting value for any of the various
parameters by using operation unit 241 and a UI part in the
synthesized image 303.
[0067] Instruction signal 304 related to the setting value that was
input is sent to menu image signal generation unit 251, and
thereafter menu image signal generation unit 251 generates and
outputs menu image 302 in accordance with instruction signal 304.
Accordingly, synthesized image 303 on LCD 242 is updated to a
synthesized image 303 in which a value, data, or the like is
displayed in the UI part based on instruction signal 304, and
updated synthesized image 303 is displayed (step S15). Note that
the setting value that was input and determined is stored as
setting value data 501 in a memory area (not shown) associated with
menu image signal generation unit 251.
[0068] Menu image signal generation unit 251 determines whether
instruction signal 304 instructing a switch between menu image 302
that occupies a large area in synthesized image 303 and menu image
302 that occupies a small area in synthesized image 303, has been
sent via operation unit 241 (step S17). This switching of menu
image 302 will be described later.
[0069] If it has been determined that instruction signal 304 for
switching menu image 302 has not been sent (NO in step S17),
processing moves to the later-described step S21, and if it has
been determined that instruction signal 304 has been sent (YES in
step S17), display switching processing is performed (step
S19).
[0070] Each time instruction signal 304 for switching has been
sent, menu image signal generation unit 251 operates so as to store
instruction signal 304. Accordingly, in the display switching
processing, it is possible to determine, based on stored
instruction signal 304, whether the occupied area of menu image 302
currently synthesized in synthesized image 303 is large or
small.
[0071] Using operation unit 241, the user performs a setting end
operation if the user desires to end the setting of the parameter
value using the UI part in displayed menu image 302, or the user
performs an operation for selecting an item in menu image 302.
Instruction signal 304 indicating the operation content is output
to menu image signal generation unit 251.
[0072] If menu image signal generation unit 251 determines that
setting is to be ended based on instruction signal 304 (YES in step
S21), menu image signal generation unit 251 reads out and outputs
setting value data 501 from the memory area. Accordingly, setting
value data 501 is transmitted to visual sensor 200 via transmission
unit 247 (step S25). CPU 226 of visual sensor 200 stores the
received setting value data 501 in memory 231 as the current value
data 500. Thereafter, in inspection processing using a captured
image obtained by imaging unit 212, processing is executed using
current value data 500 that was read out from memory 231.
[0073] If menu image signal generation unit 251 determines that an
item was selected based on instruction signal 304 (NO in step S21,
and furthermore YES in step S23), processing returns to step S9,
and subsequent processing is performed in a similar manner for the
selected item.
[0074] If menu image signal generation unit 251 determines, based
on instruction signal 304, that the end of setting has not been
instructed, and further an item has not been selected (NO in step
S21, and NO in step S23), processing returns to step S15, and
processing for inputting a setting value in the currently displayed
menu image 302 continues.
[0075] Next is a description of examples of the display image
displayed on LCD 242 in accordance with the above-described
processing procedure shown in FIG. 5, with reference to FIGS. 6 to
12. In these drawings, it is assumed that menu image 302 is
displayed synthesized with image 300, which is an enlarged image of
the surface (characters) of the workpiece 2.
[0076] FIGS. 6A and 6B show setting screens for setting a threshold
value for a good/poor determination in inspection processing. The
image 300 is displayed over the entirety of the screen of LCD 242,
and an inspection area frame 402 indicating the inspection range is
set to the entirety of image 300 by default. Also, a model area
frame 401 input by the user using operation unit 241 is displayed
as a graphic in image 300. Model area frame 401 indicates the area
of a partial image that is to serve as a reference (model) for
inspection processing.
[0077] Menu image 302 displayed in FIG. 6A is made up of UI parts
such as character string information display units 601 and 602,
common buttons 701 to 703, a determine button 704, and a cancel
button 705. The character string information display unit 601 is
always arranged at the top of the screen and displays information
such as the content of setting items and the setting screen being
displayed, setting values, and user guidance. The common buttons
701 to 703 are always arranged at the bottom of the screen and are
displayed for providing functions common to each of the menu images
302. Since the UI parts constituting menu image 302 are transparent
images, the menu can be operated while checking the image 300.
[0078] Common button 701 is an example of an icon and is operated
in order to input an instruction for switching menu image 302.
Common button 701 is displayed fixed at a predetermined position
(the bottom left of the screen in the present embodiment) in all of
the screens that are displayed by switching, and therefore the user
is not likely to lose sight of common button 701 even if the screen
is switched.
[0079] Common button 702 is operated in order to change how image
300 is displayed (e.g., enlarged or reduced). Common button 703 is
operated in order to execute screen capturing. Determine button 704
and cancel button 705 are displayed at the bottom of the screen and
are operated in order to determine/cancel setting value data 501
that was input via menu image 302. If the determine operation has
been performed, setting values that were input via menu image 302
are determined and stored as setting value data 501 in the memory
area associated with menu image signal generation unit 251, and the
setting screen is changed to a higher ranking screen. On the other
hand, if the cancel operation has been performed, setting values
that were input via menu image 302 are canceled, and the setting
screen is changed to a higher ranking screen.
[0080] In the display state of FIG. 6A, if common button 701 is
operated, the UI parts and the like of menu image 302 are hidden
except for common button 701 (see FIG. 6B). At this time, model
area frame 401 and inspection area frame 402 continue to be
displayed. If common button 701 in FIG. 6B is operated, the
original UI parts of menu image 302 are again displayed
superimposed on image 300 (see FIG. 6A).
[0081] Note that UI parts 602 to 605 in FIG. 6A are display units
for displaying threshold values (correlation values with respect to
a model and a captured image, and the type of determination)
indicated by current value data 500 for performing inspection
processing using the partial image (model) inside model area frame
401, and slide bars and text boxes for the numerical input of
threshold values that are operated via operation unit 241 for
setting the correlation value.
[0082] In the present embodiment, common button 701 is displayed in
synthesized image 303, and menu image 302 can be switched by
operating common button 701, and the same follows for all
synthesized images 303.
[0083] As described above, switching menu image 302 enables
changing the number of UI parts in menu image 302 superimposed on
image 300, that is to say, enables changing the amount of area
occupied by menu image 302 superimposed on image 300. Accordingly,
by switching to a menu image 302 that occupies less area, the user
can more easily check the entire area of image 300 and make
designations.
[0084] Also, a configuration is possible in which by
enlarging/reducing the UI parts in displayed menu image 302 by
operating common button 701, the size of the area occupied by menu
image 302 superimposed on image 300 is changed while maintaining
the same number of displayed UI parts.
[0085] Note that the operation unit for instructing switching of
menu image 302 is not limited to being common button 701 that is
displayed. An operation switch provided on the casing of display
setting unit 201 or the like may be used instead of common button
701. In this case, displaying and not displaying menu image 302
superimposed on image 300 is switched in conjunction with the
operation of that switch.
[0086] Also, a configuration is possible in which, when menu image
302 has been switched to occupy a small area, the transparency of
common button 701 is increased, or the position of common button
701 can be changed by a so-called drag-and-drop operation. Also, a
configuration is possible in which common button 701 is not
displayed, and switching to the screen in which menu image 302 is
displayed is performed by so-called double-tapping the touch panel
made up of LCD 242 and the tablet. This enables the user to check
the entire region of synthesized image 303 and to make designations
without being hindered by common button 701.
[0087] Next is a description of editing of model area frame 401
with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B. FIG. 7A shows a common button
706 that is operated in order to display various types of setting
item selection buttons for model area editing. Specific examples of
the selection buttons displayed when common button 706 has been
operated will be described later.
[0088] In the case of performing editing such as changing the size
or position of model area frame 401, editing can more easily be
performed if the entirety of image 300 is displayed. In view of
this, by cancelling the display of the UI parts of menu image 302
(note that the common button 701 remains displayed) through
operation of common button 701 (see FIG. 7B), model area frame 401
becomes easier to edit.
[0089] In this way, in the case of selecting part or the entirety
of displayed image 300 as an area for inspection processing (the
model area or the like), the entirety of image 300 can be checked
by hiding the UI parts of menu image 302 through operation of
common button 701, thus facilitating the selection of an area.
Also, since menu image 302 is displayed superimposed on image 300
in a translucent state, a portion of image 300 that is overlapped
with the UI parts of menu image 302 can also be selected as model
area frame 401.
[0090] FIGS. 8A and 8B show examples of display screens for setting
parameter values related to color extraction in image processing.
In the case of color extraction, menu image 302 displayed
superimposed on image 300 includes UI parts 606 to 611 for
selecting the color of an area to be extracted from image 300. Also
displayed is a common button 707 that is operated in order to
instruct the end of the setting of parameter values related to
color extraction.
[0091] UI part 606 shows checkboxes for selecting colors that are
to be extracted. UI part 608 indicates a color palette for color
selection. The color palette for color selection is provided with
UI parts 610 that can slide in the horizontal direction of the
screen and UI parts 611 that can slide in the vertical direction of
the screen. Sliding UI parts 610 enables setting the degree of hue,
and sliding UI parts 611 enables setting the degree of saturation.
Furthermore, operating UI parts 609 (sliders) provided on UI part
607 (slide bar) enables setting the color value.
[0092] The character string information display unit 601 displayed
at the top of the screen displays values (H: hue, S: saturation,
and V: value) that are set by sliding the UI parts described above,
and these values change in conjunction with the sliding.
[0093] If parameter values for color extraction are set via the UI
parts of menu image 302, the set values are read out by display
image control unit 244 as UI setting values 305. Image control unit
244 extracts areas including the designated colors indicated by UI
setting values 305 from image 300, and generates an image 306 in
which only the extracted color area portions remain. The generated
image 306 is sent to synthesis unit 252 in place of image 300.
[0094] Accordingly, since menu image 302 is displayed superimposed
on image 306 obtained using the parameter values set via the UI
parts, the user can set parameter values as well as check the
result of image processing performed using the set parameter
values.
[0095] At this time, by cancelling the display of the UI parts of
menu image 302 (note that the common button 701 remains displayed)
through operation of common button 701 (see FIG. 8B), the entirety
of image 306 resulting from image processing can be checked.
[0096] FIGS. 9 to 12 show other screens displayed in the adjustment
mode. Since common button 701 is displayed in these screens as
well, menu image 302 can be easily switched between occupying a
large area and occupying a small area.
[0097] FIG. 9A shows a high ranking menu image 302 in the
adjustment mode. In FIG. 9A, UI part 612 at the left end of menu
image 302 shows an item menu showing functions of display setting
unit 201. In FIG. 9A, if "Imaging" in the operation item menu has
been selected, selection buttons for "Camera adjustment", "Trigger
adjustment", and "Alignment correction", which are setting items
for imaging, are displayed on the right side of the screen in the
order in which setting needs to be performed.
[0098] FIG. 9B shows an example of a display in the case where
"Inspection" in the operation item menu of UI part 612 has been
selected, in which a list of functions used for inspection are
displayed on the right side of the screen in a menu format.
[0099] If "Camera adjustment" has been selected in the setting item
menu displayed on the right side of the screen in FIG. 9A, menu
image 302 shown in FIG. 10A is displayed. UI part 614 in FIG. 10A
is for displaying a number indicating the focus value in image 300
(in FIG. 10A, the value 85), and a corresponding bar graph. The
focus value shows the degree to which the focal point of imaging
unit 212 coincides with the imaging subject such as a workpiece,
and the focus value changes in conjunction with focus adjustment
operations performed by visual sensor 200. Note that since the
focus value correlates with the quantity of edges that appear in
the input image, the focus value can be calculated based on, for
example, color deviation included in the input image.
[0100] FIG. 10B shows an example of menu image 302 displayed if
"Alignment correction" has been selected in the subordinate
function menu shown in FIG. 9A. In FIG. 10B, character string
information display unit 601 shows whether processing for
correcting the alignment of imaging unit 212 is selected, and the
fact that it is the alignment correction setting.
[0101] If "Alignment correction setting" was selected in FIG. 10B,
menu image 302 shown in FIG. 10C is displayed. In FIG. 10C, UI part
709 for selecting the execution of teach processing for alignment
correction is displayed. In teach processing, processing for
registering model area frame 401 and inspection area frame 402 that
have been set is performed (i.e., processing for storage in a
predetermined storage area of display setting unit 201, or
processing for transmission to visual sensor 200 and storage in a
predetermined storage area).
[0102] If common button 706 in FIG. 10C is operated, a setting item
selection button 7061 is displayed as shown in FIG. 11A. Here, if
"Edit model area" is selected, menu image 302 shown in FIG. 11B is
displayed, and the model area to be used in alignment correction
processing can be set. The model area frames 401 and 405 have been
set in FIG. 11B. The position and size of the set model area is
detected and displayed in character string information display unit
601. Also, the position and size of model area frame 401 and 405 on
image 300 can be changed by operating the UI part 613.
[0103] FIG. 12 shows an example of menu image 302 displayed if
"Edge position" was selected in the function menu shown in FIG.
9B.
[0104] An image edge level is set in the screen shown in FIG. 12.
UI parts 614 and 615 for setting the level according to which edges
are to be extracted from image 300, as well as an edge graphic 403
are displayed in FIG. 12. In edge graphic 403, the edge level in
inspection area frame 402 is detected, position in image 300 is
plotted on the horizontal axis of the graph, and edge level is
plotted on the vertical axis.
[0105] Edge graphic 403 is generated by image control unit 246
performing edge detection based on the brightness component level
of each pixel in image 300. The generated edge graphic 403 is
displayed superimposed on image 300.
[0106] UI part 615 (slider) is displayed in association with edge
graphic 403. By operating the slider, the user can determine a
desired edge level threshold value while referencing edge graphic
403. Note that the detected edge position is shown by a cross mark
404.
[0107] While the slide operation is performed, the set threshold
value is numerically displayed in the numerical value input box of
UI part 614 while being sequentially updated in conjunction with
the slide operation.
[0108] In the above-described screens of FIGS. 9 to 12 as well, the
entirety of image 300 targeted for processing is displayed, and
menu image 302 including translucent UI parts is displayed
superimposed on image 300, and in such a screen, switching of the
UI parts of menu image 302 can be performed by operating common
button 701.
[0109] FIG. 13 shows an example of how visual sensor 200 is
attached. FIG. 14 shows a state in which visual sensors 200 are
respectively attached to conveying lines of belt conveyors or the
like, which are a plurality of conveying mechanisms 6 (the arrow in
the figure indicates the conveying direction), as viewed from above
the conveying lines. In FIG. 13, visual sensor 200 corresponding to
each line is attached to a support member (not shown) via
attachment unit 214 such that the imaging range of camera 222 is
aligned with the conveying line. When imaging is performed,
illumination light is irradiated on the conveying line of conveying
mechanism 6, thus providing illumination in the imaging range.
Visual sensors 200 provided for the conveying lines exchange
inspection processing result information, information for
inspection processing including the current value data 500, and the
like with each other via transmission cable 202.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0110] Although the imaging function and the image processing
function for inspection processing are provided integrally in
visual sensor 200 in the above-described embodiment, these
functions may be provided separately and independently as shown in
the present embodiment.
[0111] As shown in FIG. 15, in a visual sensor system 1 according
to another embodiment that is incorporated in an FA
production/manufacturing line or the like, workpieces 2 that are
objects to be subjected to measurement are conveyed in the arrow
direction in FIG. 15 by a conveying mechanism 6 such as a belt
conveyor, and the workpieces 2 are successively imaged by an
imaging apparatus 8 in order to perform inspection processing on
the workpieces 2. Image data obtained by imaging apparatus 8
(hereinafter, also referred to as "input images") are transmitted
to an image processing apparatus 100. Note that it is possible to
further provide an illumination mechanism that emits light onto the
workpieces 2 that are imaged by imaging apparatus 8.
[0112] A photoelectric sensor 4 made up of two parts disposed on
respective sides of conveying mechanism 6 detects the fact that a
workpiece 2 has arrived in the imaging range of the imaging
apparatus 8. Specifically, photoelectric sensor 4 includes a
photoreception unit 4a and a photoemission unit 4b disposed on the
same optical axis. The photoreception unit 4a detects the fact that
light emitted from the photoemission unit 4b is blocked by
workpiece 2, thus detecting the arrival of workpiece 2. A detection
signal (hereinafter, also referred to as a "trigger signal") from
photoelectric sensor 4 is output to a PLC 5.
[0113] PLC 5 receives the trigger signal from photoelectric sensor
4 or the like, and performs control of the conveying mechanism
6.
[0114] Visual sensor system 1 in FIG. 15 further includes image
processing apparatus 100, a display 102, and a keyboard 104. Image
processing apparatus 100 is connected to PLC 5, imaging apparatus
8, display 102, and keyboard 104.
[0115] Image processing apparatus 100 has various types of
operating modes, namely an operation mode for executing inspection
processing on the workpieces 2, and the above-described adjustment
mode. In the operation mode, image processing apparatus 100 gives
an imaging command to imaging apparatus 8 upon receiving the
trigger signal from photoelectric sensor 4 via PLC 5. In response
to the imaging command, imaging apparatus 8 transmits an input
image obtained by capturing an image of the workpiece 2 to image
processing apparatus 100. As an alternative processing method, a
configuration is possible in which imaging apparatus 8 is caused to
continuously perform imaging, and image processing apparatus 100
obtains only necessary input images in response to receiving the
trigger signal.
[0116] Imaging apparatus 8 includes, for example, an optical system
such as a lens, and an imaging element partitioned into a plurality
of pixels, such as a CCD (Charged Coupled Device) or a CMOS
(Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor. Imaging apparatus
8 is assumed to be attached such that its installation location,
which determines the imaging range, can be changed manually.
[0117] Image processing apparatus 100 is a computer having a
general-purpose architecture, and provides various types of
functions by executing a pre-installed program.
[0118] FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram showing image
processing apparatus 100 according to this other. As shown in FIG.
16, image processing apparatus 100 includes a CPU 110, which is an
arithmetic processing unit, a memory 112 and a hard disk 114, which
are storage units, a camera interface 116, an input interface 118,
a display controller 120, a PLC interface 122, a communication
interface 124, and a data reader/writer 126. These units are
connected via a bus 128 such that data can be exchanged
therebetween.
[0119] CPU 110 performs various types of computation for processing
in the operation mode and the above-described adjustment mode by
deploying programs (code) stored in hard disk 114 to memory 112 and
executing the programs in a predetermined sequence.
[0120] Camera interface 116 mediates the transmission of data
between the CPU 110 and imaging apparatus 8. More specifically,
camera interface 116 includes an image buffer 116a that can be
connected to one or more imaging apparatuses 8 and temporarily
accumulates image data from imaging apparatuses 8. When at least
one frame of input image data has been accumulated in image buffer
116a, camera interface 116 transfers the accumulated data to memory
112.
[0121] Memory 112 stores image data in units of image files. In the
case of performing processing on an input image, CPU 110 reads out
an image file from memory 112.
[0122] Camera interface 116 gives an imaging command to imaging
apparatus 8 in accordance with an internal command issued by CPU
110.
[0123] Input interface 118 mediates the transmission of data
between CPU 110 and input apparatuses such as keyboard 104, a mouse
103, and a touch panel (not shown). Specifically, input interface
118 receives an operation command given by the user operating an
input apparatus.
[0124] Display controller 120 is connected to the display 102,
which is a typical example of a display apparatus, and notifies the
user of, for example, results of image processing performed by CPU
110.
[0125] PLC interface 122 mediates the transmission of data between
CPU 110 and PLC 5. More specifically, PLC interface 122 transmits,
to CPU 110, information regarding the state of the production line
controlled by PLC 5, information regarding the workpiece, and the
like.
[0126] Communication interface 124 mediates the transmission of
data between CPU 110 and another personal computer, a server
apparatus, or the like, which are not shown. Communication
interface 124 is typically an Ethernet (registered trademark)
interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, or the like.
Note that as will be described later, as an alternative to the
embodiment in which a program stored on memory card 106 is
installed in image processing apparatus 100, an embodiment is
possible in which a program downloaded from a distribution server
(not shown) or the like via communication interface 124 is
installed in image processing apparatus 100.
[0127] Data reader/writer 126 mediates transmission of data between
CPU 110 and memory card 106, which is a storage medium.
[0128] In visual sensor system 1 shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, display
102 corresponds to LCD 242 in FIG. 2, and the above-described
functions of display setting unit 201 in the adjustment mode are
executed based on control performed by CPU 110 of image processing
apparatus 100. Accordingly, even with the configuration shown in
FIGS. 15 and 16, parameter values for inspection processing can be
set while menu image 302 is displayed superimposed on processing
target image 300 in a translucent state, and menu image 302 can be
switched by operating common button 701. This enables more easy
operation with respect to the setting of parameter values while
checking image 300.
[0129] In this way, as explained above, the embodiments provides
image processing apparatus that can display an image without
impairing visibility, even in the case of a screen having a limited
size.
[0130] The embodiments disclosed in this application are to be
considered in all respects as illustrative and not limiting. The
scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather
than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are
intended to be embraced therein.
* * * * *