A microcontroller based intelligent instrumentation system for automatic scanning of CCD camera vision system

Charge coupled device (CCD) camera based vision system can be used efficiently for automatic measurement of area, volume and other dimensional parameters of 3D objects. Object focusing and high speed scanning are important operations needed for image capture. Maximum of six views are needed for any complexity of the object which leads to movement of camera to the required six positions. The paper presents an 8031 microcontroller based intelligent instrumentation system for automatic movement, focusing, and scanning of CCD camera. Measurement resolution is enhanced by capturing the image at microlevel near the object boundaries. Scan speed is selected such that the camera is exposed to an object for sufficient time. Camera movement in horizontal and vertical direction is done by movable electromechanical arm. Object range detection is done using ultrasonic range sensor interfaced with the microcomputer. The microcontroller receives exact coordinates from the computer and transfers to the interface unit which in turn drives the DC servo motors to orient the arm.<>