Understanding color machine vision
From simple sorting to complex analysis of print, color vision systems can provide production verification if the proper controls are built into the system.
Many color-verification systems match the color contained within images to a predefined color. Determining the extent of color control needed in the system depends upon the application and how the tools are applied. If a part simply needs to be verified as red and the system need not analyze the exact color composition, strict controls may not be needed. However, if a machine-vision system needs to ascertain that the red exactly matches a defined pantone color, the system may benefit from white-balancing and color calibration. Special attention should also be given to control even minor color shifts that are the result of aging lights, temperature, and ambient lighting conditions.