Flat Field Correction (FFC) is a technique used to minimize or eliminate artifacts, thereby improving the uniformity of images. Its primary purpose is to ensure consistent image quality regardless of exposure conditions.

Components of FFC

There are two main components to flat field correction:

  1. Local FFC: This involves calibration performed by the camera manufacturer to compensate for sensor imperfections.
  2. Global FFC: These calibrations are conducted in the field to address issues related to image acquisition setups, such as non-uniform lighting sources or optical variations.

Local Flat Field Correction

Local flat field correction can be applied either as a general offset across the entire image or on a per-pixel basis for improved accuracy. For example, the Adimec QUARTZ series incorporates several corrections, including pixel-based FFC while maintaining high resolutions like 4 Megapixels at up to 180 fps. Since this correction is performed internally within the camera, it uses 12-bit image processing instead of 10 bits for greater precision.

Global Flat Field Correction

Some machine vision cameras include algorithms that enable in-field flat field correction by storing multiple calibration setups. This allows the camera to instantly switch between different lighting-optics configurations during operation, such as changing optical filters or other setups.

In a recent upgrade to the QUARTZ series, Adimec increased the number of stored flat field correction sets from fewer than 40 to support higher resolutions like 4 Megapixels. This feature is particularly beneficial when lenses or lighting conditions are frequently changed during measurements.

Additional Upgrades in the QUARTZ Series

Other notable improvements include:

  • Enhanced Frame-to-Frame Stability: A factor of 2.5 improvement, addressing variations in image sensors.
  • More Flat Field Correction Sets: Supporting True Accurate Imaging® for better performance.
  • Reduced Power Consumption: Approximately 2.5W less power usage while maintaining stable camera operation.
  • Improved CoaXPress Interface Implementation: More efficient dual interface support.
  • Higher Resolution Support: Compatibility with image sensors up to 8 Megapixels and beyond.
  • Increased Customization Flexibility: Greater options for tailored solutions.

Addressing Increasing Sensor Demands

As image sensor resolutions rise, leading to higher data rates and more complex blemish corrections, Adimec continues to enhance its camera platforms. This ensures customers receive high-performance cameras that align with their evolving needs.

Upcoming Exhibition at Vision International Trade Fair

The upgraded QUARTZ series will be showcased at the Machine Vision Expo in Stuttgart, Germany from November 6-8, 2012 (Booth 1G68). The Q-12A65 model—a 12 Megapixel camera operating at 66 fps via Camera Link—will demonstrate Adimec’s latest advancements using CMOSIS’s CMV12000 sensor.

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Last Updated: 2025-09-04 19:14:12