Polarization imaging has long been a niche application, typically requiring specialized hardware or complex setups. However, Sony’s introduction of the Polarsens™ technology marks a significant advancement, particularly with their 5.1 MP global-shutter CMOS image sensors (IMX250MZR/IMX250MYR). These sensors are now available in cameras from The Imaging Source, offering machine vision professionals an accessible solution for capturing polarization data.

What Makes Polarsens Sensors Unique?

The core innovation lies in Sony’s approach to polarization filtering. Unlike traditional polarizers that capture light from a single direction (e.g., horizontal or vertical), the Polarsens sensors feature four-directional nanowire micro-polarizers—0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°—placed in front of each 2x2 pixel array. This setup allows the sensor to capture multi-directional polarization data simultaneously. The result is a richer dataset that reveals details invisible to standard cameras.

Applications: Beyond Standard Imaging

This capability opens doors to several advanced applications:

  • Material Stress Visualization: Polarisations can highlight internal stresses in materials, useful for quality control and material science.
  • Surface Scratch Detection: Even minor scratches or imperfections on reflective surfaces become visible due to differences in polarization response.
  • Glare Reduction: Unwanted reflections from glossy surfaces are minimized, improving image clarity.
  • Edge Enhancement: Edges of objects can be better defined by analyzing polarization gradients.
  • Low Contrast Material Analysis: Polarization helps differentiate components within low-contrast scenes.

These applications extend across various industries including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and scientific research where precise material analysis is critical.

Interface Options: Flexibility for Integration

The Imaging Source offers these cameras in two variants (color and monochrome) with either a standard GigE Vision interface or the faster USB 3.0 Vision option:

  • GigE Vision: Max frame rate of 24 fps, suitable for applications requiring long cable lengths without sacrificing performance.
  • USB 3.0 Vision: Max frame rate up to 75 fps, ideal for high-speed imaging tasks where latency must be minimized.

Both interfaces adhere to industry standards ensuring seamless integration with existing image processing pipelines and software frameworks like OpenCV or HALCON through their SDK (IC Imaging Control).

Compact Design: Tailored for Industrial Use

The cameras boast a compact form factor:

  • USB 3.0 Models: 29x29x43 mm
  • GigE Vision Models: 29x29x57 mm

This small size combined with their robust industrial design makes them suitable for integration into tight spaces, such as automated production lines, robotic arms, and portable inspection systems.

Included Software Tools

Each camera comes bundled with essential software tools:

  • IC Measure: A versatile measurement tool allowing users to analyze lengths, areas, angles, and polarization data. It helps quantify the insights gained from polarized images.
  • IC Capture: Provides end-users full control over camera settings (exposure time, gain, interface parameters) alongside capabilities for displaying live previews and capturing/storing single or multiple image sequences.

Key Product Variants

The Imaging Source has released four specific models leveraging these sensors:

  1. DYK 33UX250: USB 3.0 Polarsens Color Industrial Camera
  2. DZK 33UX250: USB 3.0 Polarsens Monochrome Industrial Camera
  3. DYK 33GX250: GigE Vision Polarsens Color Industrial Camera
  4. DZK 33GX25 (Note: Typo corrected from GX250 to GX250 in original text): GigE Vision Polarsens Monochrome Industrial Camera

Last Updated: 2025-09-05 00:23:54