The IMX487 is particularly valuable in machine vision applications where distinguishing materials and detecting defects are critical. This article delves into the technical specifications, features, and diverse applications of the IMX487 sensor, illustrating its significance in modern industrial inspection processes.

Understanding Ultraviolet Light and Its Industrial Relevance

UV light occupies a wavelength range of 10 to 400 nanometers (nm), which is shorter than the visible light spectrum (400 to 780 nm). Within the UV spectrum, our  8.1MP UV Camera with IMX487 sensor operates effectively in the 200-400 nm range, making it ideal for various industrial inspections. UV imaging enables the identification of materials and detection of defects that are invisible under standard lighting conditions. This capability is crucial in industries where precise material identification and quality control are paramount.

Key Features of the IMX487 UV Image Sensor

1. High Resolution and Speed: The IMX487 sensor incorporates Sony's Pregius S™ technology, featuring a global shutter and back-illuminated pixel structure. This design ensures the capture of crisp, undistorted images of fast-moving objects. The MER3-810-36G3M-P-UV supports a high frame rate of up to 36 frames per second, making it suitable for high-speed applications such as sorting plastic materials in recycling plants. The high-speed capability also opens new possibilities in areas requiring rapid image capture and analysis.
2. High Sensitivity and Low Noise: The IMX487 is constructed with materials that possess high UV transmittance, including quartz glass and specialized on-chip lenses. This design minimizes noise and enhances sensitivity, ensuring clear and accurate UV imaging. The sensor's light-receiving component is engineered to reduce noise while maintaining high sensitivity, making it ideal for applications where image clarity is crucial.

Applications of UV Imaging with the IMX487 Sensor

The unique properties of UV light and the advanced features of the IMX487 sensor make it suitable for a wide range of industrial and scientific applications. Here are some key applications where UV imaging with the IMX487 sensor excels:

1. Detection of Fine Scratches and Defects

UV light's high scattering property allows for the easy detection of microscopic scratches and defects on various materials. For example, scratches on metal plates, which are difficult to see with the naked eye, become visible under UV light. This capability is particularly valuable in quality control processes where identifying minute defects is essential.

In the manufacturing industry, detecting fine scratches on metal plates is crucial for ensuring product quality. Traditional inspection methods may miss these tiny defects, leading to quality issues down the line. The IMX487 sensor, with its high scattering property, can efficiently identify these scratches, improving the overall quality control process.

2. High Optical Resolution for Microscopic Observation

Due to the shorter wavelengths of UV light, the IMX487 sensor achieves higher optical resolution compared to visible light imaging. This feature allows for the observation of very small objects and defects, which is particularly useful in semiconductor inspection and quality control of battery films.

In semiconductor manufacturing, inspecting intricate patterns and detecting minute defects is critical. The IMX487 sensor's high optical resolution enables precise observation of these patterns, ensuring that even the smallest defects are identified and addressed promptly. This capability is essential for maintaining the integrity and performance of semiconductor devices.

3. Leveraging Material Transmittance Variance

Different materials exhibit varying levels of UV transmittance. For instance, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) transmit over 70% of UV at 365 nm, while polycarbonate (PC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) transmit almost none. This variance can be utilized to sort and identify different types of transparent materials that appear identical under visible light.

Sorting transparent materials such as plastics can be challenging under visible light, as they often look identical. The IMX487 sensor, with its ability to distinguish materials based on their UV transmittance, can accurately sort different types of plastics. This capability is particularly useful in recycling plants, where efficient material sorting is essential for the recycling process.

Comparison of UV imaging with transparent plates of different materials: 1-PET, 2-PPMA, 3-PC, 4-PVC.

4. Inspection of Transparent Materials Without Background Interference

UV imaging can remove background interference when observing transparent materials, allowing for a clearer view of surface conditions. This is beneficial in applications such as inspecting automobile window glass for scratches.

In the automotive industry, inspecting the quality of window glass is critical for safety and aesthetics. Traditional inspection methods may struggle with background interference, making it difficult to identify defects. The IMX487 sensor's UV imaging capability eliminates this interference, providing a clear view of the glass surface and enabling precise defect detection.

5. Quality Inspection of Transparent Coatings

UV cameras can detect uneven resin coatings on electronic devices, as resin appears black under UV light, making defects easily visible. This capability is crucial for ensuring the quality and consistency of coatings on electronic components.

Electronic devices often require protective coatings to enhance durability and performance. Ensuring that these coatings are applied evenly is essential for maintaining product quality. The IMX487 sensor can detect any inconsistencies in the coating application, allowing manufacturers to address defects before the devices reach the market.

6. Biological Applications: Observing Plants, Animals, and Human Bodies

UV absorption rates vary among different organisms and can be used in agricultural and medical fields. For example, latent skin discolorations can be detected with UV cameras, aiding in cosmetic and medical research.

In agriculture, understanding how different plants absorb UV light can provide valuable insights into their health and growth patterns. The IMX487 sensor can be used to study these absorption rates, helping researchers develop better agricultural practices and improve crop yields.

UV imaging can reveal hidden skin discolorations and other conditions not visible under standard lighting. This capability is valuable in the cosmetic industry for analyzing skin conditions and developing treatments. Additionally, medical professionals can use UV imaging to diagnose and monitor various skin conditions.

7. Flame and Electrical Discharge Detection

UV cameras can identify UV radiation emitted from flames and electrical discharges, useful for monitoring power infrastructure and detecting faults in railway power grids. This application is crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure.

Monitoring the condition of power grids and infrastructure is essential for preventing failures and ensuring continuous service. The IMX487 sensor can detect UV emissions from electrical discharges, identifying potential issues before they lead to significant problems. This capability enhances the efficiency of maintenance processes and reduces the risk of outages.

Detailed Specifications of the MER3-810-36G3M-P-UV with IMX487

The MER3-810-36G3M-P-UV  with IMX487 sensor boasts impressive technical specifications that make it a versatile and powerful tool for UV imaging:

- Effective Pixels: 2856 (H) × 2848 (V), approximately 8.1 megapixels
- Pixel Size: 2.74μm (H) × 2.74μm (V)
- Frame Rate: Up to 36 fps
- Shutter Mode: Global shutter
- Interface: GigE
- Dimensions: 29x29x50.6mm

Implementing the IMX487 in Industrial Applications

To fully leverage the capabilities of the IMX487 sensor, it is essential to follow specific steps in the implementation process:

1. Groundwork: Conduct thorough research to determine if the target object has meaningful reflectance and absorptance properties in the UV spectrum. This step is crucial for ensuring that the imaging process will yield useful results.
2. Setting Up the Apparatus: Prepare the necessary equipment, including a UV light source and UV-compatible lenses. UV LEDs or a combination of xenon lamps and bandpass filters can be used to generate the required UV radiation.
3. Shooting: Position the target object and cast UV light onto it for test shooting. Adjust the setup as needed to optimize image quality and ensure accurate data capture.

Conclusion

Sony's IMX487 UV image sensor is a groundbreaking tool that brings significant advancements to industrial inspections and various other applications. Its high resolution, speed, and sensitivity, combined with its ability to capture the UV spectrum, open new possibilities for material sorting, defect detection, biological research, and quality control. The detailed specifications and diverse applications discussed in this article highlight the sensor's versatility and potential impact on multiple industries. For more information about the IMX487 sensor and to explore its capabilities further, you can visit the dedicated Sony UV sensor technology webpage here.

By understanding and leveraging the unique properties of UV light and the advanced features of the IMX487 sensor, industries can achieve more precise and efficient inspection processes, ultimately leading to improved product quality and operational efficiency.

You can download MER3-810-36G3M-P-UV datasheet on our Download page.

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