Machine Vision Lighting Selection Guide
Start lighting selection from the inspection problem, not from a product list. The right light depends on what must become visible, what must disappear, how the material reflects, and whether the imaging setup can hold geometry and exposure stable in production.
Step 1: Define the feature
- Scratch, dent, edge, hole, print, contamination, seal, or presence check
- Minimum feature size or acceptable defect limit
- Good and bad sample examples
Step 2: Choose geometry
- Ring for compact front lighting
- Bar for directional shadows
- Dome for diffuse reflection control
- Backlight for silhouette
- Coaxial for flat reflective targets
Step 3: Validate conditions
- Working distance and field of view
- Camera exposure and line speed
- Wavelength and filter response
- Mounting and environmental limits