A computer implemented software device for estimating background tilt and offset is disclosed to preferably be adaptable to an optical measurement instrument wherein the estimated parameters are resolved to generate a reference plane to be subtracted from a height map of a phase profile. A set of histograms of heights is used to develop a merit function. A two-dimensional high speed iterative search is used to optimize the merit function to generate a reference plane coincident with the spatial tilt of the phase profile. The invention enables real-time measurement of substrate height for preferred use in high-speed image processing operations relating to circuit-board production lines.
Characters or image portions are extracted from a background whose color is similar to that of the characters or the image portions. In order to chromatically isolate the characters and the image portions, a threshold value used for binarization is adjusted as the binarization is repeated as necessary or for a predetermined number of times. The adjusted threshold value allows the chromatic isolation of similar colors.
A method for setting at least one selected parameter of a processing tool. The processing tool is utilized for processing articles in a production line. Initially, the selected parameter is set to an initial value and one such article is positioned for processing. The article is sequentially processed by the processing tool a certain number of times and corresponding processed data are obtained. The processed data are analyzed so as to determine whether or not the processed data satisfy predetermined result criteria. Upon detecting that the processed data do not satisfy the result criteria, the selected parameter is changed to a tuned value and the processing, obtaining the processed data and analyzing thereof, are repeated as many times as required until the result criteria is satisfied.
An automated system includes improved height sensing. In one aspect, a on-head camera performs the dual functions of fiducial imaging and height sensing using an auxiliary off-axis light source and triangulation. In another aspect, an on-head height sensor is positioned to measure height at a location that is not beneath any nozzles. The sensor provides height information at a plurality of locations over the board, and a height map of the board is created. In yet another aspect of the invention, the above features are combined to provide an on-head camera that images fiducials and measures height at a plurality of locations such that a height map is created.
