A machine vision system with hardware capabilities of image processing is developed in this project and applied in two automatic processes including the detection procedure of a compact disk for CD/DVD duplicators and the pattern recognition algorithm of the disk's orientation for CD/DVD label printers. Several image processing algorithms are designed for the developed vision system, namely, image quality determination, image selection, pixel value thresholding, edge detection, and image segmentation. All of these mathematical algorithms are programmed and implemented in a micro-chip using the SOPC tool. Furthermore, the machine vision system is utilized in the processes of compact disk detection and orientation recognition. In the detection process, the inspection algorithm is based on the two-value image provided by the machine vision system; while in the recognition process, the image pixel is projected to polar coordinate and a pattern associated with the disk orientation is constructed and recognized. The machine vision system will be applied to the cooperative company's mainstream products, CD/DVD duplicators, on detecting the compact disk. In the near future, an attempt will be made to utilize this vision system on CD/DVD label printers. Meanwhile, the integrated system has the potential usage on many low price automation products.
