JP2011193209A - Imaging apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured due to variations in a housing shape or a shooting direction while maintaining dustproof and waterproof properties of the housing.
An imaging apparatus includes a housing, a camera assembly disposed in the housing, and an internal chassis that is disposed in the housing and supports the camera assembly. The housing 101 includes an opening 101X that exposes a part of the camera assembly 130 on either the upper surface or the side surface. Between the internal chassis 170 and the camera assembly 130, the camera assembly 130 is supported toward the upper surface of the housing in accordance with the position where the opening 101X of the housing 101 is provided, and the camera assembly 130. A camera support structure capable of selecting a state in which the camera is supported toward the side surface of the housing 101 is provided.
[Selection] Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus, and more particularly to an imaging apparatus for irradiating light onto an inspection object and acquiring an image based on reflected light from the inspection object.

  Conventionally, various image processing techniques have been used in the FA (Factory Automation) field and the like. For example, a visual sensor device disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0103755 (Patent Document 1) targets a wide range of objects such as a small object such as an electronic component to a large object such as an automobile. It is an inspection device. In such a visual sensor, for example, image recognition processing is performed on image data obtained by capturing an image of the object, whereby the object is determined to be non-defective / defective.

US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0103755

  The visual sensor disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing, and when a substantially rectangular side surface provided with an imaging window is a front surface and the opposite side is a rear surface, the front surface and the rear surface are separated. It has a structure in which the housing is separated into two so as to be separated. For this reason, when the casing is separated, the opening of the casing becomes large, and it becomes easy to incorporate the components therein. On the other hand, the length of the casing joint is increased, so that the sealing performance of the casing is improved. Is difficult.

  Moreover, the visual sensor is often attached to an existing assembly line or the like. Depending on surrounding devices, the mounting space and mounting direction of the visual sensor may be limited. Therefore, it is preferable that the shape of the casing of the visual sensor or the shooting direction in the casing can be selected. However, an increase in variation in the shape of the housing or the shooting direction causes an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured, resulting in an increase in manufacturing cost.

  The present invention has been made to solve these problems, and its purpose is to maintain the dustproof / waterproofness of the housing while maintaining the number of parts to be manufactured according to variations in the housing shape or shooting direction. It is to suppress the increase of.

  An imaging apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a housing, a camera assembly disposed in the housing, and an internal chassis disposed in the housing and supporting the camera assembly. The housing includes an opening that exposes a part of the camera assembly on either the upper surface or the side surface. Between the internal chassis and the camera assembly, the camera assembly is supported on the upper surface of the housing in accordance with the position where the opening of the housing is provided, and the camera assembly is mounted on the side surface of the housing. A camera support structure capable of selecting a state of supporting the camera is provided.

  Preferably, the camera support structure is provided on an engagement protrusion provided on one of the side surface of the camera assembly or the internal chassis, and on the other side of the side surface of the camera assembly or the internal chassis. And an engagement support portion to be engaged. The engagement protrusions and the engagement support portions are provided in any state of supporting the camera assembly toward the upper surface of the housing and supporting the camera assembly toward the side surface of the housing. Used.

  Preferably, the engaging protrusion includes two first protrusions formed on the first side surface of the camera assembly, and two second protrusions formed on the second side surface parallel to the first side surface. Has protrusions. The engagement support portion has a first support wall and a second support wall parallel to the first support wall. The first support wall has two first cutout portions formed at the upper end of the first support wall. The second support wall has two second cutout portions formed at the upper end of the second support wall. Each of the two first protrusions engages with the two first notches. Each of the two second protrusions engages with the two second notches.

  Preferably, an angle formed between a direction in which a straight line connecting the two first protrusions extends and a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees. The angle formed by the direction in which the straight line connecting the two second protrusions extends and the direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees. The angle formed between the direction in which the straight line connecting the two first cutouts extends and the direction perpendicular to the top surface of the housing is 45 degrees. The angle between the direction in which the straight line connecting the two first cutouts extends and the direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees. The two first protrusions engage with the two first cutout portions, respectively, and the two second protrusions engage with the two second cutout portions, respectively. The solid is supported toward the side of the housing. The two first protrusions are respectively engaged with the two second cutout portions, and the two second protrusions are respectively engaged with the two first cutout portions, whereby the camera Is supported toward the upper surface of the housing.

  Preferably, the engaging protrusion includes two first protrusions formed on the first side surface of the camera assembly, and two second protrusions formed on the second side surface parallel to the first side surface. Has protrusions. The engagement support portion has a first support wall and a second support wall parallel to the first support wall. The first support wall has a first hole formed at the upper end of the first support wall. The second support wall has a second hole formed at the upper end of the second support wall. One of the two first protrusions engages with the first hole, and one of the two second protrusions engages with the second hole, so that the camera assembly faces the side of the housing. Supported. The other of the two first protrusions is engaged with the second hole, and the other of the two second protrusions is engaged with the first hole, so that the camera assembly is attached to the housing. It is supported toward the upper surface.

Preferably, the housing is a rectangular parallelepiped having a major axis in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface.
Preferably, the camera assembly can be fixed to the housing and temporarily held by the internal chassis when the imaging device is assembled.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured while increasing variations in the housing shape or the photographing direction.

It is the schematic which shows the whole structure of the visual sensor system containing the image processing apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an image processing apparatus and a display apparatus. It is a perspective view inside an image processing apparatus. It is a disassembled perspective view of the periphery of the imaging unit of the image processing apparatus. It is a perspective view of the adjustment mechanism of an imaging part. FIG. 4 is a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view showing a structure for mounting an imaging unit to the internal chassis according to the side view type image processing apparatus according to Embodiment 1; It is the front perspective view and back perspective view which show the attachment structure to the internal chassis of the imaging part which concerns on a side view type image processing apparatus. FIG. 4 is a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view showing a structure for attaching an internal chassis to a side view housing according to a side view type image processing apparatus. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view and a rear perspective view showing a structure for attaching an internal chassis to a side view housing according to a side view type image processing apparatus. FIG. 4 is a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view showing a structure for mounting an imaging unit to an internal chassis according to a front view type image processing apparatus. It is the front perspective view and back perspective view which show the attachment structure to the internal chassis of the imaging part which concerns on a front view type image processing apparatus. FIG. 4 is a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view showing a structure for attaching an internal chassis to a front view housing according to a front view type image processing apparatus. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view and a rear perspective view showing a structure for attaching an internal chassis to a front view housing according to a front view type image processing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the manufacturing method of an image processing apparatus. FIG. 6 is a front perspective view showing a structure for attaching an imaging unit to an internal chassis according to a side view type image processing apparatus according to Embodiment 2; FIG. 6 is a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view showing a structure for mounting an imaging unit to an internal chassis according to a side view type image processing apparatus according to Embodiment 2;

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
<A. System configuration>
In the following, an image processing apparatus including a controller unit for processing an image will be described as an example of an imaging apparatus. However, the imaging apparatus is not limited to an image processing apparatus including a controller unit as will be described later. Further, the imaging device is not limited to that used in a visual sensor system as will be described later.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a visual sensor system 1 including an image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. Below, the image processing apparatus 100 of the type (side view type) which can image | photograph the side of the housing | casing 101 is demonstrated first. However, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment has a type (side view type shown in FIGS. 6 to 9) capable of photographing the side of the casing 101 and a casing 101 as described later. And a type capable of photographing the upper side (front view type shown in FIGS. 10 to 13).

  Referring to FIG. 1, in visual sensor system 1 according to the present embodiment, image processing device 100 and display device 200 can be connected by a LAN (Local Area Network) cable 301. More specifically, one end of the LAN cable 301 can be attached to the image processing apparatus 100 via the connector 311. The other end of the LAN cable 301 can be attached to the display device 200 via a connector 312.

  A plurality of image processing apparatuses 100 may be connected to one display apparatus 200 via the LAN cable 301 and a hub (not shown). Then, the user can control the plurality of image processing apparatuses 100 via the display device 200. The display device 200 can display the image processing results from the plurality of image processing devices 100.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 100 and a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) 400 can be connected by an IO cable 302. More specifically, one end of the IO cable 302 can be attached to the image processing apparatus 100 via the connector 313. The other end of the IO cable 302 is connected to the PLC 400. The PLC 400 can control the entire visual sensor system 1 by receiving a signal from another device or transmitting a signal to the other device. The image processing apparatus 100 and the PLC 400 may be connected via a LAN cable 301 and a hub (not shown).

  In addition, power is supplied to the image processing apparatus 100 from an external power source via the IO cable 302.

  The visual sensor system 1 is incorporated into a production line, for example. The visual sensor system 1 performs processing (hereinafter, also referred to as “measurement processing”) such as character recognition and scratch inspection based on an image obtained by imaging an inspection target (“work 500” in FIG. 2). Execute.

  As an example, in the present embodiment, the workpiece 500 is transported in a predetermined direction by a transport mechanism such as a belt conveyor (not shown). The image processing apparatus 100 is disposed at a fixed position with respect to the conveyance path. The image processing apparatus 100 images the conveyed workpiece 500 a plurality of times. A plurality of image data obtained by the image processing apparatus 100 is transmitted to the display apparatus 200.

  In this specification, “imaging” basically means that the imaging unit 130 of the image processing apparatus 100 receives light from a subject in the field of view and displays an image (image signal or image data) indicating the light. Means output processing. However, when the imaging unit 130 repeatedly generates an image showing the subject in the field of view at a predetermined cycle, it means a process of storing a specific image among the images generated by the imaging unit 130 in the storage unit. . In other words, from a certain point of view, “imaging” means that the imaging unit 130 acquires an image showing the contents of the subject in the field of view and puts it into a state where measurement processing is possible at a certain intended timing.

  The arrival of the workpiece 500 within the field of view of the imaging unit 130 is detected by detection sensors (not shown) arranged at both ends of the transport mechanism. A signal from the detection sensor (hereinafter also referred to as “trigger signal”) is transmitted to the PLC 400. The PLC 400 causes the image processing apparatus 100 to perform the imaging process of the workpiece 500 based on the trigger signal.

<B. Configurations of Image Processing Device 100 and Display Device 200>
Next, configurations of the image processing apparatus 100 and the display apparatus 200 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating configurations of the image processing apparatus 100 and the display apparatus 200.

  With reference to FIG. 2, first, the configuration of the image processing apparatus 100 will be described. The image processing apparatus 100 includes an illumination unit 110, a controller unit 120, and an imaging unit 130 as a camera assembly.

  The illumination unit 110 is for irradiating the work 500 with light. That is, the illumination unit 110 is for irradiating light to the imaging range of the imaging unit 130. The illumination unit 110 includes a plurality of illumination control units 111 provided on an illumination board 114 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) described later. In the present embodiment, eight illumination control units 111 are arranged on the illumination board 114. Each of the illumination control units 111 includes an illumination lens 112 and an LED 113. For example, the illumination control unit 111 emits light based on a command from the controller unit 120.

  The controller unit 120 is for controlling the image processing apparatus 100. That is, the controller unit 120 controls the illumination unit 110 and the imaging unit 130. The controller unit 120 performs image processing based on the image signal from the imaging unit 130. The controller unit 120 transmits / receives data to / from the outside of the image processing apparatus 100. For example, the controller unit 120 receives a command from the PLC 400 via the LAN cable 301 and transmits image data after image processing (still image data, moving image data, etc.) to the display device 200.

  More specifically, the controller unit 120 includes a sensor control unit 121, a sensor data receiving unit 122, an indicator light control unit 123, a measurement processing unit 124, an input / output control unit 125, an external device communication unit 126, An input / output unit 127 and a power supply unit 129 are included.

  The sensor control unit 121 controls them by sending commands to the plurality of illumination control units 111 of the illumination unit 110, the imaging element 132 of the imaging unit 130, and the indicator lamp control unit 123 of the controller unit 120. The sensor control unit 121 may perform the above control based on the signal from the measurement processing unit 124.

  The sensor data receiving unit 122 receives a signal (image signal) from the image sensor 132 and transmits the image signal to the measurement processing unit 124.

  The indicator light control unit 123 receives an optical signal from the sensor control unit 121 and turns on or off an indicator lamp (not shown).

  The measurement processing unit 124 performs image processing based on the image signal from the sensor data receiving unit 122. The measurement processing unit 124 sends the image data after the image processing to the input / output control unit 125. The measurement processing unit 124 receives a command from the display device 200 or the like via the input / output control unit 125. The measurement processing unit 124 transmits a command from the input / output control unit 125 to the sensor control unit 121.

  The input / output control unit 125 transmits / receives data to / from the display device 200 via the external device communication unit 126 and the LAN cable 301. Conversely, a command from the display device 200 is accepted. The input / output control unit 125 transmits / receives data to / from another external device such as a printer or a wireless device via the other input / output unit 127.

  Each unit constituting the controller unit 120 as described above is realized by a member arranged on a control board (not shown).

  The controller unit 120 (or control board) includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 150 that is an arithmetic processing unit, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory as a storage unit (memory 149), various interfaces, a data reader / writer, Is placed. These units are connected to each other via a bus so that data communication is possible. The CPU 150 expands programs (codes) stored in the nonvolatile memory in the volatile memory and executes them in a predetermined order. Thus, CPU150 implement | achieves each above-mentioned unit by performing various calculations.

  The volatile memory is typically a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like. In addition to the program read from the nonvolatile memory, the volatile memory holds image data acquired by the imaging unit 130, data indicating the processing result of the image data, work data, and the like.

  Further, the nonvolatile memory can be a magnetic storage device. In addition to the program executed by the CPU 150, the non-volatile memory stores image data (hereinafter also referred to as “model image”) that serves as a reference in pattern search. Furthermore, various setting values and the like may be stored in the nonvolatile memory.

  As described above, the sensor control unit 121, the sensor data receiving unit 122, the indicator light control unit 123, the measurement processing unit 124, the input / output control unit 125, the external device communication unit 126, and the input / output of the controller unit 120 are provided. All or part of the unit 127 may be a functional block realized by the CPU 150 executing a program. However, all or a part of the functional blocks may be realized by hardware.

  In other words, the controller unit 120 is a computer for providing various functions to be described later by executing a program installed in advance. The controller unit 120 may be installed with an OS (Operating System) for providing basic functions of the computer in addition to the application for providing the functions according to the present embodiment.

  In this case, the program according to the present embodiment may be a program module that is provided as a part of the OS and calls a necessary module at a predetermined timing in a predetermined arrangement to execute processing. Good. That is, the program itself according to the present embodiment does not include the module as described above, and the process is executed in cooperation with the OS. The program according to the present embodiment may be a form that does not include some of such modules. Furthermore, the program according to the present embodiment may be provided by being incorporated in a part of another application program.

  A part or all of the functions provided by executing the program, that is, any or all of the function blocks may be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit.

  The imaging unit 130 receives reflected light of the light irradiated by the illumination unit 110 and outputs an image signal. As an example, the imaging unit 130 includes an imaging element 132 that is partitioned into a plurality of pixels, such as a CCD (Coupled Charged Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, in addition to an optical system such as the imaging lens 131.

  Next, the configuration of the display device 200 will be described. The display device 200 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 201, an LCD control unit 202, a display image control unit 203, an image control unit 204, an image storage unit 205, a fieldbus control unit 206, a communication unit 207, 208, 209, an operation unit 210, and a power supply unit 211. Note that the communication units 207, 208, and 209 support communication using Ethernet (registered trademark).

  The LCD 201 displays an image from the image processing apparatus 100 based on a signal from the LCD control unit 202. The LCD control unit 202 controls display processing of the LCD 201 based on a command from the display image control unit 203.

  The operation unit 210 is realized by a switch provided outside the housing of the display device 200, a tablet (not shown) that covers the surface of the LCD 201, and the like. The LCD 201 and the tablet constitute a touch panel. The user inputs a command to the display device 200 via a switch or a touch panel.

  The display image control unit 203 sends a display command to the LCD control unit 202 based on a command from the operation unit 210 or based on an image from the image control unit 204. The display image control unit 203 exchanges data with the image control unit 204 via the communication units 208 and 209 or directly. For example, the display image control unit 203 causes the LCD 201 to display an image from the image control unit 204.

  The image control unit 204 stores the image received from the image processing apparatus 100 in the image storage unit 205. The image control unit 204 transmits the image stored in the image storage unit 205 to the display image control unit 203.

  The fieldbus control unit 206 passes the image received from the image processing apparatus 100 via the communication unit 207 to the image control unit 204. Conversely, a command for the image processing apparatus 100 input via the operation unit 210 is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 100 via the communication unit 207.

<C. Hardware configuration of image processing apparatus 100>
Next, the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the inside of the image processing apparatus 100. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view around the imaging unit 130 of the image processing apparatus 100. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the adjustment mechanism of the imaging unit 130.

  With reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, the upper surface and the bottom surface of the housing 101 are substantially square with sides of about 40 mm. The height of the housing 101 is about 80 mm. The housing according to the present embodiment is a substantially regular quadrangular prism.

  A substantially square opening 101 </ b> X is formed on the upper side surface of the housing 101. A substantially square opening 101 </ b> Y is formed on the bottom surface of the housing 101. Hereinafter, the side surface on which the opening 101X is formed is also referred to as a front surface. A side surface of the housing 101 opposite to the front surface is also referred to as a rear surface. Further, when viewed from the inside of the casing 101, the front side is referred to as the front, the rear side is referred to as the rear, the upper surface side is referred to as the upper side, and the bottom surface side is referred to as the lower side.

  Further, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the front direction is the plus direction, and the rear direction is the minus direction. The vertical direction is the Y-axis direction, the upward direction is the positive direction, and the downward direction is the negative direction. A direction perpendicular to the surface stretched by the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is referred to as a Z-axis direction. When the plus direction is viewed from the minus direction of the X axis, the right direction is referred to as “right direction”, and the left direction is referred to as “left direction”.

  In the image processing apparatus 100, the illumination unit 110 is disposed in the front upper part inside the housing 101, the imaging unit 130 is disposed in the rear upper part, and the controller unit 120 is disposed in the lower part.

  In addition to the imaging lens 131 and the imaging element 132 described above, the imaging unit 130 includes a lens holder 134, a lens guide 161, a lens slider 162, an adjustment screw 163, an O-ring 164, a hexagon nut 165, and an imaging element. An imaging substrate 133 on which 132 is mounted is included as a main configuration.

  The window member 118 includes a window frame and a transparent protective plate that transmits light incident on the imaging unit 130. The window member 118 is attached to the window of the housing 101. The transparent protective plate is fitted inside the window frame. The transparent protective plate is made of, for example, an acrylic plate, but is not limited to this, and may be made of other materials, for example, tempered glass, as long as the transparent protective plate is transparent and can be used for industrial purposes.

  The window member 118 is attached to the opening 101X of the housing 101 by an adhesive sheet 119 so as to close the opening 101X on the front surface of the housing 101. This adhesive sheet 119 forms a waterproof structure for waterproofing and dustproofing between the opening 101X of the housing 101 and the window member 118. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the waterproof structure is another structure, for example, a packing member such as rubber is sandwiched between the window member 118 and the housing 101, and the window member 118 and the housing 101 are fastened with screws. Such a structure may be used.

  The illumination unit 110 is disposed behind the window member 118. The illumination unit 1110 is attached to the housing 101 with screws with the heat dissipation sheet 117 interposed therebetween. By sandwiching the heat dissipating sheet 117, heat generated by the LEDs 113 of the illumination unit 110 is easily transmitted to the housing 101 side via the copper foil pattern of the illumination substrate 114 and the heat dissipating sheet 117. Thereby, heat can be efficiently radiated to the outside of the image processing apparatus 100.

  A plurality of LEDs 113 are arranged in a matrix on the front surface of the illumination board 114. Each of the LEDs 113 is covered by an illumination lens 112. On the illumination board 114, eight sets of the LED 113 and the illumination lens 112 (the above-described illumination control unit 111) are arranged around a hole formed in a substantially central portion through which the imaging lens 131 passes. The The illumination board 114 is connected to a control board for the lower controller unit 120 by a connector cable.

  The imaging lens 131 is cylindrical. A lens having a center line of the cylinder as an optical axis is disposed inside the cylinder. The lens has a range (field of view, imaging range) of an imaging target that is incident on the imaging device 132 in accordance with back focus (BF) that is a distance from the imaging device 132. The imaging lens 131 guides light incident from the outside through the window member 118 to the imaging element 132. In the imaging lens 131, a male screw is formed on the outer periphery of the cylinder opposite to the side on which the light is incident.

  The optical axis of the imaging lens 131 passes through the approximate center of the window member 118 and passes through the approximate center of the imaging surface of the image sensor 132. That is, the optical axis of the imaging lens 131 is the X-axis direction. In addition, the imaging lens 131 is disposed so as to penetrate a hole formed in a substantially central portion of the illumination substrate 114 of the illumination unit 110.

  The lens guide 161 guides the lens holder 134 so that it can move along the direction of the optical axis of the imaging lens 131, that is, the X-axis direction, and the lens slider 162 can move along the vertical direction, that is, the Y-axis direction. I will guide you. The lens guide 161 is fastened to the bracket formed on the housing 101 with two screws 168. Thereby, the lens guide 161 is fixed to the housing 101.

  The adjustment screw 163 is formed with a cross hole for rotating the adjustment screw 163 by placing a Phillips screwdriver on the head, and a male screw is formed on the shaft. A hole through which the shaft of the adjustment screw 163 passes is formed on the upper surface of the housing 101 together with a counterbore that can accommodate the head of the adjustment screw 163. The adjusting screw 163 is attached such that the shaft passes through the hole, the head is accommodated in the counterbore, and the direction of the shaft is the negative direction of the Y-axis direction. As a result, the head of the adjustment screw 163 does not protrude from the upper surface, but the tool is exposed so that it is possible to hang the tool and turn the screw.

  It should be noted that the hole or groove in which the tool of the adjusting screw 163 is hung is not limited to the cross-shaped hole for a plus driver, and may have another shape, for example, a slot for a minus driver, It may be a plus / minus hole that can be handled by both plus and minus drivers, or a hexagon hole for a hexagon wrench.

  The adjustment screw 163 is fixed to the casing 101 with the screw 167 in a state where the adjustment screw holder 166 holds the neck so that the adjustment screw 163 can rotate, so that the movement in the axial direction is restricted. Mounted on. Thereby, the adjustment screw 163 can rotate in the rotation direction of the screw with respect to the housing 101, but the movement in the Y-axis direction is restricted.

  An O-ring 164 for waterproofing and dust-proofing is attached to the gap between the head of the adjustment screw 163 and the counterbore part of the housing 101 so that water and dust do not enter from the outside through the screw through hole. . The O-ring 164 is attached to the adjustment screw 163 so as not to move in the Y-axis direction.

  When the O-ring 164 moves in the Y-axis direction, there is a high possibility that water or dust adhering to the wall surface of the counterbore or the shaft of the adjusting screw 163 will be scraped or entrapped to enter the inside. However, in this embodiment, the O-ring 164 moves relative to the adjustment screw 163 and the housing 101 in the rotational direction, but is restricted in movement in the Y-axis direction. It is possible to prevent the adhering water or dust from being scraped or entrapped to enter the inside.

  The lens slider 162 has a frame structure that surrounds the lens guide 161 and the lens holder 134. The frame structure is composed of symmetrical left and right vertical frames and upper and lower horizontal frames connecting two vertical frames. The lens slider 162 includes a female screw portion that is screwed with the male screw of the adjustment screw 163 outside the vertical frame on the Z-axis plus direction side.

  The lens slider 162 is guided by the lens guide 161 so as to be movable along the Y-axis direction. The movement of the adjusting screw 163 is restricted only in the Y-axis direction. For this reason, when the adjustment screw 163 is rotated clockwise, that is, in the tightening direction, the lens slider 162 moves in the direction approaching the head of the adjustment screw 163 with respect to the housing 101, that is, the Y axis plus direction. On the other hand, when the adjustment screw 163 is rotated counterclockwise, that is, in a loosening direction, the lens slider 162 moves relative to the housing 101 in a direction away from the head of the adjustment screw 163, that is, in the negative direction of the Y axis.

  Two hexagon nuts 165 are attached as double nuts on the front end side of the screwing portion of the adjustment screw 163 with the lens slider 162. Thereby, the movement range of the lens slider 162 can be limited with a simple structure. In addition, the structure which restrict | limits the movement range of the lens slider 162 is not limited to this, The structure which cuts a groove | channel at the front-end | tip part of the adjustment screw 163, and attaches an E ring to the groove | channel may be sufficient.

  Further, the nominal diameter (for example, M2) of the screw where the hexagon nut 165 of the adjustment screw 163 is screwed is made smaller than the nominal diameter (for example, M3) of the screw at the screwing portion with the lens slider 162. . Thereby, compared with the case where the nominal diameter is not reduced, the gap between the lens slider 162 or the other part of the image processing apparatus 100 such as the housing 101 and the hex nut 165 can be increased. Workability when turning can be improved.

  The vertical frame of the lens slider 162 has a shape similar to the letter “Z” in the alphabet in a side view (viewed from the X-axis direction in FIG. 4). The lens slider 162 includes a belt-like inclined portion 1621 that resembles the oblique portion of the letter “Z”. The belt-like inclined portion 1621 extends in a direction different from the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction (hereinafter referred to as “slide direction”) included in the plane including the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. A plane including the slide direction, the X axis, and the Y axis is referred to as a slide plane.

  Most of the lens holder 134 has a hollow cylindrical shape. Inside the hollow cylinder, a female screw into which a male screw formed on the imaging lens 131 is screwed is formed over the entire length of the hollow cylinder. Here, the female screw is formed over the entire length, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the female screw may be formed only at a portion screwed with the male screw.

  The lens holder 134 and the lens guide 161 each have a slidable surface. The lens holder 134 and the lens guide 161 slide relatively along the surface. The lens holder 134 has a projection for preventing rotation around the X axis and sliding only in the X axis direction, and a line parallel to the Y axis passing through the vicinity of the center of gravity of the hollow cylinder and the outer peripheral surface intersect. It has around the point to do. The lens guide 161 is provided with an engaging groove that engages with the protrusion of the lens holder 134.

  However, the present invention is not limited to such a structure, and any other structure may be used as long as the lens holder 134 is guided along the X-axis direction so that the lens holder 134 does not rotate around the X-axis. Also good. For example, the outer surface of the lens holder 134 is not cylindrical, but may have another shape, for example, a columnar shape having a round cross section of a square corner. Thus, by making it columnar shape of cross-sectional shape other than a circle | round | yen, when sliding to an axial direction, it can prevent rotating around an axis | shaft.

  A portion that does not slide with the lens guide 161 on the outer peripheral surface of the lens holder 134, here, a portion around a point where the outer peripheral surface intersects with a line parallel to the Z axis passing through the vicinity of the center of gravity of the hollow cylinder, An engagement protrusion 1622 that is engaged with the belt-like inclined portion 1621 of the lens slider 162 is provided.

  The engaging protrusion 1622 has a pair of protrusions that sandwich the band-shaped inclined portion 1621. That is, the interval between the two protrusions is equal to the width of the band-shaped inclined portion 1621. Both are fitted by a simplistic fit. The material of the engaging protrusion 1622 is resin. Since the fit is adopted, there is no play between the band-shaped inclined portion 1621 and the engaging protrusion 1622. However, since the material of the engaging protrusion 1622 is resin and has appropriate elasticity, The slide of the engagement protrusion 1622 can be prevented from being hindered.

  When the lens slider 162 is moved in the Y-axis direction by the action of the conversion mechanism configured by the lens guide 161, the belt-shaped inclined portion 1621, and the engagement protrusion 1622, the protrusion of the engagement protrusion 1622 is perpendicular to the slide direction described above. Receiving force in any direction. Since the lens holder 134 is movable in the X-axis direction but is restricted in movement in the Y-axis direction, the lens holder 134 and the imaging lens 131 are moved in the X-axis direction.

  An adjustment mechanism for adjusting the back focus of the lens by moving the lens along the direction of the optical axis, with the lens guide 161, the lens slider 162, the adjustment screw 163, the lens holder 134, and the imaging lens 131 as main components. Is configured.

  Light from the imaging target is incident along the optical axis through the window member 118 and the imaging lens 131 on the imaging surface constituted by the above-described CCD or CMOS of the imaging element 132. That is, an image to be imaged is formed on the imaging surface. The imaging element 132 converts the light incident on the imaging surface into an electrical signal and outputs the electrical signal to the imaging substrate 133.

  The imaging board 133 processes the electrical signal input from the imaging element 132 and outputs it to the control board for the controller unit 120. The imaging board 133 is fastened to the lens guide 161 with two screws 169. Since the lens guide 161 is fixed to the housing 101, the imaging substrate 133 is indirectly fixed to the housing 101. The imaging board 133 is connected to the board of the lower controller unit 120 by a connector cable.

  An interface unit 180 is attached to the lower part of the internal chassis 170. In other words, the internal chassis 170 is disposed on the interface unit 180. In the present embodiment, the internal chassis 170 (and 171) is fixed to the interface unit 180 by screws 181 and 181 (see FIGS. 3 and 15).

  The interface unit 180 includes a housing lid 182, an interface board 184, connectors 311 and 313, and the like.

  More specifically, the interface board 184 is disposed above the housing lid 182 (inside the housing 101). The controller unit 120 is arranged above the interface board by the internal chassis 170. The connectors 311 and 313 are connected to the outside of the image processing apparatus 100 and the interface board 184 through the housing lid 182.

  The case lid 182 is for sealing the opening 101Y (see FIGS. 8, 9, 12, and 13) at the bottom of the case 101. A packing 183 that is in close contact with the inside of the opening 101Y is attached to the housing lid 182 on the inner chassis 171 side. That is, the image processing apparatus 100 forms a waterproof structure for waterproofing and dustproofing between the opening 101Y of the housing 101 and the housing lid 182.

<Attachment Structure of Imaging Unit 130, Internal Chassis 170, and Housing 101>
Below, the attachment structure to the image processing apparatus 100 of the imaging part 130 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated in detail. In other words, a mounting structure among the imaging unit 130, the internal chassis 170, and the side view casing 101 or the front view casing 102 will be described.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment has a type (side view type shown in FIGS. 6 to 9) that can photograph the side of the casing 101 as described above. As described later, this includes a type (front view type shown in FIGS. 10 to 13) capable of photographing the upper part of the housing 101. The system configuration of the visual sensor system 1, the configuration of the image processing device 100 and the display device 200, and the hardware configuration of the image processing device 100 as described in FIGS. 1 to 5 are the side view type and the front view type. And so on.

(Attachment structure to the internal chassis 170 of the side view type imaging unit 130)
First, regarding the side-view type image processing apparatus 100, a structure for attaching the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 170 will be described. FIG. 6 is a right side view (FIG. 6 (A)) and a front view (FIG. 6 (B)) showing a mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 of the side view type image processing apparatus 100 to the internal chassis 170. It is a left side view (Drawing 6 (C)), and a rear view (Drawing 6 (D)). FIG. 7 is a front perspective view (A) and a rear perspective view (B) showing a mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 170 according to the side view type image processing apparatus 100.

  With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, in the image processing apparatus 100, the controller unit 120 and the imaging unit 130 are supported by the internal chassis 170. The internal chassis 170 supports the controller unit 120 at the lower part of the image processing apparatus 100 and supports the imaging unit 130 at the upper part of the image processing apparatus 100. The internal chassis 170 supports the controller unit 120 inside thereof.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 is inserted into the housing 101 while being temporarily held by the upper portion of the right wall surface 170R and the upper portion of the left wall surface 170L of the internal chassis 170. Then, the imaging unit 130 is permanently fixed to the housing 101. As will be described later, the inside of the housing 101 is sealed by the housing 101, the housing lid 182, and the window member 118. In the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 is supported by the internal chassis 170 only at the time of assembly, but may be supported by the internal chassis 170 and the housing 101 after the assembly is completed.

  Regarding the imaging unit 130, the lens guide 161 has two protrusions 161A and 161B formed on the right side thereof. The lens guide 161 has two protrusions 161C and 161D formed on the left side thereof. The lens guide 161 has a screw hole 161R formed in the right part of the front surface thereof, and a screw hole 161L formed in the left part.

  The relative directions of the two protrusions 161A and 161B are inclined 45 degrees from the optical axis of the lens 131. That is, the angle between the direction of the straight line connecting the centers of the two protrusions 161A and 161B and the vertical direction of the housing 101 or the internal chassis 170 is 45 degrees. Similarly, the relative directions of the two protrusions 161C and 161D are inclined 45 degrees from the optical axis of the lens 131. That is, the angle between the direction of the straight line connecting the centers of the two protrusions 161C and 161D and the vertical direction of the housing 101 or the internal chassis 170 is 45 degrees.

  As described later, the imaging unit 130 can be supported above the internal chassis 170 by supporting the protrusions 161A, 161B, 161C, and 161D by the upper portion of the internal chassis 170. At this time, the imaging unit 130 is supported so that the shooting direction is the horizontal direction.

  With respect to the internal chassis 170, the upper portion of the right wall surface 170R is formed such that its front is low and its rear is high. Two notches 170A and 170B are formed in the upper portion of the right wall surface 170R. The cutout portion 170A is higher than the cutout portion 170B and is positioned rearward. That is, the notch 170B is located lower and lower than the notch 170A. The notch 170A opens upward. The notch 170B opens forward.

  The relative direction of the two notches 170A and 170B is inclined 45 degrees from the vertical direction of the internal chassis 170. That is, the relative direction of the two notches 170A and 170B is inclined 45 degrees from the horizontal direction. That is, the angle between the direction of the straight line connecting the centers of the two notches 170A and 170B and the vertical direction of the housing 101 or the internal chassis 170 is 45 degrees. Similarly, the relative direction of the two notches 170C and 170D is inclined 45 degrees from the vertical direction of the internal chassis 170. That is, the relative direction of the two notches 170C and 170D is inclined 45 degrees from the horizontal direction. That is, the angle between the direction of the straight line connecting the centers of the two notches 170C and 170D and the vertical direction of the casing 101 or the internal chassis 170 is 45 degrees.

  Since the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 170 are configured in this way, the two protrusions 161A and 161B on the right side surface of the imaging unit 130 are formed on the two cutouts 170A and 170B on the right wall surface 170R of the internal chassis 170. By engaging the two protrusions 161C and 161D on the left side surface of the imaging unit 130 with the two notches 170C and 170D of the left wall surface 170L of the internal chassis 170, the imaging unit 130 can be adjusted in its shooting direction. It can be temporarily held so as to be horizontal (front). That is, the internal chassis 170 can temporarily hold the imaging unit 130 for side view.

(Attachment structure to the housing 101 of the side view type internal chassis 170)
Next, regarding the side view type image processing apparatus 100, a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the side view casing 101 will be described. FIG. 8 is a right side view (FIG. 8A) and a front view (FIG. 8B) showing a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the side view housing 101 according to the side view type image processing apparatus 100. ), A left side view (FIG. 8C), and a rear view (FIG. 8D). FIG. 9 is a front perspective view (A) and a rear perspective view (B) showing a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the side view housing 101 according to the side view type image processing apparatus 100.

  Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, as described above, side view housing 101 has imaging opening 101 </ b> X formed on the front surface and opening 101 </ b> Y for inserting internal chassis 170 formed on the bottom surface. Has been. The internal chassis 170 and the imaging unit 130 are inserted into the housing 101 through the opening 101Y.

  More specifically, as described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the internal chassis 170 temporarily holding the imaging unit 130 so that the imaging direction is horizontal (front) is inserted into the housing 101. . The internal chassis 107 is inserted into the housing 101 so that the imaging direction coincides with the front of the housing 101.

  Here, screw holes 101L and 101R are formed in the side view casing 101 in the vicinity of the opening 101X. The screw holes 101L and 101R correspond to the screw holes 161L and 161R formed in the lens guide 161 of the imaging unit 130. The screw holes 101L and 101R and the screw holes 161L and 161R are for permanently fixing the imaging unit 130 to the housing 101. The numbers of the screw holes 101L and 101R and the screw holes 161L and 161R are not limited.

  In this way, the internal chassis 170 that temporarily holds the imaging unit 130 forward is inserted into the housing 101 through the opening 101Y. The internal chassis 170 is fixed to the bottom of the housing 101 with screws or an adhesive. Then, the imaging unit 130 is fixed to the housing 101 by tightening the screw holes 101L and 101R and the screw holes 161L and 161R with screws (not shown).

  Then, the window member 118 is in close contact with the housing 101. That is, the opening 101X is sealed by the window member 118. In addition, the case lid 182 is in close contact with the case 101. That is, the opening 101 </ b> Y is sealed by the housing lid 182.

(Mounting structure of front view type imaging unit 130 to internal chassis 170)
Next, regarding the front view type image processing apparatus 100, a mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 170 will be described. FIG. 10 is a right side view (FIG. 10A) and a front view (FIG. 10B) showing a structure for attaching the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 170 according to the front view type image processing apparatus 100. It is a left side view (Drawing 10 (C)), and a rear view (Drawing 10 (D)). FIGS. 11A and 11B are a front perspective view (A) and a rear perspective view (B) showing a mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 of the front view type image processing apparatus 100 to the internal chassis 170. FIG.

  Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, front view type imaging unit 130 and internal chassis 170 are the same as those of side view type, and therefore the description of each configuration will not be repeated. That is, the same imaging unit 130 and internal chassis 170 can be used when manufacturing the side-view type image processing apparatus 100 and when manufacturing the front-view type image processing apparatus 100.

  In other words, only the housing is different between the side view type and the front view type. That is, the positions of the openings 101X and 102X for imaging differ between the casing 101 of the side view type image processing apparatus 100 and the casing 102 of the front view type image processing apparatus 100.

  Since the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 170 are configured as described above, the two protrusions 161A and 161B on the right side surface of the imaging unit 130 are replaced with the two notches 170C and 170D on the left wall surface 170L of the internal chassis 170. And the two protrusions 161C and 161D on the left side surface of the imaging unit 130 are engaged with the two notches 170A and 170B of the right wall surface 170R of the internal chassis 170, thereby causing the imaging unit 130 to be in the shooting direction. Can be temporarily held so as to be vertical (upward). That is, the internal chassis 170 can temporarily hold the imaging unit 130 for the front view.

(Mounting structure of front view type internal chassis 170 to case 102)
Next, regarding the front view type image processing apparatus 100, a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the front view housing 102 will be described. 12A and 12B are a right side view (FIG. 12A) showing a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the front view housing 102 according to the front view type image processing apparatus 100, and a front view (FIG. 12B). ), A left side view (FIG. 12C), and a rear view (FIG. 12D). FIGS. 13A and 13B are a front perspective view (A) and a rear perspective view (B) showing a structure for attaching the internal chassis 170 to the front view housing 102 according to the front view type image processing apparatus 100.

  Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the front view housing 102 has an imaging opening 102 </ b> X formed on the top surface and an opening 102 </ b> Y for inserting the internal chassis 170 formed on the bottom surface. The internal chassis 170 and the imaging unit 130 are inserted into the housing 102 through the opening 102Y.

  More specifically, as described above with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the internal chassis 170 temporarily holding the imaging unit 130 so that the imaging direction is vertical (upward) is inserted into the housing 102. . The internal chassis 107 is inserted into the housing 102 so that the imaging direction coincides with the upper side of the housing 102.

  Here, screw holes 102L and 102R are formed in the front view housing 102 in the vicinity of the opening 102X. The screw holes 102L and 102R correspond to the screw holes 161L and 161R formed in the lens guide 161 of the imaging unit 130. The screw holes 102 </ b> L and 102 </ b> R and the screw holes 161 </ b> L and 161 </ b> R are for fixing the imaging unit 130 to the housing 102. The numbers of the screw holes 102L and 102R and the screw holes 161L and 161R are not limited.

  Thus, the internal chassis 170 that temporarily holds the imaging unit 130 upward is inserted into the housing 102 through the opening 102Y. The internal chassis 170 is fixed to the bottom of the housing 102 with screws or an adhesive. Then, the imaging unit 130 is fixed to the housing 102 by tightening the screw holes 102L and 102R and the screw holes 161L and 161R with screws (not shown).

  The window member 118 is in close contact with the housing 102. That is, the opening 102X is sealed by the window member 118. In addition, the housing lid 182 is in close contact with the housing 102. That is, the opening 102Y is sealed by the housing lid 182.

<Attaching Method of Imaging Unit 130, Internal Chassis 170, and Housing 101>
Next, a method for attaching the imaging unit 130 to the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. In other words, a manufacturing method of the image processing apparatus 100 (imaging apparatus) including the imaging unit 130, the internal chassis 170, and the side view casing 101 or the front view casing 102 will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the image processing apparatus 100. Referring to FIG. 14, first, a side view casing 101 or a front view casing 102 is prepared (step S102). When the side view casing 101 is prepared (YES in step S104), the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held by the internal chassis 170 (step S106). Here, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the imaging unit 130 is held so that the imaging direction faces the front of the image processing apparatus 100.

  The internal chassis 170 is inserted into the housing 101 (step S108). More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the internal chassis 170 is inserted into the housing 101 through the opening 101 </ b> Y while temporarily holding the imaging unit 130. An internal chassis 170 is fixed to the housing 101.

  By using the screw holes 161L, 161R and the screw holes 101L, 101R, the imaging unit 130 is fixed to the housing 101 (step S110). At this time, the imaging unit 130 is arranged so that the outside of the housing 101 can be imaged through the opening 101X. That is, the imaging unit 130 is exposed to the outside of the housing 101 through the opening 102X. Thereafter, the interior of the image processing apparatus 100 is hermetically sealed by the housing 101, the internal chassis 170, the window member 118, the housing lid 182 and an adhesive for fixing them.

  When the front view housing 102 is prepared (NO in step S104), the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held by the internal chassis 170 (step S112). Here, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the imaging unit 130 is held such that the imaging direction faces upward of the image processing apparatus 100.

  The internal chassis 170 is inserted into the housing 102 (step S114). More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the internal chassis 170 is inserted into the housing 102 through the opening 102 </ b> Y while temporarily holding the imaging unit 130. An internal chassis 170 is fixed to the housing 102.

  By using the screw holes 161L, 161R and the screw holes 102L, 102R, the imaging unit 130 is fixed to the housing 102 (step S116). At this time, the imaging unit 130 is arranged so that the outside of the housing 102 can be imaged through the opening 102X. That is, the imaging unit 130 is exposed to the outside of the housing 101 through the opening 102X. Thereafter, the interior of the image processing apparatus 100 is hermetically sealed by the housing 102, the internal chassis 170, the window member 118, the housing lid 182 and an adhesive for fixing them.

<Summary of mounting structure>
Thus, in the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 170 of the image processing apparatus 100 in the front view type are the same as those of the image processing apparatus 100 in the side view type. In other words, the same imaging unit 130 and internal chassis 170 can be used when the side view type image processing apparatus 100 is manufactured and when the front view type image processing apparatus 100 is manufactured. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured while increasing variations in the shape of the casings 101 and 102 or the shooting direction.

  In addition, the relative direction of the two protrusions 161A and 161B and the relative direction of the two protrusions 161C and 161D are inclined 45 degrees from the optical axis of the lens 131. The relative direction of the two notches 170A and 170B is inclined 45 degrees from the vertical direction of the internal chassis 170. Therefore, in the case of the side view type image processing apparatus 100 and the case of the front view type image processing apparatus 100, the same protrusions 161A, 161B, 161C, 161D and the same notches 170A, 170B, 170C, 170D are provided. Can also be used.

  More specifically, in order to improve the waterproof performance and dustproof performance of the image processing apparatus 100, in the present embodiment, openings 101X and 101Y (102X) are formed on the side surface (upper surface) and the bottom surface of the housing 101 (102). , 102Y). That is, by providing the imaging unit 130 and the controller unit 120 inside the integrally formed casing 101 (102), waterproof performance and dustproof performance are enhanced.

  Furthermore, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment can insert the internal chassis 170 and the imaging unit 130 from the opening 101Y (102Y) while holding the imaging unit 130 in a desired direction by the internal chassis 170. . In particular, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment inserts the imaging unit 130 into the housing 101 (102) in a state where the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held by the internal chassis 170, and then the imaging unit 130 is installed in the housing. This is to be fixed to the body 101 (102).

  This simplifies the mounting work inside the housing 101 (102), and makes it possible to reduce the opening 101Y (102Y) for inserting a member into the housing 101 (102). That is, the waterproof performance and the dustproof performance can be further improved by reducing the boundary between the members constituting the outer wall of the housing 101 (102) (the contact point between the members).

  As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured due to variations in the shape of the casing 101 (102) or the photographing direction while maintaining the dustproof / waterproofness of the casing 101 (102).

<Modification of mounting structure>
In the present embodiment, the relative direction of the two protrusions 161A and 161B and the relative direction of the two protrusions 161C and 161D are inclined 45 degrees from the optical axis of the lens 131. The relative direction of the two notches 170A and 170B is inclined 45 degrees from the vertical direction of the internal chassis 170. However, it is not limited to such a configuration.

  A plurality of holes into which the projections of the lens guide 161 are inserted may be formed in the internal chassis 170 instead of the notches.

  Alternatively, the internal chassis 170 has a first hole for holding the imaging unit 130 so that the imaging direction is forward, and a second hole for holding the imaging unit 130 so that the imaging direction is upward. These holes may be formed separately. That is, when the imaging unit 130 is held so that the imaging direction is forward, only the first hole may be used without using the second hole. On the contrary, when the imaging unit 130 is held so that the imaging direction is upward, only the second hole may be used without using the first hole.

  Alternatively, the lens guide 161 has a first protrusion for temporarily holding the imaging unit 130 with respect to the internal chassis 170 so that the imaging direction is forward, and the imaging unit 130 is upward in the imaging direction. The second protrusion for temporarily holding the inner chassis 170 may be formed separately. That is, when the imaging unit 130 is held so that the imaging direction is forward, only the first projection may be used without using the second projection. Conversely, when the imaging unit 130 is held so that the imaging direction is upward, only the second projection may be used without using the first projection.

  Further, the inner chassis 170 may be provided with a protrusion instead of the notch, and the lens guide 161 may be provided with a notch instead of the protrusion.

  Thus, also in the above modification, the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 170 of the image processing apparatus 100 in the front view type are the same as those of the image processing apparatus 100 in the side view type. In other words, the same imaging unit 130 and internal chassis 170 can be used when the side view type image processing apparatus 100 is manufactured and when the front view type image processing apparatus 100 is manufactured. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured while increasing variations in the shape of the casings 101 and 102 or the shooting direction.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment described above, the internal chassis 170 is composed of one member. In addition, the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held by the internal chassis 170 at four locations. However, the internal chassis may be composed of a plurality of members. Further, the number of locations where the imaging unit is temporarily held is not limited to four.

  In the following second embodiment, the internal chassis 171 is composed of two members 171L and 171R. In addition, the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held at two locations by the internal chassis 171.

  1, the entire configuration of the visual sensor system 1 shown in FIG. 1, the functional configurations of the image processing apparatus 100 and the display apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 2, the configuration other than the internal chassis 171 shown in FIGS. The description of the configuration of the housing 101 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 and the mounting method shown in FIG.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the internal chassis 171 and the mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 to the image processing apparatus 100 in the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Also in the present embodiment, the image processing apparatus 100 is a type capable of photographing the side of the casing 101 (side view type) and a type capable of photographing the top of the casing 102 (front view type). Is included.

  Here, regarding the side-view type image processing apparatus 100, a structure for attaching the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 171 will be described. FIG. 15 is a front perspective view showing a mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 171 in the side view type image processing apparatus 100. FIGS. 16A and 16B are a right side view (FIG. 16A) and a front view (FIG. 16B) showing a structure for attaching the imaging unit 130 to the internal chassis 171 of the side view type image processing apparatus 100. They are a left side view (FIG. 16C) and a rear view (FIG. 16D).

  Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, in the image processing apparatus 100, the controller unit 120 and the imaging unit 130 are supported by the internal chassis 171. The internal chassis 171 according to the present embodiment includes a left member 171L and a right member 171R. The left member 171L and the right member 171R are separate members. The left member 171L is fixed to the housing cover 182 with a screw 181. The right member 171R is fixed to the housing lid 182 with a screw 181 (not shown) facing the left member 171L.

  The left member 171L and the right member 171R of the internal chassis 171 support the controller unit 120 in the lower part of the image processing apparatus 100 and support the imaging unit 130 in the upper part of the image processing apparatus 100. The left member 171L and the right member 171R of the internal chassis 171 support the controller unit 120 on the inner side (between them).

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 is inserted into the housing 101 while being temporarily held by the upper part of the right member 171R and the upper part of the left member 171L of the internal chassis 171. Then, the imaging unit 130 is permanently fixed to the housing 101. In the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 is supported by the internal chassis 171 only at the time of assembly, but may be supported by the internal chassis 171 and the housing 101 after completion of the assembly.

  In the present embodiment, with respect to the internal chassis 171, the upper part of the right member 171R is formed substantially horizontally. A hole 171A is formed in the upper front portion of the right member 171R.

  Similarly, in the present embodiment, with respect to the internal chassis 171, the upper part of the left member 171L is also formed substantially horizontally. A hole 171B is formed in the front upper portion of the left member 171L.

  Since the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 171 are configured in this way, the projection 161A on the window member 118 side of the two projections 161A and 161B on the right side surface of the imaging unit 130 is replaced with the right member 171R of the internal chassis 171. The projection 161C on the window member 118 side of the two projections 161C and 161D on the left side of the imaging unit 130 is fitted into the hole 171B of the left member 171L of the internal chassis 171. Thus, the imaging unit 130 can be temporarily held so that the shooting direction is horizontal (front). That is, the internal chassis 171 can temporarily hold the imaging unit 130 for side view.

  Note that the mounting structure of the internal chassis 171 to the side view housing 101 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will not be repeated here.

  In addition, the mounting structure of the imaging unit 130 of the front view type image processing apparatus 100 to the internal chassis 171 is clear from the description of FIGS. 10, 11, 15, and 16, and thus detailed description thereof will not be repeated. That is, of the two protrusions 161A and 161B on the right side surface of the imaging unit 130, the projection 161B on the imaging substrate 133 side is fitted into the hole 171B of the left member 171L of the internal chassis 171 so that the left side surface of the imaging unit 130 is The projection 161D on the imaging board 133 side of the two projections 161C and 161D is fitted into the hole 171A of the right member 171R of the internal chassis 171 so that the imaging direction of the imaging unit 130 is vertical (upward). Can be temporarily held. That is, the internal chassis 171 can temporarily hold the imaging unit 130 for the front view.

  Note that the structure for attaching the internal chassis 171 to the front view housing 102 is the same as that in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will not be repeated here.

<Summary of mounting structure according to this embodiment>
As described above, also in the present embodiment, the imaging unit 130 and the internal chassis 171 of the image processing apparatus 100 in the front view type are the same as those of the image processing apparatus 100 in the side view type. That is, the same imaging unit 130 and internal chassis 171 can be used when manufacturing the side-view type image processing apparatus 100 and when manufacturing the front-view type image processing apparatus 100. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured while increasing variations in the shape of the casings 101 and 102 or the shooting direction.

  More specifically, in order to improve the waterproof performance and dustproof performance of the image processing apparatus 100, the openings 101X and 101Y (102X) are formed on the side surface (upper surface) and the bottom surface of the housing 101 (102) also in the present embodiment. , 102Y). That is, by providing the imaging unit 130 and the controller unit 120 inside the integrally formed casing 101 (102), waterproof performance and dustproof performance are enhanced.

  Furthermore, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment can insert the internal chassis 171 and the imaging unit 130 from the opening 101Y (102Y) while holding the imaging unit 130 in a desired direction by the internal chassis 171. . In particular, the image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment inserts the imaging unit 130 into the housing 101 (102) in a state where the imaging unit 130 is temporarily held by the internal chassis 171, and then the imaging unit 130 is installed in the housing. This is to be fixed to the body 101 (102).

  This simplifies the mounting work inside the housing 101 (102), and makes it possible to reduce the opening 101Y (102Y) for inserting a member into the housing 101 (102). That is, the waterproof performance and the dustproof performance can be further improved by reducing the boundary between the members constituting the outer wall of the housing 101 (102) (the contact point between the members).

  As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts to be manufactured due to variations in the shape of the casing 101 (102) or the photographing direction while maintaining the dustproof / waterproofness of the casing 101 (102).

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Visual sensor system, 100 Image processing apparatus, 101 Side view housing, 101X, 101Y opening, 102 Front view housing, 102X, 102Y opening, 110 Illumination unit, 111 Illumination control unit, 112 Illumination lens, 117 Heat dissipation sheet, 118 window member, 119 adhesive sheet, 120 controller unit, 121 sensor control unit, 122 sensor data receiving unit, 123 indicator light control unit, 124 measurement processing unit, 125 input / output control unit, 126 external device communication unit, 127 Input / output unit, 129 power supply unit, 130 camera assembly (imaging unit), 131 imaging lens, 132 imaging element, 133 imaging substrate, 134 lens holder, 149 memory, 150 CPU, 161 lens guide, 162 Lens slider, 163 Adjustment screw, 164 O-ring, 165 Hex nut, 166 Adjustment screw holder, 167, 168, 169 Screw, 200 Display device, 201 LCD, 202 LCD control unit, 203 Display image control unit, 204 Image control unit, 205 Image storage unit, 206 Fieldbus control unit, 207, 208, 209 Communication unit, 210 Operation unit, 211 Power supply unit, 301 LAN cable, 302 IO cable, 311, 312, 313 Connector, 500 Workpiece, 1621 Band-shaped inclined unit, 1622 engagement protrusion.

Claims (7)

A housing,
A camera assembly disposed within the housing;
An internal chassis disposed within the housing and supporting the camera assembly;
The housing includes an opening that exposes a part of the camera assembly on either the upper surface or the side surface.
A state in which the camera assembly is supported toward the upper surface of the casing in accordance with a position where the opening of the casing is provided between the internal chassis and the camera assembly, and the camera An imaging apparatus provided with a camera support structure capable of selecting a state in which an assembly is supported toward the side surface of the housing. The camera support structure is
An engagement protrusion provided on either the side surface of the camera assembly or the internal chassis;
An engagement support portion that is provided on either the side surface of the camera assembly or the inner chassis and that engages with the engagement protrusion.
Whether the camera assembly is supported toward the upper surface of the housing or the camera assembly is supported toward the side surface of the housing, The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the joint protrusion and the engagement support are used. The engaging protrusions include two first protrusions formed on a first side surface of the camera assembly and two second protrusions formed on a second side surface parallel to the first side surface. Have protrusions,
The engagement support portion includes a first support wall and a second support wall parallel to the first support wall;
The first support wall has two first cutout portions formed at an upper end of the first support wall;
The second support wall has two second cutout portions formed at an upper end of the second support wall;
The two first protrusions engage with the two first notches, respectively.
The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each of the two second protrusions engages with the two second cutout portions. An angle formed between a direction in which a straight line connecting the two first protrusions extends and a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees,
An angle formed between a direction in which a straight line connecting the two second protrusions extends and a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees,
An angle formed by a direction in which a straight line connecting the two first cutout portions extends and a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the housing is 45 degrees,
The angle between the direction in which the straight line connecting the two first cutouts extends and the direction perpendicular to the top surface of the housing is 45 degrees,
The two first protrusions engage with the two first notches, respectively, and the two second protrusions engage with the two second notches, respectively. The camera assembly is supported toward the side of the housing,
The two first protrusions are respectively engaged with the two second notches, and the two second protrusions are respectively engaged with the two first notches. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the camera assembly is supported toward an upper surface of the housing. The engaging protrusions include two first protrusions formed on a first side surface of the camera assembly and two second protrusions formed on a second side surface parallel to the first side surface. Have protrusions,
The engagement support portion includes a first support wall and a second support wall parallel to the first support wall;
The first support wall has a first hole formed at an upper end of the first support wall;
The second support wall has a second hole formed at an upper end of the second support wall;
One of the two first protrusions engages with the first hole, and one of the two second protrusions engages with the second hole, thereby allowing the camera assembly to move. Supported to the side of the body,
The other of the two first protrusions is engaged with the second hole, and the other of the two second protrusions is engaged with the first hole, whereby the camera set The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the three-dimensional object is supported toward the upper surface of the housing.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the casing is a rectangular parallelepiped having a direction perpendicular to the upper surface as a major axis.   The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the camera assembly is fixable to the housing and is temporarily held by the internal chassis when the imaging device is assembled.

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