Whether scanner, IR transmitter, infrared camera ...
we will find the optimal optical filter
One of the primary goals in the development of image processing components or HMI (Human Machine Interfaces) is to achieve the best possible image contrast. Attempting to increase system performance in this regard by upgrading the "lighting" or "lens" components can significantly increase the cost of such a system. However, when the spectral characteristics of the object to be imaged are taken into account, it is found that optical filters can improve image quality with minimal impact on other design elements.
Transmission curves define optical filters
There is a range of filter types that are essentially defined by the structure of their transmission curves. Optical filters are devices that selectively transmit light of different wavelengths. Usually a glass or plastic window is installed in front of an electronic display or in the beam path. The panes are either dyed or coated to achieve the desired properties.
An optical filter can selectively transmit light in a specific wavelength range (colours), blocking or eliminating all other colours.
Ready to get specific?
Stephan Zuber
executive director
All kinds of optical filters - finding the right one for every application
The following types of optical filters in particular are used in industrial applications:
- Absorbent
Absorbent filters are made of glass, PMMA or polycarbonate, to which various organic or inorganic additives have been added. These additives absorb the light of certain wavelengths while tranmis others. - Monochrome
Monochromatic filters made of colored glass, acrylic or polycarbonate allow light transmission only in a very narrow frequency or wavelength range (only one color).
ttv offers a wide range of colour filters for use in front of electronic displays
In cast acrylic (LUXACRYL®, ANTIFLEX-AC®) and Polycarbonate).
- Infrared
The term "infrared filter" can be ambiguous, as it can be used for filters that transmit infrared light (and block other wavelengths / visible light) or absorb or reflect infrared light and transmit visible light.
When we talk about IR filters in our product documentation, it is always the former, i.e. filters that transmit infrared light and block the visible part of the light. (see LUXACRYL-IR)
Laser scanners and sensors require reduced light reflection, increased transmission and elimination of ambient light influences in order to optimize measurement and reading results. Likewise, open measuring and sensor units can be exposed to mechanical loads or aggressive substances that can have a lasting negative effect on their function.
ANTIFLEX®-2MC-AFP (crystal clear or in various shades of red) offers the perfect solution for high-quality scanner glass with maximum transmission and lowest residual reflection. This is precision cast acrylic with a multicoating on both sides that provides very low residual reflection and maximum transmission without compromising contour sharpness.
In addition, ANTIFLEX®-2MC-AFP is hard-coated on both sides with surface hardness increased to about 6-8 H. The front side has an anti-fingerprint coating to reduce fingerprints and facilitate cleaning.
ttv offers one of the world's largest portfolios of optical filters (glass, acrylic and polycarbonate) and most likely the right solution for the requirements of your specific application, too.
Ready to get specific?
Stephan Zuber
executive director
Frequently asked questions:
Which material is suitable for infrared applications?
All our acrylic glasses are transmittant up to approx. 2000 nm wavelength (except white tinted). The colour determines the wxct range where transmission is given. LUXACRYL®-IR, a black tinted acrylic glass, is suitable for pure IR applications. It blocks the visible light, but offers transmission in the near IR range up to approx. 1800 nm. LUXARYL-IR can also be produced with optical anti-reflection coating (multicoating) on request.
What type of cover glass do you recommend for scanners and sensors?
Our ANTIFLEX®-2MC-AFP offers highest possible transmission (>98%) combined with lowest possible reflection (<0.5% per side) to increase the accuracy of sensors and scanners and to minimize interference.
For wavelengths > 630 nm we also offer red colored ANTIFLEX-2MC-AFP to minimize interference of visible light.