202 High-Speed Imaging Application Considerations

To obtain satisfactory motion analysis results from a High-Speed Imaging system  or high-speed camera, a number of factors have to be considered.

Knowing what frame rate, image resolution and method of recording can determine the imagery obtained from a test.

How much light is available? How much light is needed?

What is the sensitivity and resolution capability of the imager?

The answers to these questions determine not only the test's equipment requirements, but obviously influence the test's results.

The first question that must be asked is: What do I want to be able to see and/or measure from the motion analysis test? That answer determines everything else. But because of the technology's flexibility, the questions don't have to be answered perfectly.

One of high-speed imaging's greatest assets is immediate playback. If, in the first test, the frame rate is too slow, the rate frame is simply increased. If more light is needed to get a sharper image, another lamp can be added, the lens aperture may be opened or a light amplifier (intensifier) could be used. Engineers can also experiment with various settings to find the optimal parameters.

Need help determining what type of High-Speed Imaging system will best suit your application?

Continue to High-Speed University 301 - High-Speed Imaging Technical Considerations