High resolution encoder ensures accurate image capture

Citation

(2000), "High resolution encoder ensures accurate image capture", Sensor Review, Vol. 20 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2000.08720caf.001

High resolution encoder ensures accurate image capture

High resolution encoder ensures accurate image capture

Keywords: Encoder, Imaging

The automatic sorting of gaming chips is not a new concept, indeed most casinos now have this facility. However until the advent of Active Silicon's patented image processing system, the technology had only been mature enough to sort relatively plain chips into their various denominations. Chip design was mainly restricted to a simple graphics symbol on a plain background colour. Now thanks to an Active Silicon image acquisition system, much more complex images can be sorted (see Plate 1). It was specifically developed on behalf of a major international OEM of gaming machines and is now central to its top-flight chip sorting range. So successful is the product that more than 1,000 image processing units were produced in the last 18 months and Active Silicon has a forward order for at least another 500 next year.

This system considerably extends the commercial potential of the chips as it permits the inclusion of photographs and logos for special events, allowing the gaming house to take advantage of sponsorship opportunities. As well as identifying the chips, the system also isolates counterfeit chips and can be used to supply other management information in the form of statistical analysis. The machine processes chips at the rate of up to 500 per minute and its efficiency is reliant upon the precise synchronisation of the video system and the mechanical system which presents the chip for image processing. This task is the responsibility of a Series 38 encoder from Encoder Technology.

"We had identified the need for an encoder offering 2,000 pulses per revolution as a minimum", explained Active Silicon's technical director Chris Beynon.

Plate 1The Series 38 encoder from Encoder Technology ensures accurate image capture for Active Silicon

The Encoder Technology Series 38 encoder is supplied ex-stock and despite its relatively low cost, actually exceeded Active Silicon's minimum specification. This model provides a resolution of 2,500 lines and high speed switching up to 200kHz. These credentials ensure a high degree of accuracy is obtained on camera alignment in order that a good image may be captured.

So what is the next stage of development in the gaming industry? "Electronic chips within gaming chips is probably the next move", explained Chris Beynon. "But that is not our speciality. Our strength is in image acquisition and we are therefore working with OEMs in other fields which can benefit from this technology." Active Silicon's vision systems are ideal for the automatic sorting of valuable, high volume items which need to reconciled with absolute accuracy. Applications in the security, industrial, scientific and medical imaging markets are prime targets.

Technical queries: Bob Worrall at Encoder on +44 (0) 1903 771402. Website: www.encoder-technology.com