A number of modules for capturing images are available for image processing applications with embedded vision. They have different names, such as image sensor module, camera module or vision module. What are the differences between these modules?
Definition of the terms image sensor module, camera module and vision module
Image sensor module: An image sensor module (also referred to as simply “sensor module”) or image sensor board (abbreviated to “sensor board”) is just an image sensor on a printed circuit board (PCB). The advantage is that you do not have to produce the sensor boards themselves.
Camera module: You get more with a camera module. You get image pre-processing, a software package (or software development kit - SDK) for the operation and control of the module, APIs for the programming, all desired drivers, comprehensive documentation and sometimes even a support hotline.
Vision module: The term vision module is not defined as clearly as the previous terms. You have to find out on a case-by-case basis what kind of scope and accessories the relevant vision module offers.
What do the different modules offer in detail?
Image pre-processing: Raw data from a sensor generally still needs some corrections to ensure that irregularities and minor flaws within the sensor are compensated for. This includes non-uniformity in the image, coloring or fixed-pattern noise. Image pre-processing handles this task. The image pre-processing is performed on a so-called in-camera processor, typically an FPGA, or on the host side. It’s most efficient to use an image signal processor that is specialized for this task. To enable this, drivers are provided that work together with the sensor generically or after some adjustments.
Drivers & software packages: These are part of a camera module and required to directly operate the camera module. The drivers and software routines also enable access to the camera, e.g. the camera’s image capture (such as a readout of the image data) and the control of the camera (start/run/trigger/settings). A good software makes many features available, such as settings for the resolution, ROI (region of interest) and auto-setup functions.
Fig1: Sensor board compared to a camera module: Camera modules offer software, drivers and tools for a fast connectivity to a system.
Another plus of adding these to the camera module hardware lies in the stable and clear APIs that enable easy software development and simple integration and connection to other software. This leads directly to documentation & support: the documentation provides a clear description of the features, commands, implemented functions and their exact scope as well as sample applications. Last but not least, good support is important for questions and problems that might arise during the integration of such a module. All modules generally represent a mechanical solution. This includes the soldering of the image sensor, the option to screw in or fasten the module, and the connection through a plug or cable.
Fig2. Basler’s dart BCON for MIPI camera modules come with everything you need to get your system running.
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