Line scan refers to a method of capturing images or data by scanning a single line at a time, as opposed to capturing the entire image simultaneously. This technique is commonly used in various imaging and scanning applications where a continuous or sequential scan along a line is more practical or efficient than capturing the entire image at once.
Key features of line scan imaging include:
Sequential capture: Instead of capturing an entire two-dimensional image at once, line scan systems capture the image one line at a time. This is achieved by moving a linear sensor array or scanning a single line across the object or scene.
Continuous motion: Line scan imaging often involves continuous or constant motion of the sensor or the object being scanned to acquire the complete image. This is particularly useful in applications where real-time or high-speed imaging is required.
High-speed imaging: Line scan cameras can achieve high frame rates because they only need to capture one line of pixels at a time. This makes line scan technology suitable for applications such as industrial inspection, document scanning, and high-speed manufacturing processes.
Applications:
Industrial inspection: Line scan cameras are used for inspecting and detecting defects in continuous production lines, such as in the manufacturing of textiles, paper, and electronics.
Document scanning: In document scanners, a line scan approach is often used for efficient and high-speed scanning of documents or images.
Medical imaging: Line scan imaging can be employed in certain medical imaging applications, such as endoscopy or certain types of radiography.
Sensor arrays: Line scan cameras typically use linear sensor arrays, where each sensor corresponds to a pixel along the scanned line.
Line scan imaging is advantageous in scenarios where capturing an entire image simultaneously is impractical or not efficient. It is well-suited for applications where continuous or high-speed scanning is required to inspect or capture information from objects or scenes in motion.