JAI’s multi-imager product series also features cameras with a unique 2-CCD design with two standard monochrome progressive scan sensors mounted to a custom-designed beam-splitter prism. The two CCDs are precisely aligned to the same optical axis, enabling them to simultaneously capture two real-time images or image streams of the same scene.

The shutter speed and/or gain for each channel can be calibrated independently, such that one CCD captures details in the brighter areas and the second captures the identical images, but with an emphasis on the details in the darker areas.

The two image channels can then be analyzed separately or processed with image fusion algorithms to produce a dynamic range nearly double the normal CCD response – up to 118 dB for 8-bit channel depth. GigE Vision models include built-in image fusion algorithms, as well as SDK routines for host-based processing.

The dual CCD design enables the capture of full linear high dynamic range data without the image compression and noise found in typical single sensor HDR cameras.