MidOpt (Midwest Optical Systems)
Midwest Optical Systems, headquartered in Palatine, Illinois, has 30 years of experience and innovation in the fields of optical design, fabrication and inspection. MidOpt is a worldwide leader in machine vision filters and optical solutions. They are represented in over 30 countries and offer over 3,000 cutting-edge products. MidOpt filters are the premier solution for industrial imaging to ensure flawless control, dependable results and the very best image quality. Every filter is produced with the highest standards in durability, so they can withstand even the harshest environments. MidOpt filters are designed with a Gaussian transmission curve to allow maximum transmission, emulate the output of the most common LED wavelengths and are less angular dependent.
BANDPASS FILTERS
Bandpass Filters are used in a variety of industries, including machine vision,factory automation, security and surveillance, license plate recognition, medical and life science, agricultural inspection, aerial imaging, motion analysis, photography and cinematography.
MULTI-BANDPASS FILTERS
Dual Bandpass Filters are becoming increasingly popular in NDVI aerial drone inspection, allowing for single sensor imaging and reduced operation payload. NDVI, traditionally achieved by satellite imagery, can now be obtained utilizing Dual Bandpass Filters and personal aerial imaging devices.
LONGPASS FILTERS
Longpass Filters are often used in fluorescence applications to block an excitation light source or to pass multiple emission wavelengths, improving signal to noise ratio. Longpass Filters are also commonly used in photography and astronomy.
SHORTPASS & NIR CUT FILTERS
Often thought of as “IR-cut” filters, Shortpass Filters are specifically designed to pass a broad spectrum of shorter wavelength light, while blocking longer visible and NIR wavelengths. Shortpass Filters are commonly used in color imaging to achieve natural color rendering. They can also be used to protect the sensor from NIR laser damage or to reduce IR radiation or “camera bloom” created during hot metal or glass extrusion processes.
NEUTRAL DENSITY FILTERS
MidOpt Neutral Density Filters serves as “sunglasses” for your system and can be used with monochrome or color cameras. Designed to reduce light intensity neutrally over a specific wavelength range without affecting image color or contrast. Applications include imaging in intense lighting situations (i.e. molten metal and welding), outdoor aerial imaging and photography. Neutral Density Filters help reduce shutter speed to create blur, preventing a “jello” effect in aerial imaging.
POLARIZING FILTERS
Polarizers are designed to reduce specular glare by passing only the light polarized in the direction perpendicular to the reflected light (glare). In addition, they help improve contrast, increase color saturation and detect imperfections in transparent materials. MidOpt Polarizing Filters can be easily and securely mounted to your lens and light source for maximum extinction or glare reduction. Polarizers are commonly used to reduce glare from non-metallic in objects with smooth surfaces or surfaces covered with grease, oil or liquid. For best results, use an optical-grade Polarizer over the lens and Polarizing Film over the light source.
PROTECTIVE FILTERS
Protective Filters are designed to shield your lens and lighting from dirt, dust, liquids, impact and harsh environments without sacrificing image quality. Protective Filters are useful in all imaging applications. The LP285 can withstand high temperatures and is impact resistant with similar qualities to Pyrex.
ACRYLIC FILTERS
Acrylic Longpass Filters are a durable, lightweight and economical solution for inspection windows. They can protect a lens in environments where broken glass might pose a problem. Frequently used for lens protection and economical enclosure windows, as well as over light sources to control the wavelength emission of broad spectrum light sources. Because of their durability, they’re commonly used in FDA and EFSA regulated applications where glass over the inspection area is not permitted. AC370 and AC380 offer anti-abrasion, anti-reflection coating, which can also withstand harsh solvents such as alcohol, acetone or MEK.
LIGHT BALANCING FILTERS
Light Balancing Filters correct artificial lighting so colors appear more natural. These filters balance color, preventing the need for additional software processing. This allows for greater image stability and control. Commonly used in color applications such as machine vision/factory automation, photography, and fluorescence imaging.
FILTER KITS
Filter Kits are a great way to get a variety of filters for an economical price. A filter kit is a staple in any machine vision lab. They allow you to test before investing in hardware, control the variability of ambient light, evaluate glare reduction, and solve applications quickly.
VISION Accessories
STEP UP ADAPTERS
Use larger diameter filters on lenses with smaller diameter filter threads. Often mandatory for shorter focal length lenses in order to prevent vignetting.
Available sizes: SU22.5-25.5 – SU77-105
STEP DOWN ADAPTERS
Use smaller diameter filters on lenses with larger diameter filter threads. The diameter of the filter or lighting to which step-down rings are coupled will be much smaller than the diameter of the lens often resulting in vignetting.
EXTENSION RINGS
Extension Rings are used to decrease the Minimum Object Distance (MOD) for C/CS mount lens. Increase magnification for close-up applications. Available as a 6 Extension Ring Set, 4 Extension Ring Set and individual sizes 0.5mm-100mm
CLEANING KITS
Clean, smudge-free lenses and filters guarantee superior optical performance, which can be achieved using the proper professional cleaning products and methods. Using improper cleaning agents and techniques can damage surface quality and coatings, resulting in degraded performance.
BACKLIGHT FLUORESHEET
Backlights provide sharp contrast to outline a shape, edges or an opening. But applications with space constraints may dictate backlight utilization. When the fluoreSHEET™ is illuminated from the front with a blue LED light, it emits an orange fluorescence. A backlight effect can be created by using a MidOpt Orange Bandpass Filter (BP590) to capture the orange emission and block the blue LED excitation, giving the appearance of a bright white diffuse background in a monochrome image.
ROTATING RIGHT ANGLE ATTACHMENTS
Permits viewing at a 90° angleHelpful for applications with space constraints.
Attachments can be adapted to smaller lenses by using step-up rings.
Assembly locks in position with a thumb screw, guarding against movement due to shock or vibration.
To avoid vignetting, use with longer focal length lenses 16mm or higher.
Can be used in conjunction with a filter.
CLOSE UP LENS SETS
Close-Up Lenses are a cost-effective way to increase focus distance.