SDL Atlas G210VB Fabric Visual Assessment Light Box
| Brand | SDL Atlas |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | G210VB |
| Price Range | USD 4,200 – 7,000 |
Overview
The SDL Atlas G210VB Fabric Visual Assessment Light Box is an engineered optical evaluation platform designed for standardized visual grading of fabric surface characteristics—including surface planarity, seam flatness, and crease retention performance. It operates on the principle of controlled chromatic illumination and geometrically consistent viewing geometry, enabling repeatable human-eye-based assessment under CIE standard illuminants (typically D65 or C). The system eliminates ambient light interference by enclosing the sample and observer within a light-tight environment, ensuring that only the calibrated cold-cathode fluorescent (CCFL) or LED-based light source contributes to the visual stimulus. This design conforms to textile evaluation protocols defined in ASTM D1776, ISO 3664, and AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1, where spectral power distribution, uniformity (>85% across viewing area), and color rendering index (CRI ≥90) are critical for inter-laboratory reproducibility.
Key Features
- Two standard viewing lengths: 2400 mm (8 ft) and 1200 mm (4 ft), accommodating both full-width fabric rolls and cut-panel specimens
- High-frequency electronic ballast power supply ensures flicker-free illumination with stable luminance output over extended operational cycles
- Switch-controlled operation with integrated thermal protection and surge suppression circuitry for long-term reliability
- Modular mounting options: wall-mounted configuration for permanent lab integration or mobile trolley-mounted setup for flexible workflow deployment
- Light source optimized for textile color evaluation—meets ISO 3664:2009 requirements for graphic technology and textile viewing conditions
- Optional customization available for viewing angle adjustment (0°/45°/90° configurations), sample holder integration, or dual-illuminant switching (D65 + TL84)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The G210VB accommodates a broad range of textile substrates—including woven, knitted, nonwoven, and coated fabrics—as well as finished garments and seam assemblies. Specimens are placed directly on the viewing surface or secured using non-reflective clamps to maintain consistent orientation relative to the light source and observer position. The unit complies with global textile testing standards including ASTM D1776 (Standard Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles), ISO 105-A02 (Textiles — Tests for Colour Fastness — Grey Scale for Assessing Change in Colour), and AATCC TM150 (Appearance of Seams in Woven and Knit Fabrics). Its optical architecture supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with validated digital imaging systems and audit-trail-enabled software.
Software & Data Management
While the G210VB is a hardware-only visual assessment platform, it is fully compatible with third-party digital grading solutions such as SDL Atlas’s TruColor Imaging System or industry-standard image capture workflows. When integrated with calibrated cameras and spectroradiometric validation tools, the light box enables traceable digital archiving of visual assessments. All associated image metadata—including illuminant ID, exposure parameters, and observer ID—can be embedded per ISO 12234-2 (Electronic still-picture imaging — Metadata) standards. For regulated environments (e.g., ISO 17025-accredited labs), optional software modules provide 21 CFR Part 11–compliant user authentication, electronic signatures, and immutable audit trails for each grading session.
Applications
- Quality control of fabric surface defects (pilling, snagging, shading, barre, and skew) in spinning, weaving, dyeing, and finishing facilities
- Seam appearance evaluation during garment development and production line audits
- Crease recovery and wrinkle resistance grading per ISO 2311 and AATCC TM128
- Color matching verification under standardized lighting for supplier qualification and batch release
- Calibration reference platform for training sensory panels and establishing consensus grading benchmarks
- Supporting sustainability initiatives through objective visual documentation of fabric durability and aesthetic consistency across lifecycle testing
FAQ
What lighting standards does the G210VB support?
It meets ISO 3664:2009 specifications for graphic technology and textile viewing, with primary calibration to D65 (6500 K daylight simulator); optional TL84 or F/A illuminants available upon request.
Can the unit be used for non-textile materials?
Yes—its optical design is applicable to any material requiring controlled visual inspection, including leather, paper, plastics, and composites, provided specimen dimensions fall within the viewing envelope.
Is the light source replaceable in the field?
Yes—the CCFL or LED modules are modular and serviceable with standard tools; replacement kits include photometric recalibration certificates.
Does the G210VB require annual recalibration?
While no active sensor calibration is required, annual photometric verification using a NIST-traceable spectroradiometer is recommended to maintain compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.
What safety certifications does the unit carry?
Certified to UL 61010-1 (Laboratory Equipment), CE (EMC & LVD directives), and RoHS 3 compliance; all electrical components meet Class I insulation and IP20 ingress protection ratings.
