Patent Publication Number: US-11663703-B2

Title: System, method and apparatus for macroscopic inspection of reflective specimens

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/170,260, filed Feb. 8, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/705,674, filed Dec. 6, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,915,992, issued Feb. 9, 2021, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/883,931, filed Aug. 7, 2019, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure generally relates to macroscopic inspection systems, apparatus and methods for imaging reflective specimens. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     When performing macroscopic examination of a specimen (i.e., imaging, in a single field of view, a specimen, or an area of a specimen 200 mm or greater) that is made of reflective material (e.g., glass, mirror, optical lenses, semiconductor wafers, etc.): (1) the reflection of an imaging device positioned above the specimen can reflect off of the specimen and appear in the image captured by the imaging device; and (2) illumination directed at the specimen can reflect off of the specimen and appear as hot spots in the captured image. These imaging artifacts (i.e., the reflection of the imaging device and/or the illumination hot spots) are undesirable. 
       FIG.  1 A  shows an illumination source  16  that provides an illumination space  18  that illuminates specimen S. Imaging device  10  and focusing lens  12  form imaging assembly  13  and define an imaging space  14  that is captured by imaging assembly  13 .  FIG.  1 B  shows an image tile  22  captured by imaging assembly  13 . Within image tile  22  is an image of a specimen  24  and a darkspot  26  at the center. The darkspot can be a result of imaging assembly  13 &#39;s reflection in the image or a shadow from illumination  16 . 
     Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a new mechanism for macroscopic examination of a specimen that eliminates these undesirable imaging artifacts and can provide for multiple modes of illumination including, but not limited to brightfield, darkfield or oblique illumination; polarized light; cross-polarized light; and differential interference contrast (DIC), phase contrast. It is also desirable that each mode of illumination provides variable illumination landscapes, as explained herein, to detect features of a specimen. For purposes of this specification, macroscopic refers to an area approximately 0.5 cm 2  or greater in a single field of view. Specimens as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art refer to an article of examination (e.g., a semiconductor wafer or a biological slide), and features refer to known characteristics of a specimen, as well as abnormalities and/or defects. Features can include but are not limited to: circuits, circuit board components, biological cells, tissue, defects (e.g., scratches, dust, fingerprints). 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     In one example, an inspection apparatus includes a specimen stage that is configured to retain a specimen, one or more imaging devices positioned above the specimen stage to capture images of the specimen, a set of lights on a platform between the specimen stage and the one or more imaging devices, a control system coupled to the specimen stage, the one or more imaging devices, and the platform, where the control system comprises one or more processors; and memory storing executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by the one or more processors, cause the control system to: provide first instructions to the one or more imaging devices to capture a first image of the specimen, the first image comprising a first imaging artifact to a first side of a reference point, provide second instructions to the one or more imaging devices to capture a second image of the specimen, the second image comprising a second imaging artifact to a second side of the reference point; crop the imaging artifact from the first image and the second image, and to digitally stitch together the first image and the second image to generate a composite image of the specimen, the composite image lacking the first imaging artifact and the second imaging artifact. 
     In some examples, the executable instructions further cause the control system to translate the one or more imaging devices in a first direction to a first position above and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image and to translate the one or more imaging devices in a second direction to a second position above and to the second side of the reference point to allow the one or more imaging devices to capture the second image. 
     In some examples, the executable instructions cause the control system to translate the specimen stage in a first direction to a first position under and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image of the specimen and to translate the specimen stage in a second direction to a second position under and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image of the specimen. 
     In some examples, the reference point is positioned along a centerline of the specimen. 
     In some examples, the specimen stage or the one or more imaging devices are moveable along a rotational axis. 
     In some examples, the one or more imaging devices include a first imaging device positioned above and to the first side of the reference point and a second imaging device positioned above and to the second side of the reference point and the inspection apparatus further includes an aperture slider positioned below the first imaging device and the second imaging device, the aperture slider comprising an aperture to allow capture of images of the specimen using either the first imaging device or the second imaging device. 
     In some examples, the executable instructions cause the control system to translate the aperture slider to a first position such that the aperture is aligned with the first imaging device to capture the first image and to translate the aperture slider to a second position such that the aperture is aligned with the second imaging device to capture the second image. 
     In some examples, the executable instructions cause the control system to translate the platform, activate one or more combinations of the set of lights to determine an illumination profile, analyze the first image of the specimen to identify a specimen classification, select, based on the specimen classification, the illumination profile, and adjust the platform and the set of lights according to the illumination profile. 
     In some examples, the inspection apparatus includes a barrier configured to diffuse light reflected from the specimen retained on the specimen stage back onto the specimen. 
     In some examples, the executable instructions cause the control system to compare a first overlap area of the first image to a second overlap area of the second image to determine that a matching image has been identified to allow for digital stitching of the first image and the second image. 
     In one example, a method includes receiving a specimen on a specimen stage of an inspection apparatus, identifying a reference point of the specimen, capturing a first image of the specimen that includes a first imaging artifact to a first side of the reference point, capturing a second image of the specimen that includes a second imaging artifact to a second side of the reference point, evaluating the second image of the specimen to determine that the second image can be used with the first image, cropping the first imaging artifact from the first image and the second imaging artifact from the second image; and digitally stitching together the first image and the second image to generate the composite image of the specimen, the composite image lacking the first imaging artifact and the second imaging artifact. 
     In some examples, the method further includes translating an imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to a first position above and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image, and translating the imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a second direction to a second position above and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     In some examples, the method further includes translating the specimen stage in a first direction to a first position under and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image, and translating the specimen stage to a second position in a second direction to a position under and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     In some examples, the method further includes rotating the specimen stage to a first position to capture the first image, cropping the first image to remove a first portion of the first image that includes the first imaging artifact, rotating the specimen stage to a second position to capture the second image, cropping the second image to remove a second portion of the second image that includes the second imaging artifact, and digitally rotating the second image to initiate evaluation of the second image. 
     In some examples, the method further includes translating an aperture slider of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to position an aperture below a first imaging device of the inspection apparatus to capture the first image, where the first imaging device is positioned above and to the first side of the reference point, and translating the aperture slider of the inspection apparatus in a second direction to position the aperture below a second imaging device of the inspection apparatus to capture the second image, where the second imaging device is positioned above and to the second side of the reference point. 
     In some examples, the method further includes translating a platform of the inspection system, where a set of lights are disposed on the platform, activating one or more combinations of the set of lights to determine an illumination profile, analyzing the first image of the specimen to identify a specimen classification, selecting, based on the specimen classification, the illumination profile, and adjusting the platform and the set of lights according to the illumination profile. 
     In some examples, the method further includes rotating an imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to position the imaging device to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image, and rotating the imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a second direction to position the imaging device to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     In some examples, the method further includes diffusing light reflected from the specimen retained on the specimen stage back onto the specimen. 
     In some examples, the method further includes comparing a first overlap area of the first image to a second overlap area of the second image to determine that a matching image has been identified to allow for digital stitching of the first image and the second image. 
     In some examples, the specimen stage is moveable along an X axis, a Y axis, a Z axis, and a rotational axis. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description of the principles briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments of the disclosure and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting in their scope, the principles herein are described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1 A  shows an illumination source that provides an illumination space that illuminates a specimen; 
         FIG.  1 B  shows an image tile captured by an imaging assembly; 
         FIG.  2    shows an example of a macroscopic (macro) inspection system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  3 A  shows a top view of a light ring assembly according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  3 B  shows a side view of a light ring assembly according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  4 A  shows a cone of illumination resulting from a maximum, unrestricted illumination beam for illumination of a specimen according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  4 B  shows a minimization of a cone of illumination resulting from movement of a light deflector to a first position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  4 C  shows a minimization of a cone of illumination resulting from movement of a light deflector to a second position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  5 A  shows a macro inspection system comprising an imaging translation platform in a first position for capturing a first image of a specimen according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  5 B  shows a macro inspection system comprising an imaging translation platform translated to a second position for capturing a second image of a specimen to create an artifact-free image of the specimen according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  6 A  shows a first image of a specimen captured at a first position using stage translation, imaging assembly platform translation or aperture translation according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  6 B  shows a second image of a specimen captured at a second positing using stage translation, imaging assembly platform translation or aperture translation according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  6 C  shows an artifact-free image of a specimen created by stitching the first image of the specimen and the second image of the specimen according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  7    shows an example imaging method for creating a composite artifact-free image of a specimen by translating an imaging assembly according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  8    shows an example imaging method for creating a composite artifact-free image of a specimen by translating a specimen stage according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  9 A  shows a macro inspection system comprising two imaging assemblies and a translatable aperture slider for capturing a first image of a specimen at a first position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  9 B  shows a macro inspection system comprising two imaging assemblies and a translatable aperture slider for capturing a second image of a specimen at a second position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  10    shows an example imaging method for creating a composite artifact-free image of a specimen using two imaging assemblies and a translatable aperture slider according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  11    shows a macro inspection system comprising a specimen stage and an imaging assembly that either or both can be rotated for creating an artifact-free image according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  12    shows a method for creating a composite artifact-free image of a specimen by rotating a specimen stage of a macro inspection system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 A  shows an example image captured at an initial position of a specimen stage according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 B  shows an example image wherein a portion of the image that includes an imaging artifact is cropped out of the image according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 C  shows an example image captured at a second position via rotation of the specimen stage of a macro inspection system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 D  shows an example image wherein a portion of the image that includes an imaging artifact is cropped out of the image according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 E  shows an example of a cropped image being digitally rotated to an original position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 F  shows an example of a cropped image digitally rotated to an original position according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  13 G  shows a composite artifact-free image of a specimen generated by stitching two cropped images together according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  14    shows an example calibration method for calibrating macro inspection system to achieve different illumination landscapes according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  15 A  shows an example method for illuminating a specimen using a macro system to achieve a desired illumination landscape according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  15 B  shows an example method for identifying a specimen classification and automatically adjusting an illumination landscape of the macro inspection system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG.  16    shows the general configuration of an embodiment of computer analysis system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; and 
         FIG.  17    shows an example of using training data to train one or more artificial intelligence algorithms that can be used on a received specimen scan to create one or more illumination profiles for each received specimen image according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, mechanisms (which can include systems, methods, devices, apparatuses, etc.) for macroscopic examination of reflective specimens are provided. Macroscopic examination (sometimes referred to as inspection) refers to scanning, imaging, analyzing, measuring and any other suitable review of a specimen using the disclosed macroscopic inspection mechanism. The disclosed macroscopic inspection mechanism includes one or more modes of illumination that can each provide variable illumination landscapes, as described herein. Although the following description refers to components and methods implemented in a macroscopic inspection mechanism, the components and methods described herein can also be implemented in a microscope inspection system. 
       FIG.  2    illustrates an example of a macroscopic (macro) inspection system  100  according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. At a high level, the basic components of macro inspection system  100 , according to some embodiments, include an illumination assembly (e.g., light ring assembly  80 ) for providing light to a specimen S, a focusing lens  34 , an imaging device  32 , a specimen stage  50 , a control system  70  comprising hardware (e.g., one or more processors configured to perform operations described herein, etc.), software, and/or firmware and a computer analysis system  75 . Macro inspection system  100  can be implemented as part of an optical inspection system that uses transmitted or reflected light. 
     In some embodiments, as shown in  FIGS.  2 ,  3 A and  3 B , a light ring assembly  80  can be used as an illumination assembly for macro inspection system  100  to provide light to a specimen (as represented by illumination space  90 ). One or more individual lights (e.g., LED lights L1 to Ln) can be mounted to light ring assembly  80 . Individual lights L1 to Ln can be based on any type of suitable lighting technology, including but not limited to: light emitting diode (LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), fluorescent, halogen, incandescent, fiber optic, gas-plasma, cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), laser, etc. Each light can be individually addressed. In further embodiments, the individual lights can be divided into sections (e.g., by position on the light ring assembly, such as front, back, right, left), and each section can be addressable. Software, hardware and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ) can control the activation, intensity and/or color of each light or section by its address. For instance, the control system  70  an comprise one or more processors and memory that stores instructions that, as a result of being executed by the one or more processors, cause the control system  70  to perform the operations described herein. In some instances, the control system  70  is implemented as an application or as a stand-alone computer system that performs the operations described herein. Activation refers to the turning on of a light, intensity refers to the rate at which light energy is delivered to a unit of surface, and color refers to an RGB (red, green, blue) color value, for example, where each color value is specified as an integer from 0 to 255 based on 8-bit color, for example. Intensity can be determined by light meters, image sensors and/or other suitable intensity measurement devices. Plurality of lights L1 to Ln can be comprised of lights that project monochromatic, polychromatic and/or any combination thereof. 
     Each light L1 to Ln can provide oblique lighting at different angles of incidence, from multiple directions, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Three methods for varying the angles of illumination, as described herein, include: (1) changing the angle of a light mounted to light ring assembly  80 ; (2) raising or lowering light ring assembly  80  in a z direction; and/or (3) positioning a light deflector such that part of the illumination beam from a light is blocked. 
     In one embodiment, each light can be mounted to light ring assembly  80  at a desired angle relative to the specimen plane of a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . In further embodiments, each light&#39;s angle can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). A light&#39;s angle can be controlled individually or concurrently with one or more other lights. Each light can be angled the same or different amounts. 
     In some embodiments, light ring assembly  80  can be configured so that it is movable along guiderails  48  of macro inspection system  100 . In one example, light ring assembly  80  can be attached to guiderails  48  with support rods  81   a  and  81   b  and bearings  82   a  and  82   b  (as shown in  FIG.  3 A ). Note, that the illumination assembly is not limited to a ring formation. For example, other types of light formations are possible as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/262,017 entitled “Macro Inspection Systems, Apparatus and Methods,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Further, the movement of light ring assembly  80  to different positions along the height of the guiderails  48  can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). Depending on its height in relation to specimen stage  50 , light ring assembly  80  can be used to provide oblique or darkfield illumination to a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . For example, to provide variable angles of oblique illumination, light ring assembly  80  can be positioned so that its light can be projected at different heights above a specimen plane (i.e., the top planar surface of a specimen when positioned on specimen stage  50 ). In some embodiments, the specimen plane corresponds with a focal plane of macro inspection system  100  (i.e., the plane where the specimen is in focus). In further examples, to provide darkfield illumination, light ring assembly  80  can be positioned so that its light can be projected at the same, or substantially the same, level of the specimen plane of a specimen on specimen stage  50  to provide darkfield illumination to a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . 
     As used herein: oblique illumination refers to light projected toward the specimen at an angle of incidence less than 90 degrees and greater than 0 degrees, typically greater than 1 degrees; darkfield illumination refers to light projected toward the specimen at an angle of incidence less than 1 degrees and typically 0 degrees; and brightfield illumination refers to light projected toward the specimen at an angle of incidence perpendicular (90 degrees) to the plane of the specimen. Brightfield illumination can refer to a light source that provides illumination through lens  34 . 
     Depending on its distance (d) in relation to specimen stage  50 , light ring assembly  80  can be used to provide oblique or darkfield illumination to a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . Providing oblique and darkfield lighting is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/262,017 entitled “Macro Inspection Systems, Apparatus and Methods,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In some embodiments, light ring assembly  80  can be positioned so that illumination from the assembly is substantially parallel to a specimen plane to provide darkfield illumination to a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . Substantially parallel is to be understood as having an angle of incidence from −1° to +1°, to allow for imperfections in alignment, but in some embodiments, the illumination will be on plane, i.e., at a d of 0, whereby illumination will be reflected only if there are features extending off of a perfectly flat planar surface of a specimen. If a specimen is perfectly flat and featureless, then it would not reflect any of the substantially parallel illumination to lens  34 , and such a specimen viewed by lens  34  will not be illuminated. If there are protruding imperfections or other features, then the illumination from light ring assembly  80  will reflect off of such imperfections and/or features and will be captured by imaging device  32  via lens  34 . If its distance from specimen stage  50  is greater than 0, then light ring assembly  80  can be used to provide oblique illumination to a specimen when retained on specimen stage  50 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , light deflector  83  can be used for adjusting the cone of illumination for each light Li. Each light Li can be mounted at an angle α from light ring assembly  80 . Light ring assembly  80  can be positioned perpendicular to specimen stage  50 , and lights can be mounted at an angle α from 0 to 90 degrees, typically between 0 to 60 degrees (e.g., 10 degrees). A typical LED light can have a cone of illumination of approximately 120 degrees. The cone of illumination is represented by any two vectors a, b, c, d, e, f and g. Vectors a and g represent the maximum, unrestricted illumination beam as seen in  FIG.  4 A . The cone of illumination of the unrestricted light is represented by θ1. As shown, for example, in  FIGS.  4 B and  4 C , light deflector  83  can be positioned over the lights, to minimize the cone of illumination.  FIG.  4 B  shows light deflector  83  moved to a first position to block vector a (represented by a dotted line) and allow light vectors b through g to continue. The cone of illumination of this restricted light is represented by θ2, and has a smaller cone than θ1.  FIG.  4 C  shows light deflector  83  moved to a second position, blocking vectors a, b and c (represented by dotted lines) and allowing vectors d, e, f and g to continue. The cone of illumination of this restricted light is θ3, and its cone of illumination is smaller than both θ1 and θ2. α and θ can be adjusted to provide an angle of illumination that illuminates the specimen to show specific specimen features. For example, higher angles of illumination are generally better for defining edges, while lower angles of illumination are generally better for defining bumps. In some embodiments, a single light deflector is used to control the cone of illumination for all the lights, and in other embodiments, individual light deflectors can be used to control the cone of illumination for each light. The cone of illumination for each light can be the same or different. 
     While deflector  83 , as shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , is lowered from top to bottom, it can also be configured to move from bottom to top, or in both directions. Regardless of the features that are being examined, deflector  83  can be positioned to prevent light from being directed to the imaging device and causing imaging artifacts in captured images. In some embodiments, deflector  83  can be positioned to direct light only to a specimen. In embodiments where a dome is included in macro inspection system  100 , deflector  83  can be adjusted to deflect light to the dome, to the specimen, and/or to the dome and the specimen. Single or individual light deflectors  83  can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). Adjustor screw  86 , as shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , is one example of a mechanism that can be used to adjust light deflector  83 . 
     In some embodiments, an XYZθ translation stage can be used for specimen stage  50 . Specimen stage  50  can be driven by stepper motor, server motor, linear motor, piezo motor, and/or any other suitable mechanism, including a manual mechanism. Specimen stage  50  can be configured to move an object in the X axis, Y axis, Z axis and/or θ directions manually and/or under the control of any suitable controller (e.g., control system  70 ). An actuator (e.g. actuator  39 ) can be used to make coarse focus adjustments of, for example, 0 to 5 mm, 0 to 10 mm, 0 to 30 mm, and/or any other suitable range(s) of distances. An actuator can also be used in some embodiments to provide fine focus of, for example, 0 to 50 μm, 0 to 100 μm, 0 to 200 and/or any other suitable range(s) of distances. A person of skill in the art would understand that XYZθ translation stage is just an example, and other suitable stages can be used (e.g., an XYZ translation stage, a θ translation stage, a Z translation stage). 
     In some embodiments, lens  34  and imaging device  32 , which together form imaging assembly  33 , can be supported on a translation assembly above specimen stage  50 . Translation assembly includes imaging translation platform  44 , which can be configured to move imaging assembly  33  in the X axis, Y axis and/or θ directions manually and/or under the control of any suitable controller (e.g., control system  70 ). Upper support frame  46  can also include limits (e.g, left and right limits  43   a  and  43   b ) and/or encoder  45  for aligning imaging translation platform  44 . The limits can be physical stops or switches (optical, mechanical, electronic or other) to indicate proper alignment of imaging translation platform  44 . The switches can be controlled by control system  70  to only allow images to be taken when imaging translation platform  44  is in a particular alignment or to automatically capture images when the limit switches are activated (e.g., by positioning imaging translation platform  44  within limits  43   a  and  43   b ). Encoder  45  can be used to more precisely indicate the position of platform  44 , and can be used to only allow imaging or to automatically trigger imaging when platform  44  is at a particular position. In some embodiments, upper support frame  46  can be configured so that it is movable along guiderails  48  in the Z axis direction. To adjust focus, upper support frame  46  can be lowered or raised, bringing imaging assembly  33 , which is coupled to support frame  46 , closer to or farther apart from specimen stage  50 . Further, the movement of upper support frame  46  to different positions along the height of the guiderails  48  can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). In other embodiments, the imaging device can be mounted directly to upper support frame  46 , and be translatable in the X axis, Y axis, Z axis and/or θ directions in a similar manner. 
     Lens  34  can have different magnification powers, and/or be configured to operate with brightfield, darkfield or oblique illumination, polarized light, cross-polarized light, differential interference contrast (DIC), phase contrast and/or any other suitable form of illumination. The type of lens used for macro inspection system  100  can be based on desired characteristics, for example, field of view, numerical aperture, among others. In some embodiments, lens  34  can be a macro lens that can be used to view a specimen within a single field of view. Note, the term field of view as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art refers to an area of examination that is captured at once by an image sensor. 
     The illumination of a specimen on specimen stage  50  reflects up to lens  34  mounted to an imaging device  32  (e.g., a camera), and imaging device  32  can capture images and/or video of a specimen in imaging space  92 . In some embodiments, imaging device  32  can be a rotatable camera that includes an image sensor, configured to allow the camera to be aligned to a specimen, a stage and/or a feature on a specimen. The image sensor can be, for example, a charged-coupled device (CCD), a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, and/or any other suitable electronic device that converts light into one or more electrical signals. Such electrical signals can be used to form images and/or video of an object. In some embodiments, such electrical signals are transmitted for display on a display screen connected to macro inspection system  100 . Some example methods for rotating a camera that can be used by macro inspection system  100  are described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,048,477 entitled “Camera and Object Alignment to Facilitate Large Area Imaging in Microscopy,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     In some embodiments, macro inspection system  100  can include a barrier, for example dome  42 , as shown in  FIG.  2   , configured to reflect light that is reflected from the specimen back toward the specimen. Dome  42  diffuses the light that it reflects back to the specimen to provide a more uniform illumination field. Although a dome-shaped barrier is shown, other shaped barriers, including: sphere, cone, cube or any three dimensional poly-sided shape such as a rhombohedron, can be used to provide different angles of diffusion. In some embodiments, a light diffuser is formed in the shape of a dome or other shaped barrier, and in other embodiments, the dome, or other barrier, can be any material, but painted with light diffusing paint. Dome  42  can be coupled to imaging assembly  33 , so that when imaging assembly  33  is moved, dome  42  moves along with it. 
     A single light or multiple lights can be activated to illuminate a portion or an entire field of view at the specimen plane. The type of specimen being examined, the type of feature being examined, a region of interest on a specimen, and/or any other suitable criteria, can determine which lights are activated and at what color and/or intensity. Further, software, hardware and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ) can control the angle of each individual light or concurrently with one or more other lights. In some embodiments, the angles can be changed manually. Each light can be angled the same or different amounts. In some embodiments, light is not directed at dome  42 , but at the specimen, and is reflected off of dome  42  back to the specimen in a more diffuse manner. 
     Each individual light can individually or together emit a vector of light to illuminate a particular area on the specimen plane)“area of illumination”(. The magnitude of this area of illumination can vary from illuminating a portion of the specimen to encompassing the entire specimen plane. The area of illumination can be calculated at different axial locations above, below or on the specimen plane (e.g., at the top of specimen stage  50 , at the top of the specimen plane, at the focal plane, etc.) along the beam of light represented by the vectors. The areas covered by each vector of light can either be overlapping in part with the areas covered by the vector of light emitted from a neighboring light bar or not overlapping at all. In some embodiments, one or more focusing lenses and/or collimating lenses can be used to focus the area of each light vector to a region suitable for a specimen on specimen stage  50 . 
     In some embodiments, a single illumination vector ranges from 1 degree or more to 180 degrees or less (60 or more to 10,800 or less minutes of arc). In other embodiments, a single illumination vector ranges from 45 degrees or more to 120 degrees or less (2,700 or more to 7,200 or less minutes of arc), in other embodiments, from 30 degrees or more to 45 degrees or less (1,800 or more to 2,700 or less minutes of arc), in other embodiments, from 10 degrees or more to 30 degrees or less (600 or more to 1,800 or less minutes of arc), in other embodiments, from 5 degrees or more to 10 degrees or less (300 or more to 600 or less minutes of arc), and, in other embodiments, from 2 degrees or more to 5 degrees or less (120 or more to 300 or less minutes of arc). The vector depends upon the number and position of activated lights of light assembly ring  80  relative to the position of the specimen. 
     Light ring assembly  80  can vary as to the number of lights, the size of each individual light, the cone angle of each individual light, the pitch (p) between lights and the distance between the lights and the area where the light is projected. In some embodiments, the size of specimen stage  50 , the specifications of lens  34 , the size and/or type of specimen being inspected, and/or the features of a specimen that are being examined, can determine the configuration of lights on light assembly ring  80 , including, for example, the arrangement of lights (whether in a ring or in other arrangements), the total number of lights, the distance, and/or the pitch (p). 
     As should be generally appreciated from the examples of illumination in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , the various embodiments of the present invention allow for darkfield illumination, illumination at variable oblique angles and brightfield illumination. 
     In some embodiments, control system  70  includes a controller and controller interface, and can control any settings of macro inspection system  100  (e.g., intensity of lights, color of lights, turning on and off one or more lights, pivoting or other movement of one or more lights (e.g., changing a light&#39;s angle), movement of light ring assembly  80  (e.g., in a z direction), movement of imaging platform  44 ; movement of specimen stage  50  or  150  (in x, y, θ, and/or z directions), movement of lens  34  (in x, y, θ, and/or z directions), movement of imaging translation platform  44 , recording of image data by imaging assembly  33 , rotation or movement of imaging assembly  33 , processing of illumination data, processing of image data). Control system  70  and applicable computing systems and components described herein can include any suitable hardware (which can execute software in some embodiments), such as, for example, computers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and digital signal processors (DSPs) (any of which can be referred to as a hardware processor), encoders, circuitry to read encoders, memory devices (including one or more EPROMS, one or more EEPROMs, dynamic random access memory)“DRAM”(, static random access memory)“SRAM”(, and/or flash memory), and/or any other suitable hardware elements. In some embodiments, individual components within macro inspection system  100  can include their own software, firmware, and/or hardware to control the individual components and communicate with other components in macro inspection system  100 . 
     In some embodiments, communication between the control system (e.g., the controller and controller interface) and the components of macro inspection system  100  can use any suitable communication technologies, such as analog technologies (e.g., relay logic), digital technologies (e.g., RS232, ethernet, or wireless), network technologies (e.g., local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, Bluetooth technologies, Near-field communication technologies, Secure RF technologies, and/or any other suitable communication technologies. 
     In some embodiments, operator inputs can be communicated to control system  70  using any suitable input device (e.g., keyboard, mouse, joystick, touch). 
     In some embodiments, control system  70  controls the activation, intensity and/or color of one or more of the plurality of lights, as well as the position of lights L1 to Ln and/or light ring assembly  80  (e.g., by adjusting the light ring assembly&#39;s height, or by pivoting a light) to provide for variable illumination landscapes on a specimen when it is placed on specimen stage  50 . Illumination landscape refers to the color and/or intensity of light on a region of interest of a specimen as a result of the activation and distribution of light from the one or more of the plurality of lights that is directed towards a specimen. The illumination landscape can affect the image viewed through lens  34  and/or images captured by imaging device  32 . Control system  70  can control the intensity of one or more of the plurality of lights to provide a desired illumination landscape on a specimen plane and/or specimen stage  50 . For example, control system  70  can control the intensity of one or more of the plurality of lights to provide an illumination landscape of uniform intensity on a specimen plane and/or specimen stage  50 . The type of illumination landscape provided can be determined by the specimen type, mechanical and/or physical properties of a specimen (e.g., specimen size, specimen reflectivity), a specimen feature being examined, a particular stage of a manufacturing and/or examining process, or some other suitable variable, individually or in any combination thereof. 
     In some embodiments, computer analysis system  75  can be coupled to, or included in, macro inspection system  100  in any suitable manner using any suitable communication technology, such as analog technologies (e.g., relay logic), digital technologies (e.g., RS232, ethernet, or wireless), network technologies (e.g., local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet) Bluetooth technologies, Near-field communication technologies, Secure RF technologies, and/or any other suitable communication technologies. Computer analysis system  75 , and the modules within computer analysis system  75 , can be configured to perform a number of functions described further herein using images output by macro inspection system  100  and/or stored by computer readable media. 
     Computer analysis system  75  can include any suitable hardware (which can execute software in some embodiments), such as, for example, computers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and digital signal processors (DSPs) (any of which can be referred to as a hardware processor), encoders, circuitry to read encoders, memory devices (including one or more EPROMS, one or more EEPROMs, dynamic random access memory (“DRAM”), static random access memory (“SRAM”), and/or flash memory), and/or any other suitable hardware elements. 
     It should be noted that while the control system  70  and the computer analysis system  75  are illustrated in  FIG.  2    as being separate components of the macro inspection system  100 , other implementations of the control system  70  and the computer analysis system  75  are within the scope of the present disclosure. For instance, in an embodiment, the computer analysis system  75  is implemented as an application or other executable process of the control system  70 . Further, while the computer analysis system  75  is illustrated as being a component of the macro inspection system  100 , the computer analysis system  75  can be implemented as a separate system accessed over a communications network, such as the Internet or other network. 
     Computer-readable media can be any non-transitory media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media can comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital video disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer. 
       FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , along with  FIGS.  6 A- 6 C , show embodiments of macro inspection system  100  and an imaging method for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by translating imaging translation platform  44  to the right and left of a specimen centerline A2, when placed on stage  50 . By translating imaging translation platform  44 , optical centerline A1 of imaging assembly  33  can be offset from the centerline of a specimen A2 that is placed on stage  50 . The offset amount must be sufficient, so that the entire imaging artifact, or the entire imaging artifact and some additional space, will appear in a captured image on one side of specimen centerline A2 (e.g., as shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B ). Note, the size of the offset of A1 of the image assembly from centerline A2 (so that at least the entire artifact appears on one side of centerline A2) is typically equal to the size of the artifact as it appears in the captured image. 
     All references to moving or translating imaging assembly  33  in this application refers to moving or translating imaging assembly  33  via a translation mechanism (e.g., imaging translation platform  44 ). Also the figures herein refer to using a centerline A1 or A2, there are just example reference points, other reference points can be used to capture article-free images. 
       FIGS.  6 A,  6 B and  6 C  show images that can be captured under three different modes: stage translation, imaging assembly platform translation or aperture translation. 
     Artifact-free as used herein refers to an image that does not include the reflection of an imaging assembly and/or illumination hot spots. Note, embodiments of macro inspection system  100 , as shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , do not show imaging space  92 , or illumination space  90 , but the concepts of imaging and illumination spaces as shown in  FIG.  2    apply to all embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , imaging translation platform can be translated between two positions: to the right and to the left of specimen centerline A2. In  FIG.  5 A , imaging translation platform  44  is positioned to the left of centerline A2, so that when imaging assembly  33  captures an image of a specimen at that position, an imaging artifact from the reflection of imaging assembly  33  does not appear to the right of centerline A2.  FIG.  6 A  illustrates an example image  105  that can be captured when imaging assembly is positioned to the left of centerline A2 (as shown in  FIG.  5 A ). As captured in image  105 , specimen features X1 and X2 appear on the left and right sides of the centerline A2. Imaging artifact  26 , representing the reflection of the imaging assembly captured in the image, appears on the left side (i.e., the same side that imaging assembly  33  was positioned when the image was captured). The portion of the image that is artifact-free is indicated by bounding box  114  (coincident with lines R1 on the right and R2 on the left). 
     In  FIG.  5 B , imaging translation platform  44  is positioned on the opposite side, to the right of centerline A2, so that when imaging assembly  33  captures an image of the specimen at that position, an imaging artifact from the reflection of imaging assembly  33  does not appear to the left of centerline A2.  FIG.  6 B  illustrates an example image  106  that can be captured when imaging assembly is positioned to the right of centerline A2 (as shown in  FIG.  5 B ). Imaging artifact  26  appears on the right side of image  106  (i.e., the same side that imaging assembly  33  was positioned when the image was captured). The portion of the image that is artifact-free is indicated by bounding box  114  (coincident with lines R3 on the right and R4 on the left). 
       FIG.  7    shows an example imaging method  700  for creating a composite artifact-free image of a specimen using embodiments of macro inspection system  100 , as shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B . 
     At  710 , macro inspection system  100  can be initialized by adjusting the parameters that are specific to the macro inspection tool, and not to the specimen being examined. Such parameters can include, but are not limited to, focus, magnification, DIC prism, field of view. Focus of inspection system  100  can be calibrated by using a sample specimen to determine a suitable distance between imaging assembly  33  and specimen stage  50 , and moving imaging assembly  33  or specimen stage  50 , or both, farther apart or closer together until the desired focus is achieved. Focus can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). The positions of imaging assembly  33  and stage  50 , and the distance between them that are used at initialization can be stored in local or remote memory. A reference specimen, representing a specimen or a specimen classification group can also be used to set parameters specific to the specimen being examined. A specimen can be grouped by specimen type, by similar mechanical and/or physical specimen properties (e.g., similar reflectivity properties, similar size dimensions), by feature type, by manufacturing process and/or examination step, by region of interest and/or any other suitable classification group. Parameters specific to the specimen being examined can include magnification, focus, adjusting light exposure, adjusting illumination (e.g., activating selected lights and adjusting the light&#39;s intensity level, color and/or angle of incidence of each selected light). Note, focus can be adjusted by changing the distance between the specimen and imaging assembly  33 , e.g., by mechanism  39  that moves stage  50  in a z direction or by raising or lowering imaging assembly  33  in a z direction. Exposure can be set by adjusting the camera setting including exposure time, gain, offset, among others. The initial parameters for a specimen can be stored in local or remote memory. Example methods for adjusting illumination, include image processing, is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/262,017 entitled “Macro Inspection Systems, Apparatus and Methods,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     At  720 , imaging assembly  33  can be translated either to the right or left of centerline A2, an amount equal to or greater than the size of the artifact appearing in a captured imaged, and a reference image can be captured. As shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B , imaging artifact  26  appears in the reference image at the same side of centerline A2 as the position of imaging assembly  33  when it captured the reference image. The portion of the reference image on the opposite side of centerline A2 to imaging assembly  33  will be artifact-free. In some embodiments, imaging assembly  33  can be positioned far enough to the right or far enough to the left of centerline A2, so that in the captured image, imaging artifact  26  does not appear exactly at centerline A2, but there is additional space (L and R, respectively, of overlap  118 , as shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B ) between the imaging artifact and the centerline A2. Before capturing a reference image, a specimen can be aligned on stage  50 , and imaging assembly  33  positioned in relation to stage  50 , so that predetermined edges of a specimen or certain features of a specimen (individually or collectively, “specimen overlap feature”) fall within an image overlap area  118  when an image of the specimen is captured by imaging assembly  33 . The overlap area refers to a predetermined number of pixels (e.g., 1-10 pixels) in the same x, y location of an image captured by imaging assembly  33  when positioned on either side of centerline A2. The shaded areas of bounding box  114  (as shown in  FIG.  6 A ) for image  105  and bounding box  115  (as shown in  FIG.  6 B ) for image  106  represent an artifact-free area that is the same (or overlapping) in images captured by an imaging assembly when positioned to the right or the left of centerline A2. The overlapping areas of a reference image and a second image can be used to compare the two images and to select a second image that is most similar to the reference image with respect to magnification, focus and/or exposure. The reference image and the image selected to be most similar can be digitally stitched (also referred to as “stitched” or “stitching”) together to form a composite artifact-free image of the specimen (e.g., image  120  as shown in  FIG.  6 C ). As shown in  FIG.  6 C , A3 is a line selected in the overlap area. 
     At  730 , imaging assembly  33  is translated to the other side of centerline A2, opposite to its position at step  720 . In some embodiments, imaging assembly  33  is positioned far enough, to create additional space between imaging artifact  26  and centerline A2 (e.g., R or L of image overlap area  118 ). 
     At  740 , once imaging assembly  33  is properly aligned, imaging assembly  33  captures an image of the specimen that includes an imaging artifact on the same side of centerline A2 as the position of imaging assembly  33  when capturing the image, and the image is artifact-free on the opposite side of the centerline. The overlap area  118  of the captured image can be compared to the overlap area of the reference image, and changes can be made to the focus, exposure, illumination and/or other parameters, so that the focus, exposure, illumination and/or other parameters of the reference image and the captured images are the same, or substantially similar. The comparison of overlap areas  118  can be performed manually or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., by control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75 ). Imaging assembly  33  can continue to capture images of a specimen until it is determined that a captured image matches the focus, exposure, illumination and/or other parameters of the reference image (the “matching image”). The portions of the reference image and the matching image that include the imaging artifacts can be cropped out of the images, so that the remaining portions are artifact-free (e.g., the area bounded by R1 and R2 in  FIG.  6 A , and the area bounded by R3 and R4 in  FIG.  6 B ). 
     At  750 , an artifact-free portion of the matching image can be stitched together with an artifact-free portion of the reference image to form a composite artifact-free image of the specimen (e.g., image  120 , as shown in  FIG.  6 C ) Stitching can be performed by aligning the specimen overlap feature that appears in overlap area  118  of the reference image with the specimen overlap feature that appears in overlap area  118  of the matching image. Control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75  can compare the overlapping areas of each image and digitally adjust the positions of the images so that the specimen overlap features are aligned. In other embodiments, where a specimen and imaging assembly  33  have been precisely aligned so that the overlapping areas of the captured images include the same features, stitching can be based on the exact location (e.g., the x/y coordinates) of the overlap area. In some embodiments, the artifact-free portions of the reference image and the matching image can be stitched together directly, without using any overlapping areas for alignment. 
     In another embodiment, imaging assembly  33  can remain fixed and specimen stage (i.e., centerline A2) can be translated to the left or right of imaging assembly  33  (i.e., optical centerline A1) an offset amount greater than or equal to the size of the artifact as discussed above.  FIG.  8    shows an example imaging method  800  for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by translating specimen stage  50 . 
     Similar to the method described in connection with  FIG.  7   , the same process can be repeated (e.g., step  810  (initialize parameters for macro inspection tool and specimen being examined); step  840  (compare the reference image and a second image; if the images do not match, then make suitable adjustments to macro inspection system  100  until a matching image is captured) and  850  (crop out the portions of the matching image and the reference image that include the imaging artifacts and stitch together the artifact-free images)), except imaging assembly  33  remains fixed, and stage  50  is moved to the right or left of optical centerline A1 to capture images of a specimen on each side of the optical centerline (steps  820  and  830 ). Further, similar to the method described in connection with  FIG.  7   , steps  840  and  850  can be performed by the control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75 . 
       FIGS.  9 A and  9 B , along with  FIG.  10   , show embodiments of macro inspection system  100  and an imaging method for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by using two imaging assemblies  68  and  69  and a translatable aperture slider  65 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B , macro inspection system  100  can include: (i) two imaging assemblies  68  and  69 , which are positioned, so that their optical centerlines B1 and B2 respectively, are offset from and on opposite sides of centerline A2; and (ii) a translatable aperture slider  65  having a single opening, aperture  66 . The offset amount must be sufficient, so that the entire imaging artifact, or the entire imaging artifact and some additional space, will appear in a captured image on one side of specimen centerline A2 (i.e., on the same side as the imaging assembly taking the image). 
     In this configuration, the imaging assemblies and the specimen stage remain fixed, while aperture slider  65  can be translated in a linear motion to position aperture  66  beneath one imaging assembly ( 68  or  69 ) at a time. In  FIG.  9 A , aperture slider  65  is translated along aperture slider guide rails  67  so that aperture  66  is positioned beneath imaging assembly  68  (to the left of A2), and a portion of the remaining aperture slider  65  blocks imaging assembly  69  from being reflected in an image of a specimen captured by imaging assembly  68 . Likewise, when aperture slider  65  is translated so that aperture  66  is positioned beneath imaging assembly  69  to the right of A2 (as shown in  FIG.  9 B ), the remaining portion of aperture slider  65  blocks imaging assembly  68 , so that imaging assembly  68  is not reflected in an image captured by imaging assembly  69 . Aperture slider  65  can be controlled manually, or automatically by software, hardware, and/or firmware (e.g., control system  70 ). Further, aperture slider  65  can be designed to have the smallest possible diameter without obstructing the imaging field of either imaging assembly. In additional embodiments, a dome  42  can be coupled to aperture slider  65  and positioned with aperture  66  to diffuse the light reflected from the specimen. 
     Note, aperture slider  65  can be made of metal, plastic or other material that maintains its shape. In some embodiments, slider  65  is as thin as possible (typically one to five millimeters), so as not to interfere with imaging space  92 . If a dome is not attached, slider  65  can be either a reflective material or a light absorbing material to prevent light from being reflected. Aperture  66  can be an unobstructed opening or fitted with a lens. 
     The image  105 , as illustrated in  FIG.  6 A , can be captured when aperture  66  is positioned beneath imaging assembly  68  located to the left of centerline A2 (as shown in  FIG.  9 A ). Imaging artifact  26  appears on the left side (i.e., the same side where aperture  66  was positioned when the image was captured). In contrast, the image  106 , as illustrated in  FIG.  6 B , can be captured when aperture  66  is positioned beneath imaging assembly  69  located to the right of centerline A2 (as shown in  FIG.  9 B ). Imaging artifact  26  appears on the right side (i.e., the same side where aperture  66  was positioned when the image was captured). 
       FIG.  10    shows an example imaging method  1000  for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by translating an aperture slider using embodiments of macro inspection  100  shown in  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B . 
     Similar to the method described in connection with  FIG.  7   , the same process can be repeated (e.g., step  1010  (initialize parameters for macro inspection tool and specimen being examined); step  1040  (compare the reference image and a second image, and make adjustments to macro inspection system  100  until a matching image is found) and  1050  (crop out the portions of the matching image and the reference image that include the imaging artifacts and stitch together the matching images)), but instead of moving an imaging assembly or a specimen stage to opposite sides of centerline A2, an aperture on a slider is positioned, in turn, beneath each imaging assembly (e.g., steps  1020  and  1030 ) to capture images of a specimen and stitch them together into a composite artifact-free image of the specimen. Further, similar to the method described in connection with  FIG.  7   , steps  1040  and  1050  can be performed by the control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75 . 
       FIG.  11   , along with  FIG.  12   , show embodiments of macro inspection system  100  and an imaging method for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by rotating a specimen stage  150  and/or an imaging translation platform  151  of the macro inspection system  100 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  11   , imaging assembly  33  and dome  42  (if included) can be offset from stage  150  (also known as a θ stage) so that the centerline of a specimen when placed on the stage is to the right (or to the left) of optical centerline A1. The offset amount must be sufficient, so that the entire imaging artifact, or the entire imaging artifact and some additional space, will appear in a captured image on one side of specimen centerline A2 (i.e., on the same side as the imaging assembly taking the image). Instead of translating imaging assembly  33  or stage  150  laterally (as shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B ), either specimen stage  150  or imaging translation platform  151  can be rotated around the center of rotation, which is located at A2. Note, the center of rotation does not have to be aligned with the specimen centerline. 
       FIG.  12    shows an example imaging method  1200  for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by rotating a specimen stage using embodiments of macro inspection  100  shown in  FIG.  11   . 
     At  1210 , similar to the method described in connection with  FIG.  7   , the parameters for macro inspection system  100  and specimen specific parameters are initialized. 
     At  1220 , an image is captured at an initial position of rotating specimen stage  150 .  FIG.  13 A  shows an example image  160  that can be captured when specimen stage  150  (as shown in  FIG.  11   ) is at an initial position. Image  160  shows a specimen having a feature X1 on the top right and a feature X2 on the bottom left. Artifact  26  appears on the left-hand portion of the image. Bounding box  162  indicates the portion of the image that does not include imaging artifact  26 . Line A2 indicates the centerline of a specimen. Line A2 can also be used to vertically align the artifact-free images of a specimen to be stitched together. 
     At  1230 , the portion of the image that includes imaging artifact  26  can be cropped out of the image (as shown in  FIG.  13 B ), leaving only the portion of the image within bounding box  162 , representing the right side of a specimen. Note, that that the portion of the specimen containing feature X2 is within bounding box  162 , and bounding box  162  also incorporates area on each side of specimen centerline A2 to create an overlap area that can be used for alignment and stitching an entire image together. Step  1230 , in some examples, is performed by control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75 . 
     At  1240 , the stage can be rotated 180°, or other suitable amount, in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, from a first position to a second position. An image of the specimen can be captured in this second position. An example image is shown in  FIG.  13 C . Note, that since the specimen was rotated, features X1 and X2 now appear on opposite sides to their original positions, as captured in image  160 , shown in  FIG.  13 A . Bounding box  164  indicates the portion of the specimen within the image that does not show imaging artifact  26 . Note, that the position of the specimen containing feature X1 is within the bounding box and that the bounding box incorporates area on each side of specimen centerline A2 to create an overlap area. Note, specimen stage  150  can be rotated an amount other than 180°, as long as the rotation is sufficient to capture two images that when stitched together will recreate the specimen without including imaging artifact  26 . 
     At  1250 , the portion of the image that includes imaging artifact  26  is cropped out of the image (as shown in  FIG.  13 D ), leaving only the portion of the image within bounding box  164 , representing the left-hand portion of the specimen, or the portion of the specimen that includes feature X1. 
     At  1260 , as shown in  FIGS.  13 E- 13 F , cropped image  164  can be digitally rotated so that feature X1 appears in its original position (on the bottom left). As described in connection with  FIG.  7   , the overlapping areas of two images can be compared. If the images do not match, then the focus, exposure, illumination and/or other parameters of macro inspection system  100  can be adjusted and new images captured until a matching pair of images are found. 
     Once matching images are found, cropped image  164  can be stitched together with cropped image  162 , as shown in  FIG.  13 G , to create a composite image of the specimen without imaging artifact  26  (step  1270 ). In some examples, steps  1250 ,  1260 , and  1270  are performed by control system  70  and/or computer analysis system  75 . 
     Note, although  FIG.  12    describes a method for creating an artifact-free image of a specimen by rotating a specimen stage, an artifact-free image of a specimen can also be created by carrying out a similar process, but rotating an imaging assembly, instead of a specimen stage. 
     Note, the methods described herein for inspection of reflective specimens is not limited to macroscope inspection systems and can also be implemented in microscope inspection systems. 
       FIG.  14    shows at a high level, an example calibration method  1400  for calibrating macro inspection system to achieve different illumination landscapes, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Illumination landscape refers to the color and/or intensity of light on a region of interest of a specimen as a result of the activation and distribution of light from the one or more of the plurality of lights L1 to Ln that is directed towards a specimen. The illumination landscape can affect the image captured by imaging assembly  33 . Control system  70  can control the intensity of one or more of the plurality of lights L1 to Ln to provide a desired illumination landscape on a specimen plane and/or specimen stage. For example, control system  70  can control the intensity of one or more of the plurality of lights L1 to Ln to provide an illumination landscape of uniform intensity on a specimen plane and/or specimen stage. The type of illumination landscape provided can be determined by the specimen type, mechanical and/or physical properties of a specimen (e.g., specimen size, specimen reflectivity), a specimen feature being examined, a particular stage of a manufacturing and/or examining process, or some other suitable variable, individually or in any combination thereof. In some embodiments, calibration method  1300  can use macro inspection system  100 . 
     At  1401 , control system  70  can initialize macro inspection system  100 . In some embodiments, initialization can include determining the configuration of lights L1 to Ln of macro inspection system  100  (e.g., the total number of lights L1 to Ln, the address and location of each light, the position of the light deflector, the area of projection for each light at each possible position (including height and angle) from the light source to the region where the light is projected (collectively, “configuration information”(, and storing the configuration information in local or remote memory. 
     Methods to define an area of illumination projected by each light L1 to Ln is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/262,017 entitled “Macro Inspection Systems, Apparatus and Methods,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     At  1402 , a reference specimen with known features and/or mechanical/physical properties (e.g., size, reflectivity) can be placed on a specimen stage. Different combinations of lights L1 to Ln can be activated at different colors and/or intensities, at different possible distances and angles (collectively, “light position”(from the light source to the region where the light is projected to determine a desirable illumination landscape for the reference specimen (at  1403 ). In some embodiments, the desirable illumination landscape can be determined based on the quality of images captured by imaging assembly  33 , based on the measured intensity of light reflected off a specimen S across each individual pixel or pixel groups of imaging assembly  33 , based on quality of images displayed on a display screen and/or any other suitable metric. In some embodiments, the illumination landscape can be adjusted by manually activating different combinations of lights L1 to Ln at different colors and/or intensities and at different possible positions until the desired illumination landscape is achieved. In other embodiments, the illumination landscape can be adjusted by programming a set of conditions (e.g., using control system  70  and configuration information of  1401 ) to turn on different combinations of lights L1 to Ln at different colors and/or intensities and at different light positions until a desired illumination landscape is achieved. When the desired illumination landscape for a reference specimen is achieved, the address (or other identifying information) of the activated lights, the intensity level and color of each selected light, as well as position information for each selected light, the distance (e.g., along the x, y and z axes) between stage and lens  34  and the position of imaging assembly  33  and a specimen stage is relation to each other (collectively “illumination profile”(, can be stored (at  1404 ) by control system  70  for future use. 
     This process to find and store an appropriate illumination profile can be repeated for different reference specimens representing different classification groups—e.g. by specimen type, by similar mechanical and/or physical specimen properties (e.g., similar reflectivity properties, similar size dimensions), by feature type, by manufacturing process and/or examination stage, by region of interest and/or any other suitable classification group. This process can also be repeated for the same reference specimen to find different illumination profiles that are appropriate for different attributes of the specimen (e.g., as determined by a specimen&#39;s mechanical or physical properties); different specimen features that are being examined; different regions of interest on the specimen and/or the manufacturing/examination process that is being examined. In some embodiments, a reference specimen is first put in focus before an illumination profile is calculated. In further embodiments, the distance between specimen stage and lens  34  is adjusted to different preset distances and an illumination profile is calculated for a reference specimen at each preset distance. 
     In embodiments where a uniform illumination landscape is desired, a reflective specimen that exhibits a uniform reflective background, as determined by standard measurement of reflectivity, can be used to calibrate macro inspection system  100  to provide a uniform illumination landscape. A background can be considered uniform if the reflectivity (e.g., as measured across each individual pixel or pixel groups of imaging assembly  33 ) does not vary by more than 5% across the entire field of view of the specimen when viewed on a specimen stage, and preferably less than 2%. In some embodiments, a reference specimen without a uniform reflective background can be used to calibrate macro inspection system  100  to provide a uniform illumination landscape. When such a specimen is used, lens  34  can be used to create a uniform reflective background by defocusing the specimen to blur any foreign objects and surface irregularities on the specimen to create a more uniform reflective background. The illumination landscape can be adjusted by activating different combinations of lights L1 to Ln at different colors and/or intensities and at different possible positions until a uniform illumination landscape is achieved. When a uniform illumination landscape is achieved, the address (or other identifying information) of the activated lights, the intensity and color level of each selected light, as well as light position information for each selected light and the distance between a specimen stage and lens  34  can be stored by control system  70  as an illumination profile that provides uniform illumination for macro inspection system  100 , a particular specimen, a specimen class, a region of interest, a particular stage in the manufacturing or examining process, and/or for any other suitable classification group. 
     It should be understood that at least some of the portions of calibration method  1400  described herein can be performed in any order or sequence not limited to the order and sequence shown in and described in connection with  FIG.  14   , in some embodiments. Also, some portions of process  1400  described herein can be performed substantially simultaneously where appropriate or in parallel in some embodiments. Additionally, or alternatively, some portions of process  1400  can be omitted in some embodiments. Calibration process  1400  can be implemented in any suitable hardware and/or software. For example, in some embodiments, calibration process  1400  can be implemented in macro inspection system  100 . Note, that calibration process  1400  is not limited to macroscope inspection systems and can also be implemented in a microscope inspection system. 
       FIG.  15 A  shows at a high level, an example method  1500  for illuminating a specimen using a macro system to achieve a desired illumination landscape)“illumination landscape method  1500 ”(, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, illumination landscape method  1500  can use macro inspection system  100 . 
     At  1501 , a specimen to be examined can be placed on a specimen stage. In some embodiments, the specimen is brought into focus before the illumination landscape provided by macro inspection system  100  is adjusted. 
     At  1502 , according to some embodiments, control system  70  can activate and adjust the intensity, color and/or pitch of lights L1 to Ln, and/or the distance between the specimen stage and lens  34  according to a stored illumination profile that is selected for the specimen. The illumination profile can be selected manually or automatically based on a computer algorithm that assesses different attributes of the specimen (e.g., as determined by one or more physical and/or mechanical properties of a specimen) and/or different goals of the examination and finds a suitable illumination profile. Methods for selecting a suitable illumination profile are further discussed in connection with  FIG.  14   . 
     In some embodiments, after selected lights L1 to Ln are activated at different colors and/or intensity, and the selected lights, and adjustments are made to the intensity, color and/or light position, and/or the distance between specimen stage and lens  34 , according to a selected illumination profile, further adjustments can be to modify the selected illumination profile to achieve a desired illumination landscape. In some embodiments, one or more lights L1 to Ln can be activated and adjustments can be made to the intensity, color and/or position of the lights, and/or the distance between a specimen stage and lens  34  without reference to any illumination profile. The activations and/or adjustments can be performed manually or automatically. 
     Once one or more of lights L1 to Ln are activated, and adjustments are made to their intensity, color and/or light position, as well as to the distance between a specimen stage and lens  34 , one or more images of the specimen can be captured and stored for analysis, as at  1503 . In some embodiments, the captured specimen images are transmitted to computer analysis system  75 . 
     At  1505 , a determination is made by computer analysis system  75  as to whether the applied activation of one or more of lights L1 to Ln, and adjustments to their intensity, color and/or light position, etc. are sufficient to produce a desired illumination landscape. Such determinations may be made based on an analysis of pixel intensity values for image data received during the image capture step of  1503 . If the illumination landscape profile is determined to be sub-optimal, then process  1500  can revert back to step  1502 , and further adjustments to the illumination landscape can be made. Steps  1502 - 1505  can iterate until an optimal illumination profile is achieved. By way of example, if an illumination landscape with a uniform light intensity profile is desired for a particular specimen type, but the image data associated with the captured one or more specimen images indicate that some regions are insufficiently illuminated, then step  1505  can revert back to step  1502 . In step  1502 , additional changes to light activation, intensity, position (elevation and/or pivot/rotation), etc. can be made. Once changes have been applied to the illumination landscape, step  1503  is repeated and image data is collected from the specimen under the new conditions, e.g., by an image capture device. Again, at step  1505 , the new illumination landscape is analyzed to determine if optimal lighting conditions have been achieved. 
     Different illumination profiles can be selected for a specimen, and for each selected illumination profile, control system  70  can activate and adjust the intensity, color and/or position of lights L1 to Ln, and/or distance between a specimen stage and lens  34  according to the selected profile, and capture and store one or more images of the specimen. As such, the iterative process of steps  1502 - 1505  can differ with specimen type, as the initially applied illumination landscape that is applied at step  1502  may vary with specimen type, region of interest, a particular stage in the manufacturing or examining process, and/or for any other suitable classification group. In some embodiments, once the illumination is configured according to a selected illumination profile, at step  1507 , a specimen stage and/or imaging assembly  33  can be adjusted to different positions in relation to each other and one or more images of the specimen can be captured at each position. 
       FIG.  15 B  illustrates steps of an example process  1510  for identifying a specimen classification and automatically adjusting an illumination landscape of the macro inspection apparatus, according to some aspects of the disclosed technology. Process  1510  begins with step  1512  which image data is received, for example, by an image processing system e.g., image processing system  1634 , discussed above. In some approaches, the image data can be included in a received image of a specimen that is taken by an imaging device, as part of macro inspection system  100 . The image data can include all or a portion of a specimen that is disposed on a stage of macro inspection system  100 . In some instances, that image data may only comprise pixel intensity values, indicating an intensity of light reflected from different portions of a specimen surface. 
     In step  1514 , the image data is analyzed to identify a classification of the specimen. In some instances image analysis may be performed to identify a subset of the specimen, such as a particular region or feature. As discussed below, machine learning classifiers, computer visions and/or artificial intelligence can be used to identify/classify the specimen. 
     Subsequently, an illumination profile can be automatically selected based on the specimen (or feature) classification and/or a particular stage in the manufacturing or examining process. The specimen/feature classification can be used to query an illumination profile database that contains one or more illumination profiles associated with specimen and/or specimen feature types. By referencing the specimen classification determined in step  1514 , a matching illumination profile can be automatically identified and retrieved. As discussed above, the illumination profile can contain a variety of settings data that describe configurations of macro inspection system  100  that can be used to achieve the optimal illumination landscape for the specimen or feature being observed. 
     It should be understood that at least some of the portions of illumination landscape method  1500  described herein can be performed in any order or sequence not limited to the order and sequence shown in and described in connection with  FIGS.  15 A and  15 B , in some embodiments. Also, some portions of process  1300  described herein can be performed substantially simultaneously where appropriate or in parallel in some embodiments. Additionally, or alternatively, some portions of process  1500  can be omitted in some embodiments. Illumination landscape method  1500  can be implemented in any suitable hardware and/or software. For example, in some embodiments, illumination landscape method  1500  can be implemented in macro inspection system  100 . Note, that illumination landscape method  1500  is not limited to macro scope inspection systems and can also be implemented in microscope inspection systems. 
       FIG.  16    shows the general configuration of an embodiment of computer analysis system  75 , in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Although computer analysis system  75  is illustrated as a localized computing system in which various components are coupled via a bus  1605 , it is understood that various components and functional computational units (modules) can be implemented as separate physical or virtual systems. For example, one or more components and/or modules can be implemented in physically separate and remote devices, such as, using virtual processes (e.g., virtual machines or containers) instantiated in a cloud environment. 
     Computer analysis system  75  includes a processing unit (e.g., CPU/s and/or processor/s)  1610  and bus  1605  that couples various system components including system memory  1615 , such as read only memory (ROM)  1620  and random access memory (RAM)  1625 , to processor/s  1610 . 
     Memory  1615  can include various memory types with different performance characteristics. Processor  1610  is coupled to storage device  1630 , which is configured to store software and instructions necessary for implementing one or more functional modules and/or database systems, such as profile generation module  1632 , illumination profile database  1636 , and imaging processing module  1634 . Each of these modules can be configured to control processor  1610  as well as a special-purpose processor where software instructions are incorporated into the actual processor design. As such, processor  1610  and one or more of profile generation module  1632 , illumination profile database  1636 , and imaging processing module  1634  can be completely self-contained systems. For example, imagine processing module  1634  can be implemented as a discrete image processing system, without departing from the scope of the disclosed technology. 
     To enable user interaction with computer analysis system  75 , input device  1645  can represent any number of input mechanisms, such as a microphone for speech, a touch-sensitive screen for gesture or graphical input, keyboard, mouse, motion input and so forth. An output device  1635  can also be one or more of a number of output mechanisms known to those of skill in the art. In some instances, multimodal systems can enable a user to provide multiple types of input to communicate with computer analysis system  75 , for example, to convey specimen information relating to a specimen type/classification, or other characteristics. Communications interface  1640  can generally govern and manage the user input and system output. There is no restriction on operating on any particular hardware arrangement and therefore the basic features here may easily be substituted for improved hardware or firmware arrangements as they are developed. 
     Storage device  1630  is a non-transitory memory and can be a hard disk or other types of computer readable media that can store data accessible by a computer, such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, solid state memory devices, digital versatile disks, cartridges, random access memories (RAMs)  1525 , read only memory (ROM)  1520 , and hybrids thereof. 
     In practice, illumination profile generation module  1632  can be configured to receive a scan of a specimen, or a portion of a specimen (collectively, “specimen image”(, from macro inspection system  100 , and/or any suitable computer readable media. In some instances, preferred illumination landscapes associated with configurations of the various macro components of macro inspection system  100  can be associated to form an illumination profile, for example, that is associated with the specimen type or classification. Illumination profiles associating illumination landscape settings with specimen classification types can be stored to illumination profile database  1636 . 
     Illumination profiles stored to illumination profile database  1636  can include specific context data such as: a configuration of lights L1 to Ln of macro inspection system  100  (e.g., the total number of lights L1 to Ln, the address and location of each light, the position of light deflector  83 , the area of projection for each light at each possible position that it can be located (including height and angle) from the light source to the region where the light is projected); the range of possible distances between specimen stage and lens  34 ; the range of different positions of specimen stage and imaging assembly  33  in relation to each other, regions of interest for particular types of specimen; a particular stage of a manufacturing or examining process that is being examined; a feature that is being examined. 
     Image processing system  1634  can be used in conjunction with profile generation module  1632  and illumination profile database  1636  to classify a specimen based on the image data received in the specimen image(s) and/or other received specimen characteristics, such as those manually provided by a user, for example, via input device  1645 . Additionally, image processing system can be configured to classify specific specimen features, determine other physical and/or mechanical specimen properties (e.g., specimen reflectivity, specimen dimensions). Classifications of specimen types, and specimen features/properties can be stored as part of an illumination profile. As such, various illumination profiles stored in illumination profile database  1636  can contain settings and parameters used to generate an optimal illumination landscape that can be referenced and matched to a sample based on sample type and or specific features or characteristics. 
     In some aspects, classification of a specimen type and/or features of a specimen can be performed using image processing algorithms that can include computer vision, one or more artificial intelligence algorithm(s) and/or computer algorithms. Classification of a specimen, or features of a specimen, can also be based on, e.g., a computer aided design (CAD) file of a specimen and/or features of a specimen, a specimen layout map identifying features on a specimen, images of known specimens and/or features, and/or information about known specimens (e.g., a specimen&#39;s dimensions, the mechanical and/or physical properties of a specimen). 
     In some instances, machine learning models can be used to perform classification of specimens, specimen features, and/or other specimen characteristics. In some aspects, image data from specimen images can be provided as an input to a machine learning classification system, for example, by image processing system  1634 . Classifier output can specify a sample or feature classification that can then be used to reference an illumination profile stored in illumination profile database  1636 . By matching the correct illumination profile with the correct sample classification or feature type, the correct illumination landscape can be achieved through the automatic calibration of light intensity, light color, lighting angle, and elevation above the specimen, etc. 
     As understood by those of skill in the art, machine learning based classification techniques can vary depending on the desired implementation, without departing from the disclosed technology. For example, machine learning classification schemes can utilize one or more of the following, alone or in combination: hidden Markov models; recurrent neural networks; convolutional neural networks; Bayesian symbolic methods; general adversarial networks; support vector machines; image registration methods; applicable rule-based system. Where regression algorithms are used, they may include including but are not limited to: a Stochastic Gradient Descent Regressor, and/or a Passive Aggressive Regressor, etc. 
     Machine learning classification models can also be based on clustering algorithms (e.g., a Mini-batch K-means clustering algorithm), a recommendation algorithm (e.g., a Miniwise Hashing algorithm, or Euclidean LSH algorithm), and/or an anomaly detection algorithm, such as a Local outlier factor. Additionally, machie learning models can employ a dimensionality reduction approach, such as, one or more of: a Mini-batch Dictionary Learning algorithm, an Incremental Principal Component Analysis (PCA) algorithm, a Latent Dirichlet Allocation algorithm, and/or a Mini-batch K-means algorithm, etc. 
     Such algorithms, networks, machines and systems provide examples of structures used with respect to any “means for determining an illumination profile for a specimen using artificial intelligence.” 
     In some embodiments, machine learning can be deployed in the creation of illumination profiles. For example, profile generation module  1632  can input the context data, along with the specimen image or data determined from the specimen image)“specimen data”(into a trained artificial intelligence algorithm to create one or more appropriate illumination profiles to be applied to illuminate a specimen. In other embodiments, image processing system  1634  can use machine learning models or other computer algorithms to select a predefined illumination profile based on the specimen image, specimen data and/or context data, as discussed above. 
     Once the desired illumination profile has been selected, e.g., from illumination profile database  1636 , the illumination profile data can be transmitted to control system  70 . Control system  70  can use this information in connection with process  1400  to apply an illumination profile to illuminate a specimen being examined. 
     Examples of artificial intelligence based image processing algorithm that can be used by illumination profile generation module  1632  is image registration as described by: Barbara Zitova, “Image Registration Methods: A Survey,” Image and Vision Computing, Oct. 11, 2003, Volume 21, Issue 11, pp. 977-1000, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The disclosed methods are just examples and are not intended to be limiting. 
     In some embodiments, the machine learning algorithms used by illumination profile generation module  1632 , and image processing system  1634 , including, in some embodiments, an image processing algorithm, is first trained with training data so that illumination profile generation module  1632  can create an appropriate illumination profile for a specimen. 
     As shown in  FIG.  17   , training data  1701  can include labeled images of known specimens and features captured by a macro inspection system according to embodiments of the disclosed subject. The labeled images selected for training can be images of desired quality that show suitable detail based on an inspection objective for the captured images. In some embodiments, training data  1701  can include non-image files identifying the type of specimen and/or features being inspected. Training data can further include for each image: data describing the activation, intensity, color, position data for (i) lights L1 to Ln; (ii) the distance (along the x, y and z axes) between a specimen stage and lens  34 ; and (iii) the position of the specimen stage and imaging assembly  33  in relationship to each other, the features of a specimen being inspected; the region of interest on the specimen being inspected; the particular stage of a manufacturing or examining process being inspected. In some embodiments training data can include physical/mechanical properties of a specimen, and/or any other suitable characteristic used to create an appropriate illumination profile. In some embodiments, training data can also include unlabeled data. 
     Once the artificial intelligence algorithm used by illumination profile generation module  1632  is trained, it can be applied by illumination profile generation module  1632  to a received specimen scan to create one or more illumination profiles (output data  1702 ) for each received specimen image. As described above, illumination profile data can include data identifying which lights L1 to Ln to activate, and at what intensity, color and light position. Illumination profile data can also include a distance (e.g., along the x, y and z axis) between a specimen stage and lens  34 , as well as the position of the specimen stage and imaging assembly  33  in relation to each other. 
     Note that macro inspection system  100  can include other suitable components not shown. Additionally or alternatively, some of the components included in macro inspection system  100  can be omitted. 
     In some embodiments, any suitable computer readable media can be used for storing instructions for performing the functions and/or processes described herein. For example, in some embodiments, computer readable media can be transitory or non-transitory. For example, non-transitory computer readable media can include media such as non-transitory magnetic media (such as hard disks, floppy disks, etc.), non-transitory optical media (such as compact discs, digital video discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), non-transitory semiconductor media (such as flash memory, electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), etc.), any suitable media that is not fleeting or devoid of any semblance of permanence during transmission, and/or any suitable tangible media. As another example, transitory computer readable media can include signals on networks, in wires, conductors, optical fibers, circuits, and any suitable media that is fleeting and devoid of any semblance of permanence during transmission, and/or any suitable intangible media. 
     The logical operations of the various embodiments are implemented as: (1) a sequence of computer implemented steps, operations, or procedures running on a programmable circuit within a general use computer, (2) a sequence of computer implemented steps, operations, or procedures running on a specific-use programmable circuit; and/or (3) interconnected machine modules or program engines within the programmable circuits. The macroscopic inspection system of the subject invention can practice all or part of the recited methods, can be a part of the recited systems, and/or can operate according to instructions in the recited non-transitory computer-readable storage media. Such logical operations can be implemented as modules configured to control the processor to perform particular functions according to the programming of the module. 
     The various systems, methods, and computer readable mediums described herein can be implemented as part of a cloud network environment. As used in this paper, a cloud-based computing system is a system that provides virtualized computing resources, software and/or information to client devices. The computing resources, software and/or information can be virtualized by maintaining centralized services and resources that the edge devices can access over a communication interface, such as a network. The cloud can provide various cloud computing services via cloud elements, such as software as a service (SaaS) (e.g., collaboration services, email services, enterprise resource planning services, content services, communication services, etc.), infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., security services, networking services, systems management services, etc.), platform as a service (PaaS) (e.g., web services, streaming services, application development services, etc.), and other types of services such as desktop as a service (DaaS), information technology management as a service (ITaaS), managed software as a service (MSaaS), mobile backend as a service (MBaaS), etc. 
     The provision of the examples described herein (as well as clauses phrased as “such as,” “e.g.,” “including,” and the like) should not be interpreted as limiting the claimed subject matter to the specific examples; rather, the examples are intended to illustrate only some of many possible aspects. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the term mechanism can encompass hardware, software, firmware, or any suitable combination thereof. 
     Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the above discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as “determining,” “providing,” “identifying,” “comparing” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. Certain aspects of the present disclosure include process steps and instructions described herein in the form of an algorithm. It should be noted that the process steps and instructions of the present disclosure could be embodied in software, firmware or hardware, and when embodied in software, could be downloaded to reside on and be operated from different platforms used by real time network operating systems. 
     The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it may comprise a general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored on a computer readable medium that can be accessed by the computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer readable storage medium, such as, but is not limited to, any type of disk including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, magnetic-optical disks, read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any type of non-transient computer-readable storage medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. Furthermore, the computers referred to in the specification may include a single processor or may be architectures employing multiple processor designs for increased computing capability. 
     The algorithms and operations presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may also be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps and system-related actions. The required structure for a variety of these systems will be apparent to those of skill in the art, along with equivalent variations. In addition, the present disclosure is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It is appreciated that a variety of programming languages may be used to implement the teachings of the present disclosure as described herein, and any references to specific languages are provided for disclosure of enablement and best mode of the present disclosure. 
     It is understood that any specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged, or that only a portion of the illustrated steps be performed. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. For example, in certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products. 
     The system, method and apparatus for macroscopic inspection of reflective specimen have been described in detail with specific reference to these illustrated embodiments. It will be apparent, however, that various modifications and changes can be made within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as described in the foregoing specification, and such modifications and changes are to be considered equivalents and part of this disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the claims that follow. 
     Statements of this disclosure include: 
     Statement 1. An inspection apparatus, comprising: a specimen stage configured to retain a specimen, one or more imaging devices positioned above the specimen stage to capture one or more images of the specimen from the specimen stage; a set of lights disposed on a platform between the specimen stage and the imaging device; and a control system coupled to the specimen stage, the one or more imaging devices, and the platform, the control system comprising: one or more processors; and memory storing executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by the one or more processors, cause the control system to: provide first instructions to the one or more imaging devices to capture a first image of the specimen, the first image comprising a first imaging artifact to a first side of a reference point; provide second instructions to the one or more imaging devices to capture a second image of the specimen, the second image comprising a second imaging artifact to a second side of the reference point; crop the first imaging artifact from the first image and the second imaging artifact from the second image; and digitally stitch together the first image and the second image to generate a composite image of the specimen, the composite image lacking the first imaging artifact and the second imaging artifact. 
     Statement 2. An inspection apparatus according to Statement 1, wherein the executable instructions further cause the control system to: translate the one or more imaging devices in a first direction to a first position above and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image of the specimen; and translate the one or more imaging devices in a second direction to a second position above and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image of the specimen. 
     Statement 3. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 and 2, wherein the executable instructions further cause the control system to: translate the specimen stage to a first position under and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image of the specimen; and translate the specimen stage in a second direction under and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image of the specimen. 
     Statement 4. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 3, wherein the reference point is positioned along a centerline of the specimen. 
     Statement 5. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 4, wherein the imaging device is moveable along a rotational axis. 
     Statement 6. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 5, wherein: the one or more imaging devices include: a first imaging device positioned above and over to the first side of the reference point; and a second imaging device positioned above and over to the second side of the reference point; and the inspection apparatus further comprises an aperture slider positioned below the first imaging device and the second imaging device, the aperture slider comprising an aperture to allow capture of images of the specimen using either the first imaging device or the second imaging device. 
     Statement 7. An inspection apparatus according to Statement 6, wherein: the control system translates the aperture slider to a first position such that the aperture is aligned with the first imaging device to capture the first image; and the control system translates the aperture slider to a second position such that the aperture is aligned with the second imaging device to capture the second image. 
     Statement 8. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 7, wherein the executable instructions further cause the control system to: translate the platform; activate one or more combinations of the set of lights to determine an illumination profile; analyze the first image of the specimen to identify a specimen classification; select, based on the specimen classification, the illumination profile; and adjust the platform and the set of lights according to the illumination profile. 
     Statement 9. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 8, further comprising a barrier configured to diffuse light reflected from the specimen retained on the specimen stage back onto the specimen. 
     Statement 10. An inspection apparatus according to any of Statements 1 through 9, wherein the executable instructions further cause the controlling system to compare a first overlap area of the first image to a second overlap area of the second image to determine that a matching image has been identified to allow for digital stitching of the first image and the second image. 
     Statement 11. A method, comprising: receiving a specimen on a specimen stage of an inspection apparatus; identifying a reference point for the inspection system; capturing a first image of the specimen, the first image comprising a first imaging artifact to a first side of the reference point; capturing a second image of the specimen, the second image comprising a second imaging artifact to a second side of the reference point; evaluating the second image of the specimen to determine that the second image is usable with the first image to generate a composite image of the specimen; cropping the first imaging artifact from the first image and the second imaging artifact from the second image; and digitally stitching together the first image and the second image to generate the composite image of the specimen, the composite image lacking the first imaging artifact and the second imaging artifact. 
     Statement 12. A method according to Statement 11, wherein the method further comprises: translating an imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to a first position above and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image; and translating the imaging device in a second direction to a second position above and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     Statement 13. A method according to any of Statements 11 and 12, wherein the method further comprises: translating the specimen stage in a first direction to a first position under and to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image; and translating the specimen stage to a second position under and to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     Statement 14. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 13, wherein the method further comprises: rotating the specimen stage to a first position to capture the first image; cropping the first image to remove a first portion of the first image, the first portion including the first imaging artifact; rotating the specimen stage to a second position to capture the second image; cropping the second image to remove a second portion of the second image, the second portion including the second imaging artifact; and digitally rotating the second image to initiate evaluation of the second image. 
     Statement 15. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 14, wherein the method further comprises: translating an aperture slider of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to position an aperture below a first imaging device of the inspection apparatus to capture the first image, the first imaging device being positioned above and to the first side of the reference point; and translating the aperture slider of the inspection apparatus in a second direction to position the aperture below a second imaging device of the inspection apparatus to capture the second image, the second imaging device being positioned above and to the second side of the reference point. 
     Statement 16. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 15, further comprising: translating a platform of the inspection system, wherein a set of lights are disposed on the platform; activating one or more combinations of the set of lights to determine an illumination profile; analyzing the first image of the specimen to identify a specimen classification; selecting, based on the specimen classification, the illumination profile; and adjusting the platform and the set of lights according to the illumination profile. 
     Statement 17. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 16, further comprising: rotating an imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a first direction to position the imaging device to the first side of the reference point to capture the first image; and rotating the imaging device of the inspection apparatus in a second direction to position the imaging device to the second side of the reference point to capture the second image. 
     Statement 18. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 17, further comprising: diffusing light reflected from the specimen retained on the specimen stage back onto the specimen. 
     Statement 19. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 18, wherein the method further comprises: comparing a first overlap area of the first image to a second overlap area of the second image to determine that a matching image has been identified to allow for digital stitching of the first image and the second image. 
     Statement 20. A method according to any of Statements 11 through 19, wherein the specimen stage is moveable along an X axis, a Y axis, a Z axis, and a rotational axis.