Illuminating apparatus for image processing type measuring machines

An illuminating apparatus for image processing type measuring machines, said illuminating apparatus applying light to an object to be measured and so enabling determination of a size and shape of an object based upon the image thereby obtained, comprising:

• a light source;
• a plurality of optical fibers, each of said fibers having an incident end that receives light sent out from the light source and an output end that outputs light toward the object;
• and,
• a filter change-over unit disposed between the light source and the incident ends of the optical fibers, said filter change-over unit including a plurality of colored filters and being adapted to selectively place one of said plurality of colored filters between said light source and said incident ends of the optical fibers such that light passes through said one of said plurality of colored filters before being received by said incident ends of said optical fibers.