Visual inspection systems using vision sensors provide image-based automated inspection, facilitating a wide range of industrial and manufacturing applications. While 2D and 3D vision sensors are not a new technology, they are now commonly used in automated inspection, robot guidance, quality control, and sorting. These intelligent inspection systems are equipped with one or more cameras, sometimes including video and lighting. Vision sensors can measure parts, verify that parts are in the correct position, and identify the shape of parts. Furthermore, vision sensors can measure and classify parts at high speeds. Computer software processes the images captured during the evaluation process to obtain data.
Vision sensors offer simple and reliable detection thanks to their powerful vision tools, modular lighting and optics, and easy-to-use setup environment. Intelligent vision sensors can make decisions that influence the functions being evaluated, often triggering operator action through signals of failure. These systems can be embedded in production lines to provide a continuous flow of information.
Vision sensors are widely used in industrial plants and processes to maintain product quality and check operational efficiency. They can determine barcodes, detect imprints or stains, size and alignment, and many other features without any contact. Below, we'll look at some specific applications of vision sensors in engineering and scientific processes.
Inspecting text printed on glossy bags of different colors: Vision sensors can be used to inspect expiration dates printed on small bags with red, gold, or silver sheen. Character extraction performance on packaging is excellent, allowing for identification even against targets with varying background colors without requiring settings changes. Light source illumination is more uniform, ensuring stable detection even on uneven or glossy workpieces.
Identifying coded dates and times in strings: The vision sensor examines coded dates and times, as well as due dates, in strings. Quality control strings including dates and times can be identified through automatic updates using the calendar function. Date or time changes identified from the production plan do not require changes to camera settings.
Applications of vision sensors include, but are not limited to, the following: high-speed product inspection (quality control), measurement, quantity calculation, sorting, positioning, decoding, and robot guidance. The advantages of vision sensors are significant; many processes involving manual inspection can be maximized in efficiency using them. Industries already employing vision sensors include food packaging and beverage bottling; automotive, electronics, and semiconductor assembly; and pharmaceutical companies. Common tasks for vision sensors include robot guidance, pick-and-place processes, and counting. Railway companies use vision sensors for automated high-speed rail inspections.
