Cameras and Sensors | MVPro 08 | April 2018 by Clifton Media Lab

BASLER UPDATES ON SALES AND PROFITS

THE CONFERENCE SEASON IS WARMING UP

UKIVA MVC SPEAKERS SET TO EXCITE

ISSUE 8 - APRIL 2018

CAMERAS AND SENSORS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AT THE HEART OF MACHINE VISION

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MACHINE VISION PROFESSIONAL

CONTENTS

MVPRO TEAM Neil Martin

Welcome to MVPRO

LATEST NEWS The latest and biggest stories from the Machine Vision sector

NEWS a round-up of what’s been happening in the Machine Vision sector

CAMERAS AND SENSORS So what´s out there for 2018? We asked companies to update us and we take a look at some of the cameras, and sensors, that are grabbing the attention

CONFRENCES The first conference season is warming up and editor Neil Martin takes a look at what´s around the corner, starting with the UKIVA´s second Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition

EMBEDDED VISION Conquering the embedded world

MATROX A case study from Matrox Imaging whose software and frame grabber has helped Bookscanner SA improve image acquisition frequency rate in a challenging vision system

PUBLIC VISION Editor Neil Martin takes a look at Basler’s full year results, the recent STEMMER IMAGING IPO and Cognex´s financial figures

MAXX VISION Stuttgart based MaxxVision has decided to distribute the Hikvision range of machine vision components. MVPro asks why

ALRAD As Ian Alderton, Technical Sales Director at Alrad Instruments prepares for a second Machine Vision Conference in Milton Keynes in May, he tells MVPro Magazine what’s keeping him busy

ALYSIUM When it comes to connectors and cables, Alysium Tech is at the centre of the action. We asked Thomas Detjen, Head of Sales & Marketing, why Alysium is a key player when it comes to the machine vision market

KAYA Creating unique products is just one way that KAYA Instruments is making its mark on the growing machine vision market

SVS - VISTEK CMO Andreas Schaarschmidt takes MVPro Magazine through the major milestones of a sector specialist which believes in staying ahead of the curve

IMPERX is getting ready to celebrate being around for 17 years and has just launched a new series of cameras

Editor-in-Chief neil.mar tin@mvpromedia.eu

Alex Sullivan Publishing Director alex.sullivan@mvpromedia.eu

Cally Bennett Group Business Manager cally.bennett@mvpromedia.eu

Paige Haughton Sales and Marketing Executive Paige.haughton@cliftonmedialab.com

Visit our website for daily updates

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MVPro Media is published by IFA Magazine Publications Ltd, Arcade Chambers, 8 Kings Road, Bristol BS8 4AB Tel: +44 (0) 1179 089686 © 2018. All rights reserved ‘MVPro Media’ is a trademark of IFA Magazine Publications Limited. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any printed or electronic retrieval system without prior permission. All material has been carefully checked for accuracy, but no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies. Designed by The Wow Factory www.thewowfactory.co.uk

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UPBEAT MOOD CONTINUES The machine vision sector remains in confident mood and this was reflected in the successful STEM M ER I MAGI NG I PO (which shows that external investors are keen to get involved as well) and the latest figures from Cognex The backdrop is good, which sets up what should be a successful series of conferences and exhibitions this year. We take a long look at what lies ahead for events and what key companies have planned for their booths. It’s good to see that the UKIVA Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition is being held once again in Milton Keynes. I note from many press releases that the title of this event is often being shortened to MVC which, when it comes to typing it repeatedly, can only be a good thing. The UK does need its own machine vision show and let’s hope this is once again a success. Last year’s event was a cosy affair and the use of presentation theatres uplifted it from just trawling from booth to booth, to actually learning something about the industry. Personally speaking, last year’s keynote speakers were the highlight of the event and I’m hoping for big things from the two selected for this year. They should be good. The standout events this year will of course be automatica 2018 and Vision 2018. You can almost sense the excitement from the organisers as they gear up for their events. We’ll be at both events and hope to meet as many of you then as possible. And both events are acknowledging the fact that machine vision is now being used by so many other industries, not least robotics. Machine vision is widening its scope and sphere of influence dramatically, and modernday life would not be possible without it. And speaking of which, don’t forget to check out our sister publication RoboPro Magazine which sets out to keep you upto-date on a rapidly developing sector. In this issue we also take a look at what’s happening with cameras and sensors, and hear from companies across the sector. If machine vision has a beating heart, then cameras and sensors are it and gauging from some of the news flow, there is lots of great kit out there. So, here’s to the great mood continuing and let’s hope we can catch up at one of the events this year.

Neil Neil Martin Editor, MVPro

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Neil Martin Editor neil.martin@mvpromedia.eu Arcade Chambers, 8 Kings Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AB MVPro B2B digital platform and print magazine for the global machine vision industry RoboPro B2B digital platform and print magazine for the global robotics industry www.mvpromedia.eu

LATEST NEWS

UKIVA ANNOUNCES SECOND MVC KEYNOTE SPEAKER The Venturer Driverless Cars Project will form the basis of the second keynote speech at the U KIVA Machine Vision Conference And Exhibition

Hermes Parcel Delivery in the UK, Domino’s Pizza Enterprises in Germany, Postmates and Doordash in United States and the company has established other partnerships worldwide.

Professor Tony Pipe, Deputy Director at Bristol Robotics Laboratory, UWE will get the morning session of the conference and exhibition underway with a presentation about the project. The Venturer Consortium, led by SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins, consists of ten public, private and academic experts, including BAE Systems, Williams and Bristol Robotics Laboratory. The project assesses the responses of passengers and other road users to driverless cars as well as looking at the enabling technology and developing an understanding of the insurance and legal implications of increased vehicle autonomy. These are all crucial factors that will influence wide scale adoption of CAV capability. Two practical trials using the consortium’s autonomous vehicle, BAE Systems Wildcat, have already been completed. The first was carried out in the Williams Advanced Engineering simulator and the second on roads under carefully controlled conditions. The Wildcat is equipped with a situational awareness

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system utilising complementary sensor technologies including radar and cameras. The Conference and Exhibition will be held at Arena MK, Milton Keynes, UK on Wednesday 16th May 2018 (www. machinevisionconference.co.uk). The afternoon keynote speaker is Henry Harris-Burland, VP Marketing from Starship Technologies, the creators of self-driving delivery robots. Harris-Burland will give a presentation outlining the capabilities of the robot and discuss the future, what they’ve learned so far, the challenges they have faced, social acceptance and more. Starship robots are advanced personal delivery devices that carry items within a 2-mile (3km) radius, using pavements to make their deliveries. Starship Technologies was founded in 2014 by Ahti Heinla and Janus Friis who were both involved in the creation of Skype and has its business headquarters in San Francisco. Extensive street trials have led to orders from major organisations such as Just Eat,

The company is carrying out a major trial at present in Milton Keynes itself, and will bring a robot along to event to dispense soft drinks and sweets during the lunch period so that visitors can see it in action. A ‘robot ambassador’ will be on hand to answer robot questions and engage with visitors. The keynote presentation will be made at the beginning of the afternoon session. The event takes place across seven presentation theatres which will cover the following subject areas: Understanding vision technology, 3D Vision, Deep learning and Embedded vision, Optics and illumination, Vision innovation, Systems and applications and Camera technology. UKIVA Chairman, Paul Wilson said: “We are delighted that Professor Pipe has agreed to give this keynote speech and we now have two keynotes that are looking at very different types of autonomous vehicles. While the Venturer project is concerned with passenger vehicles, our other keynote speech from Henry Harris-Burland, VP Marketing at Starship Technologies covers the development of advanced, self-driving personal delivery robots that can deliver food or shopping within a 2-mile (3km) radius in an urban environment. See our Conferences section for more updates on this event.

NEWS

EMBEDDED VISION QUADCORE PROCESSOR: EYEVBOX IP EVT has launched the new Embedded Vision box for image processing for use in even under very rough environments. The EyeVBox IP possesses protection class IP67, which means that the compact processing unit in its full metal housing is not only protected against dust, but also completely against contact under voltage. It is protected against temporary submergence in water. The advantages for embedded vision systems is that in addition to the QuadCore ARM Cortex CPU and the GPU with 500MHz, it also the several interfaces such as GigE, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0. Also, a RS232 interface can be enabled. The GigE interface can be applied to program the EyeVision software, while the USB 3.0 interface can be used for connecting cameras from, for example, Basler, or

Allied Vision Technology. The act of connecting any camera is simplified with the IoCap, developed by the EVT Hardware Forge. The IoCap – short for “Image Capture & IO-Board” allows processors with EMMC, such as the EyeVBox IP, to connect cameras from any maker. The IoCap can also be applied to Embedded Vision processors such as Odroid, because with the driver written by EVT, any industrial camera can be connected. The EyeVBox IP supports the EyeVision image processing software, which with over 100

commands to solve applications such as metrology, measurements on a 3D point cloud, surface recognition, object counting, code reading (bar code, QR, DMC), OCR/OCV, pattern matching, color detection, thermal and hyperspectral imaging and various special solutions.

NONDESTRUCTIVE THERMAL IMAGING INSPECTION WITH EYEVISION EVT has released new features for their EyeVision software (3.7) which facilitates the inspection of gas turbine blades with new thermo and hyperspectral commands. It allows active and passive thermal imaging. The nondestructive detection of hidden materials in plastics, or openings in foam, is solved with the new thermal imaging commands of selfexplanatory drag-and-dropprogrammable EyeVision software. And surface shapes of transparent materials can be perceived and errors detected, such as in adhesive beads.

Application areas for the nondestructive thermal imaging analysis are mostly relevant in the automotive or the aircraft industries. As already mentioned the EyeVision Thermo commands are applicable for active as well as passive IR. One application for the use of EyeVision Thermo in case of active IR is for example the inspection of gas turbine blades. Gas turbines are exposed to enormous temperatures and centrifugal forces and therefore the demands on the quality of each single component is correspondingly high. The

inspection tasks involve the complete manufacturing chain from the cast of the blades to finishing to applying the thermal barrier layer. Furthermore, to inspect the passive and active condition of assembly groups, or elements the commands of the EyeVision Thermo software are also benefiting. As well as for the nondestructive thermal flow inspection for the manufacturingintegratet quality control in the automotive industry. Also, hyperspectral analysis is now possible with EyeVision.

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NEWS

PROTECTIVE ENCLOSURES FOR SPECIAL CAMERA SYSTEMS autoVimation has launched rugged protective housings for special cameras such as the Basler Time-OfFlight (TOF). Based on the chameleon series, they can be used in harsh conditions. The windows are installed with special seals without gluing and can therefore be easily changed. In this way, windows can be arranged individually in the smallest spaces. Thus, this type of housing is also suited to "embedded camera systems", as an individual adaptation can be achieved. The company said that thanks to the optionally available dovetail mounting plate, the proven mounting kits can be used as usual for assembling and aligning the system.

MULTIPIX TO DISTRIBUTE PHOTONEO 3D SCANNERS Multipix Imaging is to distribute Photoneo´s 3D scanner products within the UK and Ireland. Photoneo, which is based in Slovakia, believes that its patented advanced 3D vision technology is setting a new benchmark for smart vision systems. It will help to drive the future in autonomous systems, working in areas such as, collaborative robots, drones and self-driving vehicles. Photoneo PhoXi 3D scanners use a laser light pattern projector that emits a set of coding patterns onto the target scene, interpreted by a single camera it constructs

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a point cloud. The PhoXi is capable of delivering 16 million measurements per second, either in 3.2 megapixels at 5fps, or 0.8 megapixels at 20 fps. PhoXi scanners are aimed at robot handling applications for

bin picking, where randomly placed, semi-oriented objects can be picked from a container or pallet and placed on a conveyor belt. The scanners are also compatible with multiple industrial robot brands. Sales Director at Multipix Imaging Simon Hickman said: “We are very excited to be able to offer our customers the latest 3D scanner products from Photoneo. With a massive growth area in use of robots and automation systems, Photoneo 3D products are the perfect fit.” We have published a white paper from Photoneo on page 53 – take a look.

NEWS

MATROX IMAGING RELEASES MIL 10 SOFTWARE UPDATE WITH DEEP LEARNING Matrox Imaging (Montreal, Canada) has released the Matrox Imaging Library (MIL) 10 Processing Pack 3 software update. It features a CPU-based, image classification module which makes use of deep learning technology for machine vision applications. Processing Pack 3 also includes the addition of a photometric stereo tool to bring out hard to spot surface anomalies and a new dedicated tool to locate rectangular features.

Deep learning for image classification Leveraging convolutional neural network (CNN) technology, the classification tool categorizes images of highly textured, naturally varying, and acceptably deformed goods. The inference is performed exclusively by Matrox Imaging-written code on a mainstream CPU, eliminating the

dependence on third-party neural network libraries and the need for specialized GPU hardware. The intricate design and training of a neural network is carried out by Matrox Imaging, taking advantage of the accumulated experience, knowledge, and skill of its machine learning and machine vision experts.

Registration tool set gets photometric stereo The photometric stereo technique is now available within the registration module to produce a single image that emphasizes object surface irregularities such as embossed and engraved features, scratches and indentations. The composite image is computed from a series of images taken with light coming in from different directions as produced by illumination solutions based on the CCS Inc. Light Sequence Switch (LSS) or Smart Vision Lights LED Light Manager (LLM).

Shape-finding tool for rectangles Part of the Geometric Model Finder (GMF) module, the Rectangle Finder tool is a faster, more flexible, and more robust option than generic geometric pattern matching. The tool is able to simultaneously search for multiple occurrences of rectangles with different scale and aspect ratios. Director of Product Management at Matrox Imaging Pierantonio Boriero said: “Montreal is a hotbed of artificial intelligence development, and Matrox Imaging is perfectly situated to take full advantage of this growing knowhow. Combined with our long-standing and trusted expertise in the field of machine vision applications, we’ll be able to deliver the best solutions to our customers.’’

Always in focus Despite vibration

The unique Fujinon lens design for stable image quality Fujinon´s Anti Shock & Vibration Technology compensates for shocks and vibrations that often occur in industrial imaging systems. The lenses keep their high resolution and minimize the shift of the optical axis. Fujinon HF-12M series and HF6XA & HF50XA already incorporate the new technology. More on www.fujifilm.eu/fujinon Fujinon. To see more is to know more.

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NEWS

‘WHEN, WHERE, AND HOW TO USE AN LED LIGHTING CONTROLLER’ The practical use of LED lighting controllers will be the theme of a presentation to be given by John Merva, Vice President, North America, Gardasoft, at The Vision Show, Boston. The talk, entitled ‘When, Where, And How To Use An LED Lighting Controller’ will explain the situations in which precision lighting control can greatly improve the performance of a machine vision system. Merva will

give examples such as how lighting controllers can enable users to overcome the effects of ambient light and avoid measurement errors.

can be easily created to allow a camera and light to be accurately triggered when a fast-moving object passes under the camera.

There will also be the opportunity to watch precision lighting control in action on the company’s booth. The power and flexibility of the Gardasoft CC230 trigger timing controller will be displayed via a demonstration which shows how precision illumination sequences

MIKE GIZNIK BECOMES PRESIDENT AT MIDOPT Mike Giznik has been appointed President at Midwest Optical Systems (Palatine, Illinois). Giznik, a leading machine vision industry figure, previously held the position of Vice-President at MidOpt. He leads the company team, and also plays a key role in

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the design and distribution of MidOpt machine vision filters. He said: "This is an exciting time for MidOpt, and I am proud to be taking on the role as president. MidOpt has transformed industrial imaging and in the past several years became the clear machine vision filter leader."

Before joining the MidOpt team in 2010, Giznik spent 15 years managing various material distribution businesses. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and served four years in the United States Air Force.

NEWS

IMPROVING MAMMOGRAM QUALITY An ultra-high performance detector designed for medical applications, particularly mammography, is being developed by G-ray Medical Sàrl, a Neuchâtel startup. The detectors will be made in partnership with CSEM, based on G-ray’s revolutionary latenium technology. Centred on particle-counting X-ray imaging, this solution plans to improve the quality of the images obtained from examinations such as breast cancer screening helping earlier detection and reducing the radiation doses currently needed for mammography. The company said that breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. Since the beginning of the 21st century, there has been a worrying increase in cases in young

women. To maximise the chances of recovery, early and reliable diagnosis of the disease is crucial. G-Ray Medical Sàrl intends to offer the medical world a new generation of X-ray imagers based on its latenium electronic technology. To do this G-ray will deepen its collaboration with CSEM. Having already collaborated in the Novipix project, supported by the Swiss National Foundation, the two partners believe they have demonstrated the effectiveness of G-ray Medical's technologies, in particular the covalent bonding of two silicon wafers at low temperatures. Their collaboration has led to the finalisation of a pioneering X-ray detector. CEO of G-ray Medical Philippe Le Corre said: "This new collaboration will enable us to demonstrate the huge

potential of developing electronics for our detector. Project Manager at CSEM Pierre-François Rüedi said: "The main challenge is now miniaturising both the sensor's pixels and the system's energy consumption, whilst offering very highquality X-ray imaging.” According to Professor Daniel Rüfenacht, a radiology expert at the Hirslanden Group, the project's potential is considerable: "The development of the detector's electronic components must enable the information from the images to be captured in as much detail as possible, at speeds as fast as the human eye." In his opinion, this kind of progress is eagerly anticipated by the medical world, but could also be of benefit in other scientific fields.

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CAMERAS AND SENSORS – AT THE HEART OF MACHINE VISION So what´ s out there for 2018? We asked companies to update us and we take a look at some of the cameras, and sensors, that are grabbing the attention

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“…ARE TARGETED AT A WIDE ARRAY OF INDUSTRIAL VISION AND NON-MANUFACTURING MARKETS…”

SONY Sony Europe’s Image Sensing Solutions has let us exclusively know that later this year it will add a 12 MP Camera Link module, further extending its range of GS CMOS Camera Link and GigE modules. It has also launched its first industrial vision module to use the USB3.0 transmission standard. The GS CMOS module, which is available in both colour and black and white variants, has a 1.6 MP resolution (1456 x 1088 pixels) and transmits data at over 100 frames per second. The XCU-CG160 has been designed to give a simple migration path from CCD to GS CMOS, allowing the switch without system upgrades or a changed architecture. At its heart is the 1/3-type Sony Pregius IMX273 sensor, which is an ideal replacement for the highly-renowned ICX445 CCD sensor and gives huge technological improvements in sensitivity, dynamic range, noise reduction and frame rate capability. The modules have been designed to lead the market in terms of image quality and are targeted at a wide array of industrial vision and non-manufacturing markets - from print, robotics and inspection to medical, logistics and general imaging. Sony’s Matt Swinney said: “For those who have overall responsibility for machine vision systems, the migration path from analogue to digital is

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front of mind. The XCU-CG160 makes this an easy process with the added advantage of superb performance. We believe this will be very favourably received by the market.” Key image-processing features included on the device include area gain and defect pixel correction. Shading correction has also been implemented. The b/w module has a minimum illumination of just 0.5 lx, the colour module requires just 12 lx and comes with a manual, auto and one-push white balance setting. Both modules have a sensitivity of F5.6, a gain of 0 to +18 dB, a shutter speed of 60 s to 1/10,000 s. The C-mount modules measure 29 x 29 x 42 mm, weigh 52g, and have an operating temperature of -5oC to +45oC. It meets UL609501, FCC Class A, CSA C22.2No.60950-1, IC Class A Digital Device, CE : EN61326 (Class A), AS EMC: EN61326-1, VCCI Class A and KCC regulations.

The principles behind Sony’s camera design We asked the company about the principles behind its camera design and Arnaud Destruels, VC Product Marketing Manager, Sony Image Sensing Solution Eu, prepared the piece below. Thinking fast: why system speed is essential for quality assurance in machine vision systems

To meet these demands, and continue to improve both productivity and quality, industrial vision systems will again need to make a big leap. If we look at systems like robotic production lines, these are now able to build even highly complex products, and do so at exceptionally high speed. One sector that typifies this well is PCB assembly, for example, with SMT placement equipment (more commonly known as chip shooters) able to place parts at a rate greater than 30 per second – that’s over 100,000 per hour. Quality assurance is, therefore, of great concern, with careful inspection being essential in ensuring PCBs that have incorrectly mounted components are spotted and stopped before they enter final assembly. Additionally, it’s vital that errors are spotted as quickly as possible to prevent wastage from other components being mounted on a board already outside of tolerance. It is therefore essential to adopt machine vision systems on a line, as well as full board inspection systems between assembly stages. This need is even greater when high pin-count or high-cost components are involved. As such, systems with high frame-rate cameras and with communication interfaces capable of high data transfer rates have become essential for maintaining quality on the production lines - ensuring full resolution images are sent continuously for rapid processing. But maximising quality at high speed takes more than just a fast sensor.

“It’s safe to say that there has been an unrelenting focus on production line efficiency - be it in traditional sectors, or even in ones that rely on excellence and craftsmanship. Machine vision has proved pivotal in enabling this, but challenges are getting ever harder.

Lighting Lighting’s role in effective industrial image processing is vital. Illumination (via LED or other light source) needs to be high enough in the area of interest to minimise the camera’s exposure time. Furthermore, its direction must be highly controlled in order to create a high contrast and allow key features to be recognised and read against their background. And similarly, uniformity plays a vital part in reducing the amount of post-processing time needed by the software in order to detect each mounted component. However, it’s rarely as easy as it sounds. Some of the main challenges come when parts of the sub-assembly being captured lie in the shadow of larger components or when the bright lighting that allows you to capture images of parts effectively when they have low contrast against the substrate, lead to glare in other parts of the image. Back end processing / wide dynamic range These issues can, to a greater or smaller extent, be managed by employing image processing, run on the backend computer system. But this requires compromises in order to enable the board to be captured in one image - and the ultimate effect on this is that accuracy could be sacrificed. Here, the higher frame rates that are enabled by CMOS imagers enables you to overcome this problem and achieve an illumination consistency - via a process called wide dynamic range. The technique takes multiple shots in sequence, each with a slightly different exposure time. By combining these and creating a composite photograph you can achieve a much higher bit depth than a single image. And the end result is that shading on parts of the image is corrected without the loss of effective bit depth that would be seen with a single-exposure.

Similarly, using multiple captures and creating a composite image will also increase the overall image quality. For example, heat haze can cause different parts of each subsequent image to be slightly blurred, making it harder for the image-processing software to spot problems or cause it to fail a perfectly valid product - which would then need either re-inspection or would be scrapped, expensively. By taking an image average, it enables image defects to be removed quickly and effectively, meaning only real issues are flagged for quality control. The use of WDR and image averaging (often referred to as multi-pixel averaging) provides key features that can be used in outdoor applications - in particular for intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Here, the quality of light varies significantly - for example the low sun in winter gives huge differences in the light levels for number plate recognition systems. WDR makes it possible to read number plates, not just when the light levels are unpredictable, but also when they change rapidly - for example when shading from an overtaking vehicle masks all or part of the number plate. The rise of CMOS over CCD imaging technologies The evolution of CMOS sensors has meant machine vision systems can now manage the intense requirements that are dictated by high-throughput capture and of multiple-image capture to give images that can be used reliably for quality control and machine guidance. In contrast to traditional imagers, based on the charge-coupled device (CCD) architecture, CMOS imagers are able to leverage massive parallelism. A CCD sensor uses a long-shift register in order to read the pixels in series. This is a significant rate-limiting step and acts as a bottleneck, slowing throughput. Conversely, a CMOS imager can place an A/D converter at the end of each pixel row. This allows the

output registers to simultaneously collect image information from an entire column of converters - as an example, the latest generation of Sony’s GS CMOS imagers delivers frame rates over 150 fps, at resolutions greater than 5 megapixels. This is an order of magnitude quicker than a comparable resolution image from a CCD sensor. Using such a high-frame-rate camera gives this headroom and enables multiple-exposure WDR as well as defectremoval techniques. Global shutters improve accuracy Accuracy can be further enhanced by the use of a global shutter sensor. These ensure the exposure for all pixels within an image happens at the same point in time, unlike for less-optimised rolling-shutter architectures. When used to capture images on high-speed production lines, these rolling-shutter architectures create errors as a result of each row of pixels being exposed and captured in series, while this has no effect for standard uses, objects moving at speed will highlight the fact that each row is captured at a slightly different point in time, creating distorted images from the camera. The improved spatial accuracy also reduces the burden placed on the image processing hardware as it reduces the chance of misrecognition and then eliminates the requirement to undertake translation or rotation corrections on the outputted raw images. The GS CMOS, for example, further improves this through a design with extremely fine tolerances on the mounting points. Communication standards To maximise the speed (throughput) via these interfaces, especially on multi-camera systems on production lines, it is vital to avoid packet collisions and bottlenecks that result from changing network conditions. Features such as intelligent flow control, which can be found on today’s advanced imagers - such

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Tough where it counts. CX series IP 65/67 cameras for applications with temperatures ranging from -40 Â°C to 70 Â°C.

Just right for applications which go beyond the ordinary due to dust, water spray or extreme temperatures! A hard-anodized housing makes the new IP 65/67 CX series cameras with up to 12 megapixel resolution suitable for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Find out more: www.baumer.com/cameras/IP65-67

Camera Link has the higher bandwidth, but shorter range. It should be noted, however, that Camera Link’s increased bandwidth doesn’t just give higher frame rates / image sizes, but also enables more advanced features, such as wide dynamic range, to be implemented.

as the GS CMOS, help to better manage this process and keep production-line quality high. How you stream data is crucial and each transmission standard comes with trade-offs – typically

distance vs bandwidth, but also in terms of complexity and cost.

Similarly, GigE has the increased range, 10X that of Camera Link 2.0, however it can also use the IEEE1588 precision timing protocol (see below) enabling lower-cost synchronisation of cameras and lighting to be implemented.

Traditionally, the major standards used in machine vision applications have been GigE, Camera Link and Firewire (IEEE1394b), albeit use of the latter has dropped significantly and USB 3.0 also beginning to be used and nextgeneration standards such as 10 GigE or Camera Link HS.

In 2018, Sony is adding USB 3 to our lineup, with our first camera available from Q2. We will also be extending our Camera Link line up of GS CMOS cameras, with a 12 megapixel module to be announced in Q2 (see below).

If you compare two of the most commonly used standards GigE, and Camera Link, which collectively make up roughly two thirds of the machine vision sector (by value).

Because of these high frame rates, there is now a need to synchronise in time systems on the production line (or those used by applications such as ITS) using IEEE1588. These systems not only include cameras, but also the LED lighting systems, the robotics or the lens.

Synchronisation

Sony announced the industry’s first camera modules capable of acting as the master, with its XCG-CG510 series adding an acquisition scheduler.

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This synchronisation of systems on a network (eg a GigE network) to a common clock through PTP allows an object in any given frame to be identified for removal (or remedial processing) easily, precisely and quickly further downstream by the production line’s robotic systems. Conclusion The machine vision industry has helped countless sectors continue to improve efficiencies - running ever faster production lines without sacrificing quality levels. Processor speeds and sensor technologies will continue to improve at a rapid rate, but a high-quality, highlyefficient system is about more than just these features. A holistic approach to system design is needed; to use a sports analogy, we need to continually make marginal gains to cut each bottleneck, and through this approach we yield a camera architecture that provides a wide variety of industries with the ability to accelerate their processes, and provide the efficiency gains to their customers.”

Teledyne DALSA Teledyne DALSA updated MVPro Magazine on its view of the camera market. It reported that: “We are seeing a growing demand for cameras that provide imaging that stretches beyond visible into the multispectral, and multi-dimensional. Artificial intelligence, deep learning, and robotics are driving camera requirements and setting the pace for development of new features.

“Applications that were too difficult to deploy in the past, or required too much investment, will soon be possible, and will further open the door for an expansion of machine vision solutions and imaging challenges beyond.”

“APPLICATIONS THAT WERE TOO DIFFICULT TO DEPLOY IN THE PAST, OR REQUIRED TOO MUCH INVESTMENT, WILL SOON BE POSSIBLE…”

As for its latest product line news, the company said that it prepared for The Vision Show an industry preview of its LineaML Multi-line CMOS camera. This was also on display at the recent event Vision CHINA 2018 Shanghai, China.

BAUMER Baumer has expanded the CX and EX camera series with ten new models featuring rolling shutter CMOS sensors by ON Semiconductor and Sony, including sensors from the STARVIS series. With resolutions of 5, 10, 12 and 20 megapixel, these sensors deliver low noise, low heat generation and what the company calls an excellent price-performance ratio. The new models are suited to costsensitive applications that require low-price cameras with high resolution and image quality comparable to a global shutter sensor, reducing system cost. Thanks to their GlobalReset function, which exposes all pixels simultaneously, even fast-moving objects are clearly captured at high image quality without the distortion seen with rolling shutter effects. First models are expected to go into production the second quarter of 2018.

applications with individual demands on resolution, interface or functional range thanks to consistent mechanical, electrical and software integration. Furthermore, the small square housing with sided M3 mounts is easily installed with maximum flexibility even in tight spaces. The CX series offers more than 80 models, including IP 65/67-rated cameras with an operating temperature range from -40 °C to 70 °C, exposure times from 1 µs to 60 s and frame rates of up to 1000 fps using a ROI (Region of Interest). Resolutions from VGA up to 20 megapixels and outstanding image quality make the versatile CX series an ideal choice for cross-industry applications with the highest demands on image detail accuracy and throughput. Focusing on the essential such as standard-compliant basic functions and CS mounts, the EX series offers Baumer quality at a small price. With resolutions of up to 10 megapixel and a robust metal housing, these are the cameras to choose for the most common applications in industrial image processing.

Miniature laser sensors A new range of miniature laser sensors which provide pinpoint accuracy for the detection of objects to within 0.1mm and with response times of less than 0.1 ms have been introduced by Baumer.

The small CX and EX series USB 3.0 and GigE cameras include the latest rolling and global shutter CMOS sensors with up to 20 megapixel resolution and the uniform form factor of 29 x 29 mm. Users save time and money in realizing multi-faceted

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The 0300 laser sensors with IO link will precisely detect very small gaps and objects, even when closely spaced so they are ideally suited to fast, or high throughput processes and applications. They are best for applications such as; assembly and handling, packaging, pharmaceutical and food and beverage which often involve large volumes. Thanks to a laser beam which focuses to within and has an accuracy of 0.1mm, objects can be positioned with high precision and follow-up processes can be controlled precisely. The main advantage of the sensors is their exact alignment thanks to the development by Baumer of qTarget a process whereby the light beam of the sensor is aligned by design to the fixing holes. This eliminates individual part tolerances and ensures that the entire sensor range has a light beam with consistent accuracy. Baumer has also developed qTeach, a new and convenient, wear-free teach-in procedure which means the sensors can be commissioned just by touching them with any ferromagnetic tool. A blue LED light provides clear optical feedback and to prevent user errors qTeach locks automatically after 5 minutes. The combination of qTarget and qTeach ensures safe, reliable and fast commissioning of the sensor, whilst also eliminating the potential weak points associated with the pushbutton or potentiometer.

IO-Link integration means the sensors are ready for Industry 4.0 allowing for quick and easy configuration for all applications using standard network components.

ALKERIA The Italian machine vision camera manufacturer Alkeria has launched a new camera family. Called CELERA One, it was originally developed on specific request for OEM customers. It is now available for standard sales and, said the company, provides the same excellence in quality, flexibility and performances of the CELERA platform. What’s more, it keeps the same extremely reduced dimensions and rugged design.

“…ORIGINALLY DEVELOPED ON SPECIFIC REQUEST FOR OEM CUSTOMERS.”

CELERA One cameras are suitable for most applications, such as automated optical inspection, high performance sorting systems, industrial metrology, microscopy and medical diagnostics. CELERA One cameras feature the Alkeria smart trigger management system and Advanced Sequencer, allowing up to 64 different video settings to be applied to a sequence of subsequent frames.

CELERA One is currently available with AMS/CMOSIS CMV and SONY Pregius sensors in monochrome, colour and NIR option. Featuring an up-to 12-bit Analog/Digital conversion, the camera comes with an SDK for Windows and Linux with a rich set of code samples in the most common languages such as C# and C++. The company added that with a significant more cost-effective price range, CELERA One extends Alkeria offer to those applications requiring nothing but the best in terms of quality and ease of use, without the need of extreme framerate.

LMI TECHNOLOGIES LMI Technologies has launched the Gocator 200 Series of modular multi-point scanners. They are the latest addition to the Gocator line of smart, allin-one 3D sensors for material optimization and quality control. By using Gocator 200 multipoint scanners, users can create a scanning system based on a modular design that allows a mix of 3D profiling, tracheid detection, and color vision for sawmills and planer mills looking to maximize wood breakdown decisions.

The 0300 range consists of five options and includes a SmartReflect option, the original light barrier design without the need for a reflector. Even reflecting objects with a size of just 0.5mm can be reliably detected within a sensing distance of 250mm. Stainless steel IP68 and IP69K options are also available which combine a rugged hygienic design for easy wash down suited to applications in packaging plants for food and pharmaceutical industries.

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The G200 series is based on coplanar scanning that effectively captures both the leading and trailing edges of lumber while minimizing conveyor footprint. LMI says it offers true differential profiling for accurate thickness measurement and can scale from 1 to 48 sensors to cover various lumber length requirements. Based on the proven high-density profile design of chroma+scan, Gocator 200 scanners run 50% faster to achieve scan rates at 3 kHz matching mills running at 300 feet per minute. In addition, tracheid scan rates are 3x faster to deliver 1.5khz density for exceptional detail in wood grain detection. With the launch of the G200 series, LMI is also expanding the capabilities of its standard Gocator Software Development Kit (GoSDK) with a new Web Scanning SDK (GoWebScan). GoWebScan SDK allows users to quickly and easily implement their own solutions by taking care of common tasks like system alignment, and merging data from multiple sensors.

WENGLOR The new EP0L001 IO-Link Master from wenglor sensoric offers Intelligent Data Communication, what the company describes as the perfect interface between the controller and smart sensor technology.

Up to eight IO-Link-compatible sensors and actuators, in accordance with IO-Link standards 1.0 and 1.1, can be easily and flexibly incorporated into the control level via industrial Ethernet with this product. The company said that within the context of fully networked Industry 4.0 production and logistics centers, as well as smart machines and process optimization by means of predictive maintenance, the new EP0L001 I/O-Link master is the perfect interface between the controller and intelligent field devices. What’s more, for the new generation of photoelectronic sensors included in the PNG//smart series with highly communicative and high-performance sensors, it’s the ideal connection module for linking up to higher network levels. Participants exchange real-time data concerning system statuses during the running process, and can thus be dynamically adjusted to changing operating conditions. The extremely rugged and compact zinc die-cast housing is ideal, said the company, for harsh industrial conditions thanks to IP65/IP67/IP69k protection. Whether cold, or hot ambient conditions prevail, the IOLink master works reliably at temperatures within a range of -20 to +70° C. It’s minimal weight of just 500 g also qualifies the unit for moving applications or mounting directly to machines.

wenglor also offers suitable connection components. Product highlights •

8 flexibly configurable, IOLink-compatible M12 ports

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2D-coded switch ports, configurable for connection to PROFINET or EtherNet/IPTM

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Rugged, compact zinc die-cast housing

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Integrated web server.

WENGLORMEL wenglorMEL reported that its 2D/3D sensors experienced strong growth in mid-November. The new performance class for weCat3D profile sensors MLSL2 includes a total of ten innovative models. As a result of this expansion, the sensors provide even more options for three-dimensional object measurement. In particular they permit large visual field widths of up to 1350 mm in the X direction, as well as increased laser power and even more extensive and faster profile detection.

“AS A RESULT OF THIS EXPANSION, THE SENSORS PROVIDE EVEN MORE OPTIONS FOR THREEDIMENSIONAL OBJECT MEASUREMENT.”

Whereas MLSL series sensors have thus far only been capable of covering visual field widths of up to 280 mm in the X direction, the ten new models offer visual field widths of up to 1350 mm in the X direction. And this means, said the company, that significantly larger objects can now be detected than in the past. Diverse applications such as bin picking, pick & place, gap measurement, object counting and 3D sealant bead monitoring represent only a small portion of the possible uses for this technology.

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wenglorMEL managing director Torsten Hellerström said: “Expansion of the performance range of the MLSL series is making it possible for us to provide outstanding point cloud quality with a very broad visual field over a large distance. And all of these features are included in a compact housing.” With dimensions of just 200 x 67 x 38 mm, the ten new models represent a successful mixture of performance and compact design. Variants with different laser classes including 2M, 3R and 3B and red, or blue light, also provide customers with maximum diversity for product selection.

SCORPION VISION The global shutter Scorpion 3D Venom Camera is designed to be used in cutting-edge 3D Stereo Vision systems. The company said it excels in short to medium size baseline using a single colour or monochrome camera with resolution from VGA to 12 MP. Two virtual 3D cameras are created by what the company describes as a clever mirror design that focuses on a user specified working distance. Every camera is factory calibrated to a task with specific resolution at the selected working distance. The unique One-Push-Calibration ensures subpixel resolution and 3D resolution from 0.001 mm.

MAIN TARGET APPLICATIONS ARE ID TRACKING, OBJECT TRACKING, HEIGHT MEASUREMENT, OBJECT COUNTING AND MORE.

Main target applications are ID tracking, object tracking, height measurement, object counting and more. Fast feature location and 3D image generation will support fast tracking framerates from 1 to 25 fps. The Global Shutter 3D camera locates moving objects in real-time. This is ideal for realtime tracking and position servos. The 3D Venom camera replaces a 2D camera when both 2D and 3D is needed for creating a 100 % robust and accurate solution. The distance to the object is easily determined with the 3D Venom camera. It is connected to a PC with a GigE connection, POE (Power over Ethernet) or an USB3 cable. Scorpion Vision Software can control multiple 3D cameras from a single Scorpion embedded PC. Multiple 3D cameras are used to provide multiple viewing angles and to extend the 3D FOV without losing resolution.

Brand New Hikvision 5MP USB3.0 Camera The company is also now distributing Hikvision’s latest addition to the growing USB3.0 machine vision camera portfolio. The MV-CA050-11UM 5MP 2/3” CMOS USB3.0 camera uses the latest generation Sony IMX264 Pregius sensor and can be used in a variety of applications including electronic semiconductor fabrication, factory automation and quality inspection. Key features: •

single board design meaning flexible configuration;

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USB3.0 interface provides 3Gbps bandwidth;

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supports auto exposure control, LUT and gamma correction;

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cameras can be synchronised with hard trigger and soft trigger;

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multiple exposure modes;

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uses Sony IMX264 Pregius Sensor;

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compatible with USB3.0 Vision V1.0, can be supported by third party software.

SICK SICK has added a plug-andplay, configurable option to its Visionary-T range of industrial 3D imaging cameras. The Visionary-T DT 3D detection sensor harnesses the imaging power of SICK’s single snapshot Time-of– Flight (TOF) technology in a complete package for machine builders and end-users alike. The Visionary-T DT is a robust industrial imaging sensor for 3D detection duties that can be configured using a PC, SICK’s SOPAS software tool and a purpose-designed Graphical User Interface. 3D objects or detection zones can be taught from the camera without the need for complex programming. SICK’s Visionary-T imaging sensors capture high-resolution real-time 3D images with one shot of light, dispensing with the need to profile a moving object through laser triangulation. The SICK singlesnapshot technology does not need movement to create the depth of field and object resolution required for highperformance 3D detection.

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“SICK’S VISIONARY-T IMAGING SENSORS CAPTURE HIGHRESOLUTION REAL-TIME 3D IMAGES WITH ONE SHOT OF LIGHT…”

The Visionary-T DT offers a versatile, entry-level option for both factory automation and building security applications. With on-board processing, the sensor can be configured for a variety of applications to detect the presence or absence of 3D objects. The sensor provides a 3D image or a simple yes/no, occupied or unoccupied, signal depending on the configuration.

A discrete output signal enables easy integration with an automated system. Direct communication capability is available with a robot arm, AGV or other actuator, to a remote visual display, an acoustic alarm or a PC, and allows activity recording for later appraisal of any incidents. “The SICK Visionary-T DT allows users to integrate 3D vision into automated systems without the need to process raw data or to perform complex programming,” explains Neil Sandhu, SICK’s National Product Manager for Imaging, Measurement, Ranging and Systems.

“Tasks that were previously difficult to achieve with a fixed camera are now quickly and easily accomplished by the Visionary-T DT. For example, knowing whether a bin, tote or stillage is completely empty, part full, or has similar parts in stacked layers, has often been difficult to check without moving the camera, or the bin and objects. “The Visionary-T DT can sense whether a container is overloaded, needs part- or complete filling, and can check whether it is in the correct position to allow automatic replenishment. The device can also be used on manned or driverless stacking vehicles to warn of collisions, or to check that racking, or a stand, or table, is empty of obstructions that might prevent a load being deposited; this can be useful where a driver’s view is obstructed. “The Visionary-T DT can assess the availability of a workstation or cell on a production line where a large object, such as a vehicle or other machinery assembly, is to be moved for the next phase and warn of any intrusions. “Other dynamic tasks such as security intrusions or protecting a work of art on display, are also easily accomplished with the same high 3D sensing performance. The Visionary-T DT could also be utilised to protect large stand-alone objects, such as a valuable display or exhibit in a public space; its range enables it to be ceilingmounted, for example.” The IP67-rated SICK Visionary-T DT is designed for 24/7 industrial use in rugged conditions. With a sensing area range of up to 50 by 45 metres at 40 metres distance, the SICK Visionary-T DT provides excellent area

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coverage around objects and machinery. The powerful light burst illuminates even matt and dark coloured objects, and the adjustable filters allow application-specific optimisation for enhanced detection quality.

XENICS Xenics reported that it has significantly improved the quality of its detectors and resulting cameras. It has recently increased production capabilities, added extra clean room space, reviewed processing techniques and modernized equipment. The company said that the first evidence of this improved and upgraded manufacturing process is the significant reduction of dark current in its standard InGaAs SWIR detectors. The detectors with improved dark current performance will first be introduced in the Bobcat 640 cameras and Cheetah TE3 camera. Later, these detectors will find their way into all InGaAs SWIR cameras, including the vSWIR (visible enhanced short-wave infrared) models with extended response into the visible range.

BASLER Basler has introduced eight new ace U models with the Global Shutter CMOS sensors IMX287 and IMX273 from Sony’s Pregius line. They offer VGA and 1.6 megapixel resolutions and deliver up to 520 frames per second. Basler said the IMX273 sensor offers the same outstanding image quality, high speeds and low noise with a pixel size of 3.45 µm already known from other sensors of the second Pregius generation (e. g. IMX250 and IMX304). The IMX287 sensor, on the other hand, has twice the pixel size with an edge length of 6.9 µm. This results in an increased saturation capacity and a higher dynamic range with the same sensitivity and also low noise.

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“THIS RESULTS IN AN INCREASED SATURATION CAPACITY AND A HIGHER DYNAMIC RANGE WITH THE SAME SENSITIVITY AND ALSO LOW NOISE.”

Both sensors have the Ultra Short Exposure Time feature, which allows extremely short exposure times of up to one microsecond (1 µs). This makes them particularly suited for applications with fast movements, such as in the print sector. The sensitivity of both sensors also extends into the nearinfrared range and thus positions them as a good alternative to higher-priced, dedicated NIR sensors in applications where low sensitivity in the NIR range is sufficient, such as electroluminescence inspection or in traffic and security applications. With their features, the eight new ace U models are also ideally suited as upgrades for older CCD cameras with low resolutions. For example, the CMOS sensor IMX287 is an excellent replacement for the CCD sensor ICX618. Thanks to the similar pixel format at the same resolution, a smooth transition is possible. Due to its significantly better sensor characteristics at a similar price level, the IMX287 offers users additional optimization potential for the entire image processing chain. All eight new ace U cameras are available with the GigE and USB 3.0 interfaces and include

the feature set PGI, the unique combination of 5x5 debayering, color-anti-aliasing, denoising and improved sharpness. The GigE models also offer powerful GigE Vision 2.0 features such as PTP. The pylon Camera Software Suite from Basler ensures a fast and simple integration of the ace cameras. The first design-in samples are planned for Q2 2018.

Basler Ace Basler is also expanding the image processing options of its ace camera series with two new features: •

PGI for monochrome cameras;

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Stacked ROI to select multiple regions of interest;

•

The features are available now in selected models of the ace U and ace L product lines.

PGI for Monochrome Cameras Basler said that PGI, the unique feature combination of 5x5 debayering, color-antialiasing, denoising, and improved sharpness has already simplified color applications in many areas and even enabled applications that were not previously possible. Now an adjusted version of this patented in-camera image optimization is also available for monochrome cameras. The PGI features-denoising and improved sharpness--are perfectly adapted to the demands of monochrome cameras. In contrast to color cameras, a debayered pixel format is not required for these cameras. As a result, raw images can be used and the maximum sensor speed can be utilized. Thus, PGI enables quicker image processing and with it higher throughputs that open up additional cost savings along the image processing chain, all while significantly optimizing image quality. The PGI feature set for monochrome cameras is available for the entire ace L product line and all ace U models with Pregius sensors from Sony and with PYTHON sensors from ON Semiconductor.

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Stacked ROI: Selection of Multiple Regions of Interest Increasing cycle speeds, higher resolutions and data volumes in inspections lead to rising demands on the applied processors and algorithms so that this high amount of information can be processed. With the help of the new Stacked ROI feature, the focus in an application can now be directed to multiple regions of interest (ROI) at the same time. Selecting multiple ROIs allows the user to increase speed and reduce data load when reading image data. Stacked ROI includes the use of up to eight (four for the Sony IMX174) stacked zones which are adjustable in height. Basler offers the feature integrated in the FPGA for all ace U and ace L models with PYTHON sensors from ON Semiconductor and the fast Sony Pregius sensors (IMX174, IMX252, IMX250, IMX255, IMX253). Basler’s first camera series specifically designed for medical and life sciences Basler has introduced cameras designed specifically for the medical and life sciences sectors. The Basler MED ace series offers CMOS sensor technology and provides a speed of up to 164 frames per second and will be enhanced with cameras with resolution of up to 20 MP. With Sony’s Pregius sensors and PYTHON sensors by ON Semiconductor, the small and light-weight cameras are equipped with the newest CMOS technology. They, said Basler, offer a compelling value proposition with pixel sizes up to 5.86 µm, low temporal dark noise down to 2e- and sensor sizes up to 1.1 inch. With certification in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13485:2016, Basler now provides additional quality standards for the development, production, distribution and service of digital cameras as well as for placing them on the market. International manufacturers of medical devices benefit from an effective quality management system with clearly defined standards. Reliable product quality due to validated

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“INTERNATIONAL MANUFACTURERS OF MEDICAL DEVICES BENEFIT FROM AN EFFECTIVE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH CLEARLY DEFINED STANDARDS.”

and monitored production, traceability and comprehensive change management reduces effort required for audits, product documentation and support in complying with European standards. Basler MED ace incorporates unique Basler MED feature sets: Easy Compliance, Brilliant Image, Perfect Color, Low Light Imaging, High Speed and Industrial Excellence. They combine market-leading hardware, firmware and software features. Basler developed unique features specifically designed to address the high imaging demands in Medical & Life Sciences and to reduce customers’ development efforts. Basler’s 6 Axis Operator and the Color Calibrator Beyond provide full control of the image’s color appearance, which is highly relevant for applications in ophthalmology or microscopy. PGI as well as other new auto image functions bring supreme image quality out-of-the-box, now also for mono cameras. Also creating high impact, Basler added, is the newest CMOS sensor technology, which delivers even better image quality at much lower costs than the discontinued CCD sensors. With 30 years of vision experiences, Basler offers the broadest camera portfolio of top-notch CMOS cameras to support the transition faced by medical device manufacturers.

With IDS NXT, IDS has applied the app principle to industrial image processing. Users benefit from the greatest possible flexibility: they can assign their required image processing task to vision app-based cameras and sensors according to their individual demand. This approach, said IDS, allows not only a variable functionality of the devices, but also the direct, deviceinternal processing of information provided by the image sensor. Based on the app development kit and a HALCON embedded runtime license, users can create and install individual vision apps. The IDS NXT platform kicks off with IDS NXT vegas with 1.3 MP CMOS sensor, liquid lens with autofocus, integrated ToF sensor and many other functions. Traditional vision sensors, such as barcode readers, for example, often provide only a few predefined tasks and their functionality cannot usually be extended. IDS NXT shows that there is another way: the freely programmable platform is not restricted to specific tasks. Instead, users can install different vision apps just as easily as on their smartphone. Afterwards, they can change and set up their preferred vision tasks in a very short time.

“THE IMAGE PROCESSING ENGINE THEN DELIVERS EITHER PRE-PROCESSED DATA TO A PC OR FINAL RESULTS FOR INDEPENDENTLY MADE PROCESS DECISIONS.”

IDS IDS has launched what it describes as novel vision appbased sensors and cameras. It asks, what would smartphones be without apps? They would be ordinary mobile phones and surely far less versatile.

The image processing engine then delivers either pre-processed data to a PC or final results for independently made process decisions. This offers universal possibilities in numerous application fields, for example, in optical quality assurance, as an analytical instrument in medical technology, for monitoring tasks by facial recognition, or vehicle and person counting. IDS said that the IDS NXT vegas is extremely versatile due to its integrated 1.3 MP CMOS sensor, a liquid lens, LED illumination and Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor for distance measurement. Device status and network settings can be called up on the high-contrast, highly legible OLED display by just clicking a button. The vision appbased sensor weighs only 185 grams and simplifies design-ins into individual hardware and software. The board level option is also very interesting for OEM equipment manufacturers. Other features include SOC (system on a chip) with low power consumption and an integrated flash memory (1 GB) for storing error images, system logs, user settings and vision apps. Dust-tight and splash-proof according to IP65, the sensor also comes with vibration-proof, industry-standard M12 circular connectors that provide Gigabit Ethernet, 12-24 V DC power supply, trigger, flash, two digital inputs/outputs and a RS-232 interface. The latter one allows direct communication with a PLC or other machine controls. The standardised RESTful (Representational State Transfer) web service also provides TCP/ IP communication, which can be used to configure all IDS NXT device parameters including the apps. This means that the vision appbased sensor is configured and ready for use in just a few minutes with the help of the Windows IDS NXT Cockpit or an iOS tablet with the IDS NXT mobile app. IDS NXT vegas comes with a full HALCON embedded runtime license and the IDS NXT Software Development Kit.

Ensenso X models IDS now offers the modular Ensenso X 3D camera system with high-resolution 5 MP industrial cameras featuring the IMX264 CMOS Sony sensor. Compared to the currently available 1.3 MP sensors, they allow for an expanded field of view, higher resolution and lower noise levels. As always, the models of the 3D camera family are easy to set up and operate via the EnsensoSDK.

“THE ENSENSO X 3D CAMERA SYSTEM CONSISTS OF A POWERFUL 100 WATT PROJECTOR…”

The Ensenso X 3D camera system consists of a powerful 100 watt projector, to which two industrial cameras can be mounted at variable distances. Applications range from factory automation (e. g. Bin Picking) to warehouse and logistics automation (e. g. pallet picking). The 3D camera system is now even more flexible and powerful thanks to the latest developments: both new 5 MP cameras and an updated software development kit are now available. Thanks to the larger field of view of the 5 MP sensors, for example, the distance between the camera system and object can be reduced: In order to completely capture a packed Euro pallet with a volume of 120 x 80 x 100 cm, a distance of only 1.25 m instead of 1.5 m is required. The Z-accuracy improves from 0.43 mm to 0.2 mm. Further advantages of the new models include an increase of up to 35% in lateral resolution

with more than 30% lower noise, so that details and depth information can be captured even more precisely. With the new Ensenso X models users can choose between compact GigE uEye CP cameras and robust GigE uEye FA cameras with IP65/67 protection class – in just the same way that is possible with the 1.3 MP systems. The new cameras use the GigE Vision standard to communicate with the pattern projector. This eliminates the need for an additional installation of the IDS Software Suite.

IMAGO TECHNOLOGIES IMAGO has launched its first smart line camera which, they claim, which is the first one with ARM Cortex-A15 computing power inside! It not only scans the object line per line like any normal line scan camera, but also processes and analyzes them like a completevision system said the company.

NERIAN VISION TECHNOLOGIES The new Karmin2 camera from Nerian can be connected to the FPGA-based Stereovision systems SP1, SceneScan and SceneScan Pro with only one USB 3 socket, instead of two, which both avoid cable clutter and is more ergonomic.

“BOTH MODELS ARE TRIGGERED BY AN EXTERNAL TRIGGER SIGNAL, WHICH GUARANTEES EXCELLENT SYNCHRONIZATION.”

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Like its predecessor, the Karmin2 is still distinguished by different stereo base line distances, 10 and 25 cm. The 10 cm model is ideal for closerange depth measurements, with measuring distances up to 0.5 m. The 25 cm model, on the other hand, is designed for depth measurements from a greater distance. In this case, the higher base line allows better depth resolution at long distances. A wide range of lenses is available for each version, enabling precise adjustment of the field of view. With their standard lenses, aperture angles between 25° and 62° are possible. Depending on the application, even larger or smaller angles can be achieved with special lenses. This makes Karmin2 the 3D depth camera with the largest configuration range on the market. Both models are triggered by an external trigger signal, which guarantees excellent synchronization. The trigger signal can be generated by SceneScan or another signal generator. Accurate synchronization is essential when measuring moving objects.

EVT – EYE VISION TECHNOLOGY Hot off the press is the fact that EVT is about to release a prototype of their new Smart Line Scan camera. The company tells MVPro Magazine that there is also, beside the RealSense support, the new Chromasens 3D sensor support of the EyeVision 3D software. It has been developed for Linux and Windows.

“THIS MEANS THAT AN OPERATOR CAN USE A CHROMASENS 3DPIXA STEREO CAMERA WITH THE EYEVISION SOFTWARE.”

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This means that an operator can use a Chromasens 3DPIXA stereo camera with the EyeVision software. The 3DPIXA stereo camera is a combination of line scan technology with fast stereo algorithms running on GPU. Providing 3D data and 2D color images simultaneously opens up combined 2D and 3D inspection. The supported EyeVision 3D software with the many preconfigured commands make it easy for setting up 3D applications. As the company is convinced that multispectral imaging will become more popular in the future, hyperspectral camera support is planned as well.

ALLIED VISION Allied Vision has expanded its Manta camera family with two new models incorporating second generation Sony IMX CMOS sensors with Pregius global shutter pixel technology. The Manta G-158 comes with the IMX273 sensor, offering a resolution of 1.58 megapixels and a frame rate of 75.3 fps at full resolution. The Manta G-040 is equipped with the IMX287 sensor delivering a resolution of 0.40 Megapixels and a frame rate of 286 fps at full resolution. Allied Vision said that these new Manta models are especially suited for industrial applications that require accurate imaging of fast-moving objects. Due to their superior performance, these models will be the best candidates to replace existing CCD cameras with similar resolution and optical formats (e.g. with Sony ICX424 or ICX445 CCD sensors). Particular highlights are the three lookup tables, sophisticated color

correction capabilities, a robust metal housing, and many modular options like a board level version. The new Manta G-158 and Manta G-040 offer the Trigger over Ethernet (ToE) Action Commands feature. ToE enables users to externally trigger GigE cameras in a network through the Ethernet cable. This means that Manta cameras can now be triggered via its Power over Ethernet connection and enable users to realize single cable solutions with data, power, and trigger capabilities. Furthermore, all Action Command related configurations can be saved in the camera’s user sets. Due to the Manta’s modular concept, users can choose from a large variety of hardware options including Power over Ethernet, angled heads, optical filters, lens mounts, and board-level variants facilitating the integration into almost any application. Easy integration is also granted on the software side: the new Manta models are supported by all popular image-processing libraries, and Allied Vision’s Vimba software development kit allows easy integration and configuration with its new intuitive user interface. The new Manta models will be available in both color and monochrome variants.

LUCID VISION LABS LUCID has launched what it claims to be the industry’s smallest GigE PoE Camera with 3.2 and 5 MP Sony Pregius CMOS. The Phoenix is a micro compact camera measuring only 24 x 24 mm, making it the industry’s smallest GigE PoE camera. The first two models available will feature the second generation Sony Pregius IMX265 3.2 Megapixel and the IMX264 5.0 Megapixel global shutter CMOS sensors, running at 38 and 24 fps, respectively.

LUCID said that the Phoenix camera has a unique transformable design that can be easily configured to meet a wide range of OEM applications. Its board layout can be tri-folded into a stacked camera where it resembles a traditional cased camera, but can also be unfolded into 90 or 180-degree orientations for the ultimate custom fit. The Phoenix further advances industrial miniaturization by offering NF-mount lenses and Hirose’s ix Industrial Ethernet connector. The Phoenix camera features a built-in web interface for easy firmware updates with additional capabilities to be added in the near future.

“WE’RE THRILLED TO GO INTO PRODUCTION WITH THE FIRST PHOENIX MODELS AND BE ABLE TO FULFIL THE EARLY MARKET DEMAND.”

Founder and President of LUCID Rod Barman said: “We’re thrilled to go into production with the first Phoenix models and be able to fulfil the early market demand. With the launch of the Phoenix, our company has reached a significant milestone by putting our brand new, efficient and scalable manufacturing facility into operation that will allow us to produce products with exceptional quality that are 100% tested and traceable.”

FRAMOS Distributor FRAMOS told us that ON Semiconductor, a global leader in image sensor technology, has recently launchced its new AR0430 CMOS digital image sensor. This device, available from FRAMOS, combines classic 2D video imaging and 3D image recognition on a single sensor. The AR0430 CMOS sensor, with a small 1/3.1-inch optical format, delivers high-quality images with advanced 2.0 µm pixel stacked BSI technology; and, a 4 Megapixel resolution at 120 frames per second (fps). The depth mode enables depth mapping concurrently, while shooting video at 30 fps. ON Semiconductor’s low-cost depth solution empowers both innovative industrial and consumer end-product applications with cutting edge 3D features like cameras for IoT, wearables, security, and AR/VR/MR. The AR0430 has an active-pixel array of 2312 (H) x 1746 (V), achieving a 4:3 aspect ratio. The device provides low-power performance, drawing a mere 125 mW, when a 4 MP data stream is operating at 30 fps.

“THIS IMAGER, WITH A LARGE LINEAR FULL WELL CAPACITY AND HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE, SUCCEEDS IN CHALLENGING LIGHT CONDITIONS WITH LEADING COLOR PERFORMANCE.”

All LUCID cameras conform to the GigE Vision 2.0 and GenICam3 standards and are supported by LUCID’s own Arena software development kit. The Arena SDK provides customers with easy access to the latest industry standards and software technology.

The low power monitoring mode drawing only 8 mW in standby, is especially valuable in batterypowered security applications. The AR0430 in standard imaging mode, can provide high quality images in both day and night lighting conditions, thereby enhancing its suitability for use in security cameras.

Throughout the year of 2018, LUCID said it will continue to expand its Phoenix camera family with a range of resolutions and frame rates.

This imager, with a large linear full well capacity and high dynamic range, succeeds in challenging light conditions with leading color performance.

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It can record video at 120 fps in slow motion mode and use the zoom feature, while retaining the resolution quality that is perfect for wearable devices. The feature of depth data at 30 fps promotes the possibility of object recognition, virtual replacement, or downstream AI, that can interpret data for autonomous decisions, or touchless device control. Sensor Expert and ON Semiconductor Line Manager at FRAMOS Sibel YorulmazCokugur said: “In today’s world, imaging helps making machines to see, think, and act, predictably. The new AR0430 from ON Semiconductor provides a cutting-edge solution for vision engineers to benefit from the latest 2D and 3D imaging technology using a single device. For example, the user can participate in a video conference while replacing the background for security purposes. Also, it is possible to scan objects and to create simple 3D models for use in virtual reality worlds, or even interpret hand gestures to control smart devices. The standard compact sensor size, for Embedded Vision solutions, fits into many IoT applications and supports miniaturization, too. It also allows multiple camera synchronization for 360-degree cameras, or longer-range depth solutions. The fabrication of devices using depth technology as a baseline for innovative 3D applications, and machines driven by artificial intelligence, is now far easier with the AR0430.”

ADIMEC Adimec demonstrated new high speed 50 Megapixel cameras at AUTOMATION WORLD 2018 (AW2018) at COEX in Seoul, which took place in Korea from the 28th to the 30th of March. The new cameras included a 50 Megapixel Quad CXP camera, the Sapphire S-50A30. The S-50A30 is designed to be a reliable high resolution, high speed solution for flat panel

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display inspection systems, semiconductor metrology, or solar inspection tools. For developers of multi-camera systems, such as side-view cameras for 3D metrology, the 5Megapixel single CXP N-5A100 offers reduced system complexity through its simplicity while increasing throughput. The S-50A30/CXP is the newest addition to Adimec’s SAPPHIRE series of global shutter CMOS metrology cameras. All of the SAPPHIRE cameras provide the most reliable, low power implementation for ultra-highresolution, high-speed cameras. Key features: •

50 Megapixels (7920 x 6004) at 30 full-frames per second;

•

AMS CMOSIS CMV50000 CMOS global shutter image sensor;

•

low noise and high sensitivity performance with excellent uniformity;

•

Adimec connect-and-grab ™ up to 4 x CXP6, system set up within 24 hours;

•

lowest power, fan-less implementation in a compact form factor;

•

excellent price/ performance ratio.

Key features: •

5 Megapixels at 105 fullframes per second;

•

ON Semiconductor Python5k global shutter image sensor;

•

Adimec connect-andgrab™ single CXP6, system set up within 24 hours;

•

size 29 x 29 x 45 mm;

•

lower system cost for high performance multi-camera systems through reduction of cabling, repeaters and power supplies.

The Norite N-5A100 cameras are designed to work together to simplify easy integration on system level and control the entire camera system through one user interface. Multi-camera systems using N-5A100 cameras eliminate the cabling and synchronization constraints with Camera Link- and USB 3.0 vision-based systems.

Adimec’s CMOS cameras offer the highest speed, high resolution with reliable and highest image quality to measure ever smaller critical structures or defects with the increased accuracy and throughput required by in-line optical metrology systems. Adimec continues to add high-resolution camera options to improve accuracy and throughput of next generation healthcare and machine vision systems. Norite N-5A100 5 Megapixel single CXP6 The Norite N-5A100 camera is a 5-megapixel camera with CMOS global shutter technology in a 1” optical format.

CONFERENCE FOCUS The first conference season is warming up and editor Neil Martin takes a look at what´ s around the corner, starting with the U KIVA´ s second Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition

Starship Technologies was founded in 2014 by Ahti Heinla and Janus Friis who were both involved in the creation of Skype and has its business headquarters in San Francisco. Extensive street trials have led to orders from major organisations such as Just Eat, Hermes Parcel Delivery in the UK, Domino’s Pizza Enterprises in Germany, Postmates and Doordash in United States and the company has established other partnerships worldwide.

MVC 2018 By the time we visit Milton Keynes in May, the conference season will be well underway and we will have ticked off, amongst others, Embedded World, Vision China, The AIA Vision Show and HANNOVER MESSE. It’s good news that this is the second year of the show which demonstrates the strength of the industry in the UK and let’s hope it will be the same success as last time. Compared to many others, it’s an intimate show and one that makes great use of presentations and side events. The two keynote speakers have now been named and we kick off with Professor Tony Pipe, Deputy Director at Bristol Robotics Laboratory, UWE, who will get the morning session of the conference and exhibition underway with a presentation about the The Venturer Driverless Cars Project. The Venturer Consortium, led by SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins, consists of ten public, private and academic experts, including BAE Systems, Williams and Bristol Robotics Laboratory. The project assesses the responses of passengers and other road users to driverless cars as well as looking at the enabling technology and developing an understanding of the insurance and legal implications of increased vehicle autonomy. Taking over the afternoon slot is Henry Harris-Burland, VP Marketing from Starship Technologies, the creators of self-driving delivery robots. He will give a presentation outlining the capabilities of the robot and discuss the future, what they’ve learned so far, the challenges they have faced, social acceptance and more.

The company is carrying out a major trial at present in Milton Keynes itself and plans to bring along a robot to the event to dispense soft drinks and sweets during the lunch period so that visitors can see it in action. A ‘robot ambassador’ will be on hand to answer robot questions and engage with visitors. UKIVA Chairman, Paul Wilson said: “We are delighted that Professor Pipe has agreed to give this keynote speech and we now have two keynotes that are looking at very different types of autonomous vehicles. While the Venturer project is concerned with passenger vehicles, our other keynote speech from Henry Harris-Burland, VP Marketing at Starship Technologies covers the development of advanced, self-driving personal delivery robots that can deliver food or shopping within a 2-mile (3km) radius in an urban environment. It looks like over 50 companies have now booked stands for the accompanying exhibition and these include some familar names.

Stemmer-Imaging STEMMER IMAGING will be there in force, presenting a technical seminar covering ‘machine learning’. New 3D tools within Common Vision Blox and two LMI Gocator 2340 all-inone 3D smart sensors operating in dual sensor mode will be demonstrated. With deep learning such a hot topic in industrial machine vision, Dr Jon Vickers will give a presentation covering ‘Machine Learning’ of which deep learning is a part. The aim of this talk is to take the audience from zero knowledge to understanding the state

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of the art, showing the kinds of applications that typically succeed and, crucially, where machine learning is not the correct choice. The latest 3D tools within Common Vision Blox (CVB2018) will be demonstrated in conjunction with a C2-2040HS 3D GigE Vision camera from Automation Technology and a M18 laser stripe generator from Z-laser. The CVB 2018 Image Manager gains core 3D functionality to be able to handle and display 3D data including calibration data. Two new tools have also been added. Metric3D can create calibrated 3D data, while Match3D allows an acquired point cloud to be matched to a trained point cloud. This enables differences between the trained and test data to be found. LMI Gocator 2340 3D profile sensors can collect cross sectional profile scans to form 3D point clouds representing whole parts for performing volumetric measurements. The Gocator will be shown working in “Dual Sensor’ mode where it automatically recognizes a second Gocator called a ‘Buddy’. Dual sensor mode seamlessly combines profile data from both sensors as if they were one and uses a single GUI to configure, measure, make decisions and show results.

Gardasoft Jools Hudson of Gardasoft will be giving a presentation covering practical examples which illustrate the cause of poor results in machine vision due to variations in LED output intensity and highlighting the benefits of precision lighting control. The talk will also cover the ability of dedicated lighting controllers to reduce hardware costs and enable new application opportunities in both area scan and line scan imaging by creating multiple lighting schemes. There will also be the opportunity to see multiple lighting schemes in operation at the Exhibition. The CC320 Trigger Timing Controller will be on show, linked to multiple lights and a single camera. The controller can be configured to send trigger outputs to each light to turn them on and off in sequence. The controller also triggers the camera for each lighting pulse, allowing the acquisition of a sequence of different images from the same object using a single camera.

Multipix Imaging Multipix Imaging will use their return to MVC to highlight embedded vision and 3D Camera technology. They will field the latest machine vision components from world leading manufacturers. Multipix reckons that embedded vision and deep learning are among the hot topic areas and will cover with these with representatives on hand from Basler, Euresys and MVTec. Multipix intend to set the scene for 3D Imaging technologies, currently an exciting growth area within vision solutions. This will include the introduction of a new and incredibly accurate 3D projection method that is transforming camera integration with robots and cobots, helping with the Industry 4.0 drive. Simon Hickman, Sales Director at Multipix, will explore ‘Deeper into the 3rd Dimension’ with his presentation. Visitors will also be able to watch examples of applications and learn that single robot ‘pick and place’ solutions are just the first step.

SICK to update on App SICK will use MVC to update on its AppSpace programming environment. The company said that the concept is starting to bear fruit for automation and robotics development. At last year’s event, SICK launched AppSpace, an open software platform that allows free and flexible customisation of applications on SICK programmable sensors and devices. Rather than being restricted to the available pre-developed proprietary software, AppSpace enables system integrators, OEMs and endusers to develop their own tailor-made solutions with ‘click-and-drop’ ease. Visitors to the show will learn about applications being developed in AppSpace that are now available for wider industry use. The first is the SICK LabelChecker, an off-the-

This approach can also be used in line scan applications where the information from the different illumination sources can be captured on sequential lines on a single line scan camera and individual images for each illumination source extracted using image processing software.

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shelf label reading and verification solution based on SICK’s InspectorP vision sensor. SICK engineers perfected the application working closely with a leading European chocolate manufacturer. The all-in-one solution is based on the SICK InspectorP vision camera for reading and verifying text, numbers, bar codes and 2D codes, as well as inspecting label design and print quality. SICK engineers worked closely with the manufacturer to perfect the LabelChecker as an integral quality control system without the need for an additional evaluation unit.

CHINA INT’L MACHINE VISION EXHIBITION IN SHANGHAI

SICK will also be promoting its Inspector PIM60 URCap, an entry-level visionguided robot solution for pick and place, inspection and measurement that integrates SICK Inspector PIM60 2D vision sensors with U3, U5 and U10 robots. The SICK Inspector PIM60 URCap is simple to set up and use, yet is a powerful toolkit for creating a vision-guided robot task with minimum time and effort.

At this year’s China International Machine Vision Exhibition in Shanghai, which took place on March 14-16, VRmagic Imaging presented the LineScan3D with a field of view of 74 mm width and 76 mm height at a sub-pixel resolution in the area of 1,5 μm. This version of the GigEVision compatible 3D sensor is especially fitted for automatic optical inspection (3D AOI) of printed circuit boards.

With the Inspector PIM60 URCap, configuration tasks such as changing jobs and pick-points, calibration and alignment are done directly from the robot control pendant for speed and ease. Configuration is achieved in minutes through the UR controller or the SICK Inspector PIM60 without need for an additional PC.

LineScan3D is a 3D sensor with integrated laser, optics, protective circuitry and GigEVision interface. It has a robust IP65/67 aluminum housing, 24 V power supply, and an isolated RS485 interface for ABZ rotary encoder input and trigger. A special feature of the LineScan3D: multi-sensor setups can be realized without additional hardware.

SICK will also introduce its Trispector P Beltpick solution for enhanced picking of products on a conveyor through integrated 3D vision robot guidance. The solution offers ‘plug-and-play’ support for ABB PickMaster and Universal Robots and provides users with access to SICK AppSpace apps for belt picking applications.

Enhanced Laser Line Extraction

The Trispector P Beltpick vision guidance enables gentle robot handling of products with improved Z-axis control. The system adapts the robot’s picking action to the height of each individual product, reducing the risk of damage. UK Product Manager for Imaging, Measurement & Ranging at SICK Neil Sandhu said: “The UKIVA Show has quickly become established in the calendar as the go-to event for anyone involved in working with machine vision applications. Whether you are a machine builder, integrator or end-user, it’s a great way of seeing the latest industry developments in one visit, with a packed programme of expert demonstrations, presentations and case studies.”

Real time extraction of the laser line is carried out in the FPGA of the sensor at 1000 Hz and with an area of interest of 360 lines and 2048 points per profile. The extraction algorithm is configurable and can be adapted to suit particular applications. An optional high dynamic range (HDR) mode further enhances the laser line extraction for materials with varying surface reflectivity characteristics.

Additional Surface Inspection: Synchronous Generation of Measurement and Image Information In addition to the 3D range map, the sensor also supplies the brightness values of the laser line, the so-called intensity image. This gray value image enables efficient 2D image processing in parallel to the 3D measurement, e.g. for surface inspection or object identification via bar codes. The extracted 3D profiles and 2D image data are recorded at the same time and from exactly the same perspective – this provides optimum preconditions for combined evaluation.

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3rd European Machine Vision Forum Where research meets industry

Vision for Industry 4.0 and beyond Top invited talks, panel discussion, networking and teaser sessions for all posters & demos Submit a contributed talk by June 8, 2018 Submit a poster and/or demo by August 10, 2018 Sponsored by:

September 5-7, 2018 Bologna Business School Villa Guastavillani, Bologna, Italy

More information at

www.emva-forum.org

ÂŠGoneWithTheWind/Fotolia

FRAMOS plans to educate current and potential users about the latest advances in Machine Vision, 3D technology and Embedded Vision and provide practical solutions to industry-specific challenges at its booth. For a very easy integration of 3D technology equipping machines with human-like senses and the ability to see, sense, understand, interact, and learn, it will showcase Intel’s RealSense product suite.

HANNOVER MESSE Taking over the baton from April 23 to 27 is HANNOVER MESSE and MVTec Software, a leading provider of machine vision software, will showcase its portfolio at the show, focussing on its two flagship products HALCON and MERLIC. In the Application Park Robotics, Automation & Vision, MVTec visitors will find live demos that offer practical insights into the benefits of machine vision in Industry 4.0 (aka the Industrial Internet of Things or IIoT for short) and Smart Factory environments. This year, the focus is on innovative deep learning functions based on artificial intelligence. As for HALCON a live demo will illustrate, among other things, how advanced deep learning technologies in MVTec´s HALCON 17.12 optimize the identification of objects using optical character recognition (OCR). In addition, the demo shows how objects (various fruit in this case) can be classified precisely. The demo also demonstrates the targeted and robust detection of defects in pills. Visitors to the booth will obtain practical insights into the future-oriented application fields that deep learning offers for machine vision. The various applications can be selected directly using a touch screen. Industry managers interested in machine vision solutions will discover how easily and quickly standardized deep learning functions can be put to use at their company and how convolutional neural networks (CNNs) can be self-trained at a reasonable cost. Companies do not require highly-specialized staff with extensive machine vision knowledge for this purpose, and also save time and costs for programming.

Head of Sales Central and Eastern Europe of FRAMOS Björn Krasemann said: “Another highlight at FRAMOS’ booth will be the presentation of the SMARTEK camera series that provides USB 3.0 and GigE Vision interfaces in a robust miniature housing or at board level. Living Embedded Vison with the concept of seamless integration, SMARTEK supports standardized connectivity with enhanced processing capabilities. A user centric customization concept allows the quick and efficient adaption to almost every requirement.” The company’s booth will also include a sampling of the ISVI high-speed camera solutions with CoaxPress technology, as well as the latest imaging solutions from Emergent Vision based on 10GigE.

‘Control Vision Talks’ for Machine Vision and Optical Metrology The third EMVA Forum ‘Control Vision Talks’ for Machine Vision and Optical Metrology at Control 2018 will take place during the 32nd Control, the international trade fair for quality assurance held in Stuttgart from 24 to 26 April. The presentation forum is organised by Control show organizer PE Schall and the European Machine Vision Association. They say that the ‘Control Vision Talks’ aim to demonstrate the advantages of machine vision and optical metrology for quality assurance in an application-oriented manner. They will be held during the first three show days and offer more than 30 presentations on applied machine vision and optical metrology for quality assurance in German or English language.

With MERLIC, another live demo shows how the software runs on an ADLINK smart camera. Here, deep-learning-based OCR functions are used to exactly recognize a wide variety of fonts on packaging, such as expiry dates or batch numbers, just in fractions of a second.

Framos Global imaging provider FRAMOS will be presenting its full imaging portfolio with focus on cameras and industrial solutions, including Intel’s RealSense Technology at in Hannover.

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THE AIA VISION SHOW 2018 This magazine should be just on the streets when The AIA Vision Show kicks off so here’s hoping it’s a good event in Boston. This is billed as North America’s largest showcase of machine vision and imaging components and solutions. The organisers say that you won’t just see new products, you’ll see new technologies from industry leading vendors! The accompanying conference features practical, real-world training that visitors can implement right away.

CHII2018 Don’t forget to include chii2018 in your diaries (6 – 7 June 2018, Graz, Austria) if Hyperspectral Imaging is your thing. This conference was a great success last year and it set to be a must-attend event for those in this sector.

AUTOMATICA 2018 I’ll kick this section off with slight moan. Oh how I wish the organisers of this event, which takes place in Munich in mid-June would have used a capital ‘A’ for the title. I’ve lost count the times my computer spell check has insisted on a cap A and dropped the ‘a’ at the rear to give me automatic. Still, leaving that side for the time being, this is set to be a very interesting event which will take in many elements of the machine vision and robotic industries. The organisers describe it as the world’s leading marketplace for automated production which pools the world’s largest range of industrial and service robotics, assembly systems, machine vision and automation components. The focus is on the digital transformation of manufacturing, human-robot collaboration, service robotics and the future of work.

networked with each other and throughout a company. This creates multi-site, flexible production systems, which not only produce automatically, but which also control themselves as well as service and maintain themselves to a great extent. The consulting company PwC estimated in a recent study that German industry will invest an average of 3.3 percent of its annual sales in Industry 4.0 solutions over the next five years. This corresponds to almost 50 percent of the planned new equipment investments and an annual investment of more than 40 billion euros relative to the entire German industry. In order for Industry 4.0 applications to function, companies must invest in IoT platforms, among other things, which connect the machines to the Internet as well as safeguard, analyze and control them and provide the necessary interfaces for access to applications and other systems. In a survey conducted among 385 IT decision makers primarily from the manufacturing sector in autumn of 2017 by IDG, 57 percent of the respondents stated that IoT platforms are an indispensable technology. It is already used by approx. 22 percent of respondents. In combination with IoT, those surveyed cited security technologies (53 percent) and cloud computing (48 percent) as also essential. In the same study, 64 percent of respondents estimated the importance of IoT for their own company as “very high” or “high”.

IT and automation in production Nevertheless, the manufacturing sector is considered as only “moderately” digitalized with 42 index points, according to the Monitoring Report Wirtschaft Digital. According to the investigation conducted by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, this industry is consequently lagging significantly behind comparatively highly digitalized sectors such as the information technology and telecommunications industry and providers of financial and insurance service.

automatica has a new integrated subject area, IT2Industry It focuses on the interplay between automation and information technology, a core component of digital automation and robotics. The idea is that IT2Industry provides companies with guidance on current digitalization trends in industry, promising strategies and important IoT technologies. The organisers explained that the industrial Internet of things (the Industry 4.0 concept) will play the leading role in the future. Highly complex, automated production machines and robots are

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This lagging behind has various causes, and the high complexity of digitalizing production is certainly one of them. Digitalization presents two main challenges for industry: the digitalization of production and the digitalization of business models and processes. The digitalization of production is the focus of automatica 2018. This involves linking complex, highly-automated production machines and robots “intelligently” with state-of-the-art IT and Internet connectivity to get the best of two worlds: the low cost of mass production with substantial customer proximity and customization of solutions for craft enterprises or factories. IT2Industry, the subject area of automatica, consequently brings together two worlds: IT and automation. In this area, something is actually growing together now, which belongs together in times of digitalization. In the subject area IT2Industry, not only relevant software and hardware providers, integrators and consultancies are exhibiting, but there will also be intensive discussions about robotic automation, big data, cloud, security and of course IoT. The exhibitors include both traditional IT vendors such as Trend Micro Deutschland and proALPHA Business Consulting as well as companies that offer practical industry 4.0/IoT applications or platforms, for example, Essert, WidasConcepts, fabrikado and SW Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen.

“The industry is still on a growth path. In Germany alone, growth in the machine vision industry in 2017 provisionally amounted to 18 per cent. Throughout Europe turnover in the machine vision industry rose by between 12 and 14 per cent last year. All the forecasts point to another successful year in 2018,” said Florian Niethammer, Team Director at Messe Stuttgart. Over 450 exhibitors are again expected to take part in VISION 2018. More than 300 companies from all over the world have already registered for the trade fair. They include market leaders such as Basler, Cognex, ISRA Vision, MVTec, Teledyne DALSA, Sony and Stemmer Imaging. The first-time exhibitors include, for example, Connect Tech (Canada), Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik (Germany), Genesi Elettronica (Italy) and Neadvance Machine Vision (Portugal). In addition to traditional industrial applications, non-industrial applications have also become much more important in the last few years. The exhibitors will therefore present, for example, applications for the areas of traffic, food and beverage technology, and medical technology. Machine vision is also gaining ground in the agricultural sector, for example in sorting tasks during or after harvesting, in so-called precision farming or through greater use of drones.

VISION 2018 Let´s not forget this is the year of the industry’s main European event which is held every two years in Stuttgart. And the organisers of Vision 2018 are already churning out the PR to whet our appetites.

Special synergy potential and mutual exchange opportunities will be created here this year due to Intervitis Interfructa Hortitechnica, the technology trade fair for wine, fruit juice and special crops, which will be held concurrently with VISION.

The backdrop to the 2018 iteration of the show is an industry which is on the up.

“We have an exciting VISION year ahead of us, all the signs still point towards growth. The industry is also preoccupied with the megatrends of embedded vision and deep learning,” added Niethammer.

“The prospects are highly promising,” said the organisers recently during the joint CEO Round Table of Messe Stuttgart and the VDMA Machine Vision Association at the Stuttgart television tower.

The Vision 2018 organisers expanded on their theme. With embedded vision, machine vision intelligence is migrating from external PCs into devices. The biggest drivers of embedded vision

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technology at present include autonomous driving, but also integrated face and object recognition in smart cameras or surveillance cameras. In machine vision it is therefore possible, for example, to integrate intelligent camera modules in machines or robots, thus making them an indispensable component in the implementation of the smart factory. Deep learning is a radically new approach for solving image recognition tasks in future. Unlike current processes, these self-learning systems are taught a large number of images and scenarios which they can access during testing in the production process and therefore recognise the smallest possible deviations. These systems are therefore being continuously optimised still further. “The successful première of the Embedded Vision Europe Conference in Stuttgart last autumn was a foretaste of what companies will present in regard to these topics on their stands in November 2018,” added Niethammer. One focus for this year’s show will be what the organisers of Vision 2018 describe as currently one of the most innovative fields of development in machine vision, hyperspectral imaging. Systems based on this technology are extremely innovative and open up new applications for machine vision which up to now could not be realised with traditional systems. Hyperspectral Imaging represents a growth segment within the growing machine vision industry. The potential of this relatively young discipline, is estimated to be huge said Vision 2018. Markus Burgstaller, CEO of Perception Park, describes the key difference to traditional vision systems as follows: “Hyperspectral systems offer a spectrum for each object pixel instead of a monochrome or colour value compared to traditional machine vision systems. Depending on the wavelength range and spectroscopic processing, high-precision colour coordinates, chemical material properties, but also coating thickness information can be derived from the spectral data. The output information of such a camera has a significantly higher degree of complexity, but also allows greater diversity and selectivity in terms of manageable applications.” Dr Jan Makowski, President of LuxFlux , added: “Whereas traditional RGB cameras only depict the colours red, green and blue, hyperspectral cameras make it possible to distinguish between more than one hundred colours. With such high-precision colour measurement the properties of materials can be examined and chemicals can be made visible.”

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Diverse fields of application Tim Huylebrouck, Product Manager at Stemmer Imaging, indicates the type of possible applications behind this method: “Supposed identical objects can reflect completely different light spectrums owing to their chemical properties – stimulated by a broadband light source. They can then be distinguished with hyperspectral systems. No other machine vision solution can do this.” Dr Georg Meissner, Managing Director of Specim, mentions one application as an example: “ZenRobotics is a leading global provider of robot-supported systems for waste separation. As the rubbish that is sorted in such plants often contains hazardous materials such as asbestos, it is important to safely and reliably identify such substances. That’s why ZenRobotics relies on hyperspectral cameras from Specim, which have the necessary detection reliability, sensitivity and speed for this task.” Gion-Pitschen Gross, Product Manager at Allied Vision, also sees the area of recycling and sorting of plastics as an important application for hyperspectral systems: “HSI makes possible the automatic separation of plastic parts, for example polyethylene and polypropylene, which can be detected and separated on the basis of their chemical composition. In addition to existing colour sorting, materials can also be distinguished by their molecular properties. The quality of results in the sorting process is thus significantly increased.” According to Gross, the inspection of foodstuffs also offers huge potential for the HSI technology: “Meat, fat and bones have different molecular properties which can be clearly recognised in a HSI image. This also applies to other materials which have hardly any differences in the real image, like the almost identical foodstuffs sugar, salt and citric juice.” “For cameras in the visible spectral range it is also difficult to detect physical changes to objects. This plays a big role, for example in the food industry, when fruit or vegetables are to be inspected for their degree of ripeness or possible mould. Here HSI systems offer suitable solutions, which Allied Vision addresses with its hyperspectral cameras in the Goldeye series, among others.” Daniel Hofmann, CEO of the Spanish company Photonfocus-Tochter Solpi, expects a breakthrough in the future of HSI applications with mobile carrier systems such as Precision Farming by means of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles): “Camera systems can be installed on a drone, for example, in order to enable photogrammetry or inspection applications.

Such a camera system may consist of several hyperspectral cameras, a GPS system, an embedded computer and lots more. The pictures taken have accurate GPS data to simplify subsequent machine vision.” Solpi offers a camera system that allows the use of several hyperspectral cameras in an independent grabbing solution.

Challenges of HSI Imaging Despite this and other promising application examples, Hyperspectral Imaging is at the moment still one of the exotic disciplines of machine vision. One reason for this is the number of challenges that still have to be overcome before the technology can be used comprehensively. The currently still relatively high price for hyperspectral technology is also one of the main entry barriers. On top of this is the fact that the entire technology is not easy to understand and often requires in-depth specialist knowledge in the area of spectroscopy. Stemmer Imaging Product Manager Huylebrouck also mentions the topic of lights and illumination as another challenge: “Hyperspectral Imaging does not work with the LED lights and illumination often used in machine vision, but with halogen lamps which emit a wide wavelength spectrum. There is still a need for suitable illumination here.” In addition, the lights must have protective glass, e.g. in applications in the food industry, which cannot be made from actual glass in this industry because of safety standards. “However, other materials distort the spectrums. A few tricks are needed here”, explains Huylebrouck. According to many experts, these reasons as well as the lack of high-performance hyperspectral software, reliable spectral data and experience are leading to a somewhat hesitant expansion of this new technology at the moment.

Trends and further developments Nevertheless, the innovative opportunities of the technology are prompting many companies to work intensely on further developments in this area. “We are observing a trend towards the reduction of systems, whereby it must be ensured here that this is not at the expense of the performance. The future will indicate what limits are set here” states Hilmar Krüger, Sales Manager at inno-spec. Perception Park Burgstaller lists some other current approaches: “In terms of other machine vision technologies, the trend is heading

towards Embedded also for Hyperspectral Imaging. The cameras are becoming smaller and more affordable and in combination with new machine vision technologies will allow use in handheld devices like future smartphones in the foreseeable future.” With the addition of a pre-processor HSI cameras are also becoming “smart” and make possible the pre-processing of the hyperspectral data volume as well as the extraction and transfer of the relevant information such as chemical or physical object information per object pixel. “This will lead to much greater acceptance thanks to the possible standard interfaces”, added Burgstaller. The combination with approaches from artificial intelligence and especially the topic of Deep Learning will also advance the technology significantly, believes Burgstaller: “In the future HSI systems will learn by means of chemical and physical information and thus ensure greater simplification of the application of Hyperspectral Imaging systems.” Gross from Allied Vision agreed: “In the future it should be possible to detect materials solely based on their spectral signature, without the need for training.” The hyperspectral software Perception Studio from Perception Park already provides an intuitive software suite for the recording, modelling and analysis of hyperspectral data. For Specim´s Meissner, Hyperspectral Imaging is increasingly becoming a widely used and established segment of machine vision and quality inspections as a result of these numerous trends. “The technical advances in this area will very soon lead to higher image capture rates as well as probably also wider spectral ranges and more compact camera sizes.”

HSI at VISION And for Florian Niethammer, VISION Team Leader at Messe Stuttgart, Hyperspectral Imaging is therefore one of the most exciting and fascinating topics of VISION 2018: “HSI systems are extremely innovative and open up new applications for machine vision which up to now could not be realised with traditional systems. The topic will therefore play a key role at this year’s VISION from 6 to 8 November 2018 in Stuttgart. In addition to numerous exhibitors, who will present their HSI products and solutions, several presentations within the framework of “Industrial VISION Days” also give interested visitors the opportunity to obtain information about this technology and generate ideas for possible applications.”

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KEY CONFERENCE DIARY The Vision Show

April 10-12

Hynes Convention Center, Boston, MA

Hannover Messe (4.0/ Automation)

April 23-27

Hannover Messe, Germany

32nd Control

April 24-26

Stuttgart

UKIVA Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition

May 16

Arena MK, Milton Keynes, UK

chii2018

June 6-7

Graz, Austria

automatica

June 19-22

WaldstraĂ&#x;e 3, 88214 Ravensburg, Munich

Vision

Nov 6-8

Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH, Messepiazza 1

Cobots & Advanced Vision

Nov 15-16

San Jose, US

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EMBEDDED VISION Conquering the embedded world

The topic at the VDMA panel discussion during the recent embedded vision event in Nuremburg was “Migration from PC to Embedded & from Embedded to Vision.” And according to panel participants, Embedded Vision is a promising mega trend. They explained that in recent years, machine vision technology has become an integral part of industrial automation. However, for everyday applications it is frequently too expensive. At present, this situation is going through a highly dynamic change: “Embedded Vision has the potential to reduce the costs of vision systems dramatically. This technology could truly enable machines in our everyday live to see,” Arndt Bake, Chief Marketing Officer at Basler AG pointed out during the discussion.

“EMBEDDED VISION HAS THE POTENTIAL TO REDUCE THE COSTS OF VISION SYSTEMS DRAMATICALLY.”

The success already noticeable today results from the fact that that a series of internationally leading hardware manufacturers have recognised the potential and developed corresponding products. Processors with integrated, optimised computing performance for machine vision algorithms, image sensors specifically designed for embedded applications and specially adapted camera modules are only some of the hardware elements currently driving the success of Embedded Vision systems. The panel discussion concluded with the view that the availability of high-performance hardware and software at competitive prices and growing users’ knowhow will clearly accelerate the application of embedded vision systems in the near future.

Embedded world VDMA also provided an update on how embedded world went. It was larger again in 2018, with more trade visitors, more space and more exhibitors. 1,021 (+1%) companies from around the world, occupying six exhibition halls, showed more than 32,217 (+7,3%) embedded experts from 77 countries where the journey in the Internet of Things and the increasingly digitalised world is leading. The latest developments encompassed more than just the exhibition halls: the embedded world Conference and electronic displays Conference also enjoyed record participation, with 2,176 participants and speakers from 52 countries, and impressed the experts with their first-class, high-quality professional programmes. This was also the 14th time that the embedded award has been presented for innovative and visionary products.

Dr Olaf Munkelt, Managing Director at MVTec Software GmbH, is also convinced of the potential of Embedded Vision: “Today’s embedded platforms are an inexpensive, compact and energy-saving alternative for PC-based systems for entire classes of machine vision applications. From a user’s point of view, in particular outlay for transition and/or integration, must be kept low. “Standard software for embedded vision makes a decisive contribution if their complete key features are made available and transparent on PC-based systems as well as embedded vision platforms. Thus, opportunity costs can be avoided, and development times reduced.” As Embedded Vision systems are based on very powerful computer platforms with low energy requirements they can be used in many new fields of application which have so far not been covered either by PCbased or by intelligent machine vision systems.

Dr Olaf Munkelt, Managing Director at MVTec Software GmbH

Arndt Bake, Chief Marketing Officer at Basler AG

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STORIES FROM THE CRADLE OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION BROUGHT TO THE DIGITAL AGE A case study from Matrox Imaging whose software and frame grabber has helped Bookscanner SA improve image acquisition frequency rate in a challenging vision system

Originating in the Holy Roman Empire, the printing press was perfected in 1440, and quickly established itself as one of the most influential inventions of the millennium1, drastically reducing the cost and time involved with printing books and documents. The printing press helped advance the spread of mass communications, and by the Renaissance, millions of books were in wide publication1. Printed works need to be digitized for preservation and propagation. Bookscanner SA is the manufacturer of Bookscanner scanning equipment, which is suitable for automatically digitizing printed material up to A1 page size. The scanning equipment makes use of state-of-the-art methods to precisely and reliably reproduce printed pages. Their primary clients are private and national libraries, with typical collections numbering about 5,000 volumes; these clients each face challenges with the time-consuming and laborintensive process of digitizing these works. George Pistikos—an electrical and computer engineer with more than 20 years of experience developing information and computer systems—founded Bookscanner SA with the aim to “relieve humanity from repetitive and tedious jobs using cutting-edge robotics techniques.”

One for the books For their installation in Greece, Bookscanner SA sought to enhance their services by updating their technology. Their camera of choice was the Teledyne e2v ELiiXA+, a 16K CoaXpress® linescan camera with resolutions up to 600 dpi. In researching compatible software and hardware components, Bookscanner SA discovered that Matrox Imaging offers a compatible, plug-and-play solution built on the robust Matrox Imaging Library (MIL) platform. MIL-Lite, a subset of MIL, includes a range of programming functions for image capture, display, and annotation; the application programming interface (API) is simple to use and supports the most common programming languages, including C++, C#, and Visual

Basic®. Paired with the Matrox Radient eV-CXP frame grabber, this solution formed the spine of Bookscanner’s machine vision infrastructure.

A real page-turner The design of the Bookscanner system comprises a metal enclosure with a glass surface—this moves along the horizontal axis and has pistons for the page’s elevation, plus sensors which monitor the proper operation of the process. A metal rod prevents the closing of the book as it moves horizontally along the glass surface; the arm-mounted line-scan camera follows the book’s trajectory during the scan. Below this glass surface, two metal sheets move via a vertically moving pulley running the length of the glass surface. Servo motors (Fujitsu Alpha 5 Smart) power the Bookscanner equipment, allowing for gentle handling of each physical book to avoid any wear-and-tear, all while achieving high operating speeds of 1 m/s. Their challenge was to synchronize the movement of the Servo motor in tandem with the image acquisition frequency rate; this synchronization was necessary to avoid any distortion of the final image. A team of computer, mechanical, and electrical engineers—namely Pistikos, along with Dr. Antonios Gasteratos, Petros Teneketzis, and Antonios Arvanitidis— combined expertise in robotics and machine vision systems to design the Bookscanner vision system. Development took about four months; the vision system was designed to be largely autonomous in operation. The operator must select the desired dpi for the output resolution level, and the scanning speed according to the fragility of the book. “The I/O capabilities of the Matrox Radient frame grabber was absolutely necessary to our project,” said Arvanitidis. “Synchronizing the movement of the servo motor and the image acquisition frequency rate was the biggest challenge of this system. We reached out to the Matrox Imaging technical support team via email, receiving quick and accurate responses to our

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support needs. Matrox offers a friendly framework for integrating low-level servo encoder output signals with the input signals of the ELiiXA+ camera in order to trigger the image acquisition.” This functionality proved to be the turning point of this storyline.

A display of tremendous book smarts With the system fully functional and deployed, the R&D department of Bookscanner SA is hard at work on the next release of the vision system’s software, introducing the ability to correct image distortion with neural networks. “This enhancement will help increase our customer base, allowing us to work with more fragile books without risk of stretching or damaging the paper,” Gasteratos noted. Bookscanner SA is excited at the prospect of adding new machine vision techniques to the advanced robotics industry, with plans to expand their solution on both the hardware and software sides. Teneketzis affirmed that, “the machine vision techniques will be one of our main focus areas for the product. New capabilities—like grabbing based on image/pattern recognition—are going to be introduced, and Matrox Imaging will be a good partner in order to achieve our goals.”

Image 1: Overview of the Bookscanner vision system, comprising the Matrox Radient eV-CXP frame grabber, Teledyne e2v ELiiXA+ line-scan camera, and glass-scanning surface

Conclusion Incorporating MIL-Lite and the Radient eV-CXP frame grabber into the Bookscanner system afforded an opportunity to connect high-level software abstraction with low-level electronics management; this facilitated operator changes and improved overall system functionality. With the addition of the Matrox Imaging products, Bookscanner SA reduced their development time by nearly six months, and protected their budget from additional expenses. Arvanitidis concluded, “We gained time, established the necessary communication, and successfully overcame this challenge of upgrading our vision system, thanks to the plug-and-play nature of the MIL-Lite software.”

Image 2: A primary challenge of the system was synchronizing component movements in tandem with the image acquisition frequency rate, to avoid distortions in the final image

References 1. Marshall McLuhan, The Gutenberg Galaxy: The Making of Typographic Man (1st ed.), (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1962).

Acknowledgements The following individuals were invaluable in their contributions to development of the Bookscanner SA vision system: Dr. Antonios Gasteratos, professor and head of the production and management department at Democritus University of Thrace, for his knowledge of computer vision and robotics. Petros Teneketzis, mechanical engineer, who brought expertise in mechanics, dynamics, and CAD systems.

Image 3: The Bookscanner equipment balances gentle handling of each book to avoid any wear-and-tear, while achieving high scanning speeds

Antonios Arvanitidis, electrical and computer engineer, for his knowledge of software and hardware design and development, control systems, and machine vision.

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PUBLIC VISION BASLER DAZZLES, IPO SUCCESS FOR STEMMER IMAGING AND COGNEX DELIVERS Editor Neil Martin takes a look at Basler’s full year results, the recent STE M M E R I MAGI NG I PO and Cognex´ s financial figures

Basler sees sales grow by 54% Global manufacturer of industrial cameras Basler (Ahrensburg, Germany) has grown sales to €150.2m from €97.5m, up 54% for the fiscal year 2017. EBITDA was €40m, up 113% from €18.8m and pre-tax profits came in at €29.8m from €11.4m in 2016, up 161%. Guidance for 2018 is sales between €145m to $160m, with a pre-tax return rate of between 13 to 15%.

“IN FISCAL YEAR 2017, GROUP’S SALES RECORDED AN EXTRAORDINARILY STRONG GROWTH OF…” In an audited annual report statement which accompanied its figures, Basler said: “In fiscal year 2017, group’s sales recorded an extraordinarily strong growth of 54 % to €150.2 million (previous year: €97.5 million). Thus, Basler grew more than two times stronger than the German industry for image processing components which grew by 24%.

This is statistically recorded by the VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau, German Engineering Federation) and represents a key indicator for the global market development. Therefore, in the elapsed fiscal year, Basler again gained market shares and expanded its market leadership. “The pre-tax result amounted to €29.8 million (previous year: €11.4 million, +161%) and the pre-tax rate of return to 19.8 % (previous year: 11.7%). With these results, the upper end of the guidance previously communicated

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by the company has been achieved. The net result per share increased from €2.45 to €6.74. “The cash flow from operational activity amounted to €28.4 million (previous year: €16.1 million, +76%). The free cash flow, calculated as the difference between the cash flows from operational activity and investments, reached a value of €18.6 million (previous year: €8.1 million, +130 %). “With a growth of 68 new employees, the staff was considerably augmented in the fiscal year 2017. For 2018, the company plans to hire over 100 new employees, mainly at the Ahrensburg location, as well as in Asia in order to lay the foundation for further growth in the upcoming years. “Against the background of a positive annual result 2017, the company will propose to this year’s shareholders’ meeting the distribution of a dividend of €2.02 per share. This corresponds to a distribution ratio of 30%. “After the extraordinarily positive market development and the very strong growth of Basler in 2017 – in particular for factory applications in Asia – for fiscal year 2018 the management board currently expects a slight onedigit market growth and sales revenues for the Basler group within a corridor of €145 – 160 million. On the result side, the company plans with a pre-tax return rate of 13 – 15% depending on the sales development. Given the very high momentum in the sales markets and the limited visibility of the business development in the second half-year, the current range of the sales corridor is relatively broad. The management strives for giving a more precise corridor in the course of the fiscal year.”

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STEMMER IMAGING IPO good news for market The fact that STEMMER IMAGING got its IPO successfully on its way is not only good news for the company itself, but also for the machine vision industry. There was a healthy demand for the shares and the shares kicked off with a nice premium on the first day of trading. Priced at €34 per share, the shares rose to A tad over €36, a 7% UPLIFT. Pricing is an art form and the advisers should be congratulated. No premium, or horror of horrors, a discount on the first day of trading shows that the takers have been bulldozed into a stock they don´t really want. Too much of a premium and those selling stock to feed the IPO feel they´ve been robbed. A small premium pleases everyone and means there are no red faces. The stock will undoubtedly be tightly controlled (it’s currently trading at €37 per share (as I write this) so as long as there are no shocks, then expect the price to remain at decent levels for the next 12 months. Advisers also tell public company newbies that they had better know their figures for the first 12 months. Announce a profits warning in the first year and a company will find itself in the deep freezer unit with few friends. The new management of STEMMER IMAGING will also quickly understand the rigors of having a public company status, when failure, as well as success, has to be duly and regularly reported to the market and shareholders. There is no hiding when you have a public quote.

I’m due to talk to CEO of STEMMER IMAGING Christof Zollitsch over the next few weeks, so I´ll be sure to ask him how he’s looking forward to the future as head of a listed company. Of course, IPOs are really about increasing a company’s profile and using the new money raised to fund growth. With a healthy pile of cash, Zollitsch will no doubt have his eye on a few acquisitions. At the time of the announcement, the company said the money raised will be “… used for the realization of inorganic growth potentials to strengthen the competitive position in the European market.” From other comments made, it’s also clear that they are looking to Asia for deals. The challenge for any management team at the moment, in such a buoyant market, is not paying top dollar on every deal. Well positioned machine vision companies will only be too aware that in such a buzzing sector, they will have a decent price tag on their heads. Which takes me back to the point that this IPO reflects well on the industry and it will be interesting to see how many other companies of a size that could seek a listing, will go down that route, or make known they could be for sale, or continue on as private concerns. We, as they say, live in interesting times.

PUBLIC VISION

Revenue

Income/(loss) from Continuing Operations

Income/(loss) per share from Continuing Operations

Non-GAAP Income/(loss) per share from Continuing Operations*

Current quarter: Q4-17

$180,365,000

($26,897,000)

($0.16)

$0.25

Prior year’s quarter: Q4-16

$129,322,000

$38,253,000

$0.22

$0.20

39%

(170%)

(173%)

25%

$259,739,000

$102,348,000

$0.57

$0.51

(31%)

(126%)

(128%)

(51%)

Year ended 12/31/2017

$747,950,000

$177,178,000

$0.99

$1.22

Year ended 12/31/2016

$520,753,000

$149,827,000

$0.86

$0.79

Change: 2016 to 2017

44%

18%

15%

54%

Quarterly Comparisons

Change: Q4-16 to Q4-17 Prior quarter: Q3-17 Change: Q3-17 to Q4-17 Annual Comparisons

*Excludes tax adjustments. A reconciliation from GAAP to Non-GAAP is shown in Exhibit 2 of this news release.

Cognex delivers Cognex, a leader in the machine vision sector, has reported record revenue, earnings and EPS for 2017. It has announced financial results for the fourthquarter and full-year of 2017. The table above shows selected financial data for Q4-17 compared with Q416 and Q3-17, and the year ended December 31, 2017 compared with the year ended December 31, 2016. An official statement from the company said that as regards the year in summary: “For 2017, Cognex reported record financial results from continuing operations, even with the impact of U.S. tax reform. Each of the three largest industries contributing to revenue—consumer electronics, automotive and logistics—showed double-

digit growth, as did all the company’s major geographic regions. Operating income expanded to 35% of revenue from 31% for 2016, even as the company invested for future growth.” Founder and Chairman of Cognex Dr Robert J Shillman said: “We set new records for annual revenue, net income and earnings per share, all from continuing operations. Our commitment to our longterm strategy continues to deliver impressive results.” CEO Robert J Willett added: “Our 2017 achievements reflect the hard work of Cognoids around the world and the entrepreneurial spirit that is an integral part of our corporate culture. We celebrate our success while staying focused on the long term. We believe the markets for our products continue to have significant growth

potential as manufacturers look to automate a broadening range of industrial tasks. “Market dynamics were strong in 2017 and that has continued into the first quarter of 2018. Even though Q1 will likely be the lowest revenue quarter of the year, we will invest in new product development, expand our sales force and develop our IT and other infrastructure so that we are ready for the growth we expect in the years to come.”

Fourth quarter 2017 The statement also outlined the details of the fourth quarter of 2017: •

Cognex reported record fourth quarter revenue in 2017. Revenue increased 39% from Q4-16 and declined 31% from Q317. Year-on-year growth came from a variety of

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industries, including consumer electronics, logistics and automotive. The sequential decrease was due to the Q3-17 timing of large orders from the consumer electronics industry. Outside that industry, revenue increased by more than 10% on a sequential basis; •

•

Q4-17 resulted primarily from the revaluation and settlement of accounts receivable balances reported in one currency and collected in another; •

gross margin was 77% for Q4-17 compared with 76% for Q3-17 and 79% for Q4-16. Gross margin decreased year-on-year due primarily to higher service revenue in Q417. The increase on a sequential basis is due to a higher margin on product sales than in Q3-17; RD&E expenses increased 39% from Q4-16 and 3% from Q3-17. RD&E increased both year-onyear and sequentially due to additional engineering resources and product development costs; Selling, General & Administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 41% from Q4-16 and decreased 1% from Q3-17. SG&A increased year-on-year due to investments in sales resources and higher employeerelated costs, including commissions and travel. The sequential decrease was a result of the timing of marketing initiatives; Cognex reported foreign currency losses of $1,027,000 in Q4-17 and $127,000 in Q3-17, and a foreign currency gain of $478,000 in Q4-16. The foreign currency loss in

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•

investment and other income was $2,923,000 in Q4-17, $2,476,000 in Q4-16 and $2,030,000 in Q3-17. Investment income increased both year-on-year and sequentially because of higher yields and a higher average invested balance. Also contributing to the increase on a sequential basis was an expense in Q3-17 associated with changes to the fair value of contingent consideration related to recent acquisitions; the effective tax rate was 150% in Q4-17, 11% in Q416 and 9% in Q3-17. Prior to the new U.S. tax law in December 2017, the tax rate was 18% in all periods presented, excluding tax adjustments. Notably, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 resulted in a tax adjustment in Q4-17 of $83 million. This amount includes estimated U.S. tax on unrepatriated foreign earnings, the revaluation of net deferred tax assets to the new lower U.S. tax rate, and the recharacterization of certain income under the law. The impact of U.S. tax reform may differ from this estimated tax adjustment, and the estimated charges may accordingly be adjusted over the course of 2018.

Outlook As regards the financial outlook for the first quarter of 2018, the company said: •

Revenue for Q1-18 is expected to be between $165 million and $175 million, which represents growth between 19% and 26% year-onyear. On a sequential basis, Cognex expects the typical seasonal decline from Q4 to Q1 in factory automation.

•

Gross margin is expected to be in the mid-70% range, which is within Cognex’s target range for gross margin under the new revenue recognition standard.

•

Operating expenses are expected to increase by midsingle digits on a sequential basis due primarily to the company’s investments in engineering and sales.

•

The effective tax rate is expected to be 14% before discrete tax items, reflecting the new U.S. corporate tax rate.

Cognex The company has shipped more than 1.5 million vision-based products, representing over $5bn in cumulative revenue, since the company’s founding in 1981. Headquartered in Natick, Massachusetts, it has offices and distributors located throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. Cognex designs, develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of image-based products, all of which use artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. Products include machine vision systems, machine vision sensors and barcode readers that are used in factories and distribution centres around the world.

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MAXXVISION SETS ITS SIGHTS ON HIKVISION Stuttgart based MaxxVision has decided to distribute the Hikvision range of machine vision components. MVPro asks why

whole career in machine vision market. This goes through the complete supply chain, from marketing to packaging.” When it comes to pricing, it was also clear: “Due to Hikvision being the biggest customer of Sony sensors in the world and having enormous purchase volume for all electronical components there is a very positive effect on the pricing of all the machine vision components they provide. But we consider this as a positive effect on costs, not the key argument for choosing Hikvision. Moving onto to the benefits of Hikvision cameras: “Our engineers have evaluated deeply on the cameras. MaxxVision, based in Stuttgart and one of the leading European distributors for image processing cameras and components, is to distribute the Hikvision range of cameras and for General Manager Sayed Soliman, it wasn’t a tough decision. He said: “Hikvision covers the full range of machine vision components: from cameras, lenses, telecentric lenses up to 3D sensors, smart cameras,

zoom camera modules and vision boxes. Their roadmap is picked of products that allow us to provide solutions for our customers from one hand one source. The company’s innovation power is impressive, accompanied by a high level of professionalism. “Honestly, I have rarely experienced that kind of professionalism from a manufacturer before in my

They are very easy to integrate in customer’s environments, such as plug and play, and provide benefits with true value.” When it comes to Hikvision’s position as a leader of CCTV manufacturing in Europe and the question as to why distributors think they will also succeed in the field of imaging processing, Sayed is clear: “Within only few years Hikvision established as number one in CCTV camera manufacturing bringing it to a global turnover of

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almost 6,5 billion US $ in 2017. They have proved their ability to succeed in very fast time in a new market. Due to their engineering and production capacity as well as their technical knowledge they will surely become a global player also for machine vision.”

•

smart cameras and 3D sensors;

•

vision boxes;

•

optics (both entocentric and telecentric lenses);

•

illumination (all forms and variants);

One of the reasons for this success said Sayed is “… the enormous manpower of Hikvision. They have more than 20,000 employees, among them there are around 10,000 skilled engineers only working for R&D. This allows them to react very fast on any requirements and demands from the market, and optimize every aspect of manufacturing in shortest time.”

•

frame grabbers and interface boards;

•

DVR (digital video recorder).

For Sayed and his team, Hikvision is the perfect fit and will join MaxxVision’s existing portfolio which consists of: •

•

cameras: supporting all relevant interfaces such as GigE Vision, 10 GigE Vision, USB3 Vision, CoaXPress, CameraLink and analogue; zoom camera modules and board level cameras for OEM integration;

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In addition to off-the-shelf components, MaxxVision provides customized solutions, right up to completely designed vision systems that fit individual needs. The company supports its customers with a professional service that covers all requirements and applications. As well as targeting ‘DACH’ countries, which is Germany, Austria and Switzerland, MaxxVision also supplies customers throughout Europe. Sayed explained their approach: “By creating a network of renowned

suppliers over the world, MaxxVision is able to provide a broad range of products and solutions that fit both to customers technical requirements, even if very specified, and budget. Among its partners you can find camera manufacturers like Sony, ToshibaTeli or IO Industries, the range of MaxxVision’s illuminations portfolio is provided by IMAC and OPT whereas for the optics, MaxxVision cooperates with big lens manufacturers like Tamron, Fujifilm, Myuton and others.”

For more details contact: Sayed Soliman General Manager MaxxVision Tel: +4971199799647 info@maxxvision.com www.maxxvision.com

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ALRAD GEARS UP FOR BUSY YEAR As Ian Alderton, Technical Sales Director at Alrad Instruments prepares for a second Machine Vision Conference in Milton Keynes in May, he tells MVPro Magazine what’s keeping him busy

In addition to the “traditional” industrial camera designs, The Imaging Source also offers cameras for more specialist applications, such as onetouch autofocus models and zoom cameras with zoom optics built into a customised housing.

Alrad Instruments is a well-known company within the machine vision sector, and works with integrators and users to get the optimum solution for their application and budget.

Ian said: “Board cameras are becoming more popular, as single board cameras, now with a choice of digital interfaces, can easily be built into finished OEM instruments”. “CCD is still the right solution for particular applications where good sensitivity is

more important than dynamic range and in 4:3 applications the still popular Sony IMX445 EXview 1/3” sensor provides a very competitive solution.” For those users who still want to use their existing analogue cameras but with USB2 functionality, there is the ever popular converter box, supplied with user friendly and versatile TIS software. Ian continued: “An up-andcoming interface is CoaXPress, where we have single channel cameras from Omron Sentech and the low cost frame grabber, Aon from BitFlow, giving digital data and power over a single coax cable up to 100m long, replacing Analogue solutions in some applications that needed the long cable length as well as high resolution and high framerate”.

When it comes to cameras, Ian told us that The Imaging Source is expanding their range with new sensors including all the versions of the Sony CMOS Pregius (global shutter) and Starvis (rolling shutter) sensors, together with the OnSemi Python in USB 3 and GigE cameras, as well as continuing with the popular USB2 cameras.

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“With multi-channel CXP now going to an even higher resolution, ISVI now have two new models, ICX50S-CXP and IC-X50TCXP - their new flagship 50 Megapixel cameras.” Some attributes of these cameras include colour and monochrome models with 8/10/12 bit selectable output, and the Thermoelectric Cooling (TEC) “T” variants, making them possibly the first 50MP TEC camera with a frame rate of 30fps. A wide variety of specialist applications include: •

LED/OLED and flat panel display inspection;

•

electronics inspection;

•

semiconductor and large object metrology;

•

aerial imaging;

•

wide-area surveillance;

• microscopy; •

biomedical applications where long integration times are required, especially well-suited for the ‘T’ model;

Ian added: “These ISVI cameras have already been selected by a major Korean electronics manufacturer, after extensive testing against competitors’ 50MP cameras.”

Alrad also offer very competitively priced Tucsen research and microscopy cameras featuring high performance scientific CMOS sensors, with very high Quantum Efficiency, in both cooled and non-cooled versions. Ian continued: “we also offer SWIR (Short Wavelength Infra Red) cameras with detection in the 900-1900nm region, beyond silicon based sensors. Like most SWIR cameras they use InGaAs sensors, but our cameras from NIT have a major advantage of a very high dynamic range of up to 140dB. There is a wide choice of models covering

analog, USB2, USB3 and CL interfaces, in QVGA and VGA resolutions, some with the cooling option. We also offer a good range of SWIR compatible lenses from a selection of leading manufacturers. “With the higher resolution and larger format sensors there is a need for better optical performance from the optics and many higher resolution lenses are now available in large formats, including the latest 1.1” 12 Megapixel lenses from Computar.” Make sure you say hello to Ian on your walk around MVC in May.

For more details contact: Ian Alderton Technical Sales Director Alrad Instruments Ltd Tel: +441635 30345 sales@alrad.co.uk www.alrad.co.uk

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CONNECTING THE MACHINE VISION WORLD When it comes to connectors and cables, Alysium Tech is at the centre of the action. We asked Thomas Detjen, Head of Sales & Marketing, why Alysium is a key player when it comes to the machine vision market

Thomas Detjen pointed out that Alysium does not just supply leading products, but aims to provide a complete solution for its clients. He said: “So, our goal is always to not only provide just an assembly. We want to provide a solution for our customers, which solves possible troubles before our customers face them.” The company was founded in 2004 by Matthew Simons and is headquartered in Nuremberg, Germany, with production centres in Malaysia and China. Alysium is a market leader in the fields of connectors, cables and cable assemblies. It supplies a wide range of industrial markets, including machine vision and automotive, and focusses on turn-key solutions for industrial OEMs. Detjen explained their approach: “Because we have our own experts and engineers, we are not only just an assembly house. We can design from the raw cable, through to the connectors and everything according to the customer’s demand. “Plus, we have, for example, a mechanical and electrical leading product family for the machine vision world: the A+ Assemblies. Those assemblies are one of the best in regards of possible cable lengths in the applications, for example USB3 up to 8M passive, and are also of a patented design.” Detjen explained further that when it comes to keeping up with the machine vision

sector, the company has three strategies to keep customers happy. Firstly, there’s the stateof-the-art, market leading materials such as A+ and these are available within 36 hours, worldwide, if needed. Secondly, a customer can configure their own assemblies online and they can provide an order starting with just 20 pieces a lot. And thirdly, the solution provider. Detjen: “Here we are the painstopper inside of our customers applications. Developed and produced on customers demand. Here we have expanded our product range over the last few years and can provide now also the receptacle side, for example for TypeC applications. So, one-stop-shop, from the receptacle to assemblies.” The company is in the mid of an innovative product launch. Detjen again: “For the USB3.1 Gen1 Machine Vision market, our A+ Product family is perfect with the release of a brand new “Plug&Play” active optical USB A to MicroB Assembly. “Lengths up to 50m are possible without extra power supply. The assembly can be used in Chain Wire and, or Torsion applications and is tested to withstand even within noisy environments.” A live demonstration will be shown at The Vision Show in Boston and the product will be available by the beginning of July in standard lengths. As for the future, Detjen is very optimistic: “We have been preparing ourselves for some years now for the

new changing requirements from the market side. We are expanding our knowledge into the Active Optical World, which will absolutely be a huge part of the market over the coming years, such as USB3.1 Gen2 and CameraLinkHS. Added to that, we are continuously listening to our customers; we want to understand their pain points and want to support them, to give their application total success.” Detjen finished off with these thoughts: “Of course, fantastic products are not everything. We are working on all fronts on further improvements, it doesn’t matter if it’s the availability of material. Noone wants to wait for an assembly of up to four to five weeks, when a camera is available in five days. “There is still lots to do. The future will be fantastic!”

For more details contact: Thomas Detjen Head of Sales & Marketing Alysium Tel: +49 911 93 78 78 0 t.detjen@alysium.com www.alysium.com

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A+ USB3.1 Gen1 AOC: up to 50m Plug&Play The A+ USB 3.1 active optical Cable is used to transmit 5Gbps over distances up to 50M through a USB3.1 Standard A plug and to the device through a USB3.1 micro-B Plug with locking screws, compatible with the USB3 Vision Standard. The Assembly will power the Device through the cable from the Host and is ready for HighFlex and Torsional applications.

A+ USB 3 Gen1 Discover more: www.alysium.com

Visit us:

16 May 2018

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K AYA B U I L D S S O L I D R E P U TAT I O N W I T H I N MACHINE VISION MARKET Creating unique products is just one way that KAYA Instruments is making its mark on the growing machine vision market KAYA Instruments is proud of its development work, producing high quality products that have won it a solid reputation amongst its growing client base. The company, based in Nesher, Israel, is a leading supplier of CoaXPress frame grabbers, high speed cameras and recorders, range extenders and CoaXPress FPGA IP Core. It was founded in 2008 by Michael Yampolsky (CEO) and Serge Karabchevsky (CTO), industry professionals who were interested in developing and designing new products and solutions for machine vision applications. Michael said: “We are highly engaged in the market and want to enrich the global market with the latest high-end products through the advancing of the industry. The company’s main focus is developing software and hardware for the machine vision market and will remain the main interest in the future. “Our highly skilled engineers design and manufacture products with strive for maximum satisfaction of our customers and their needs. “The technical support team is always dedicated to providing the best and fastest solutions for any technical issues that our customers face, and all that by using the most modern online support desk.” KAYA is determined to stay one step ahead of the market and is very proud of its numerous innovative products in the market, which are suitable for a large variety of machine vision and broadcasting applications.

“Some of our products are unique and exceptional, for example Komodo family that includes one of a kind industry only CoaXPress 8 channel as well 10GiGE, Camera Link HS and fiber frame grabbers.” KAYA’s Jetcam series of highspeed cameras, with up to 40Gbps bandwidth, use a proprietary fiber interface and, said the company, are definitely the most advanced cameras with superior feature set at a relatively low-price tag.

year, by investing in excellent human material KAYA will multiply not just the numbers of its employees but also its turnover. The company’s aim is to invest utmost of its revenue to the R&D activities so that new innovations to be achieved for meeting the versatile demands of machine vision professionals.” One thing is for sure, the machine vision industry is going to be hearing a lot more about KAYA Instruments.

Range extenders over fiber, support all existing machine vision standards that are based on the best practices of communication industry and allow customers great performance for minimal commercial value. Michael again: “Complementary to all our products, KAYA offers FPGA IPs to assist our customers with their own product development. This includes an industry only CoaXPress camera simulator which helps our customers develop their systems. At KAYA we continuously working on new innovative solutions for enriching the industry and our customers. As for the future, Michael is upbeat: “KAYA grows every year and becomes a leading Machine Vision company with large and high-quality variety of products, especially specialize with high speed cameras and recording systems. “KAYA is willing to keep this tendency and even overachieve its targets. The numbers of employees are growing every

For more details contact: Michael Yampolsky Co-Founder KAYA Instruments Tel: +972-544463300 michael@kayainstruments.com www.kayainstruments.com

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STRONG VISION F R O M S V S-V I S T E K Ever since it was formed in 1987 (founded as distributor, but in 2000 started to build cameras), German-based SVSVistek has had a strong vison, to be a value-added camera manufacturer for the middle to high end markets and to focus totally on high-performance digital cameras. CMO Andreas Schaarschmidt takes MVPro Magazine through the major milestones of a sector specialist which believes in staying ahead of the curve The business model of SVS-Vistek is simple, to allow clients to ‘get the perfect picture’ and this is why the company still supplies for the German market all the additional services and products to support that objective, including lenses, lighting, frame grabbers and cables. SVS-Vistek also insist on this approach from their distribution partner, ensuring that there is a very high technical dialogue with customers. Andreas said the company owes its growth and success to their determination to offer the complete package. Andreas, an electrical engineer with a passion for photo and video technology, started his career at STEMMER IMAGING as a salesman and product manager

for Dalsa Line Scan Cameras and JAI Cameras, as well as a number of other brands. His role was to add more value to customers by combining cameras with lenses, illumination, cables and configuration for frame grabbers. Between 2006/2008, he supported the new European approach of STEMMER IMAGING by exporting the business model to Switzerland and became CEO of the Swiss business. Andreas joined SVSVistek in 2009 as a member of management team and became a shareholder a year later. He said: “In 2004 we started as a pioneer to investigate in the upcoming Giagabit Ethernet technology. This leads us in 2005 to the first Camera with a GigEVision interface, the CF – Series.

“By 2005 we had the first very high-resolution camera with 11 Megapixel and full format global shutter based on Kodak´s KAICCD Series. Due to our deep expert knowledge about CCD Sensors, we found a way how to overclock them by almost keeping the quality of the image. This leads to more frames per second which is a big advantage for our customers.” Andreas continued: “It was the beginning of our famous HR Series which is up to today well established in markets such as flat-panel and solar wafer inspection. In 2008 the ECO Series was born. At this time the smallest GigE Vision Camera from 0,3 up to 5 Megapixel based on Sony´s best CDD

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Very adaptive and flexible for different tasks in one machine. customers can control the focus, iris and zoom in a very short time to be ready for the next scene. Sensors with global Shutter. Just to note, it’s been updated up to 12 Megapixel and it’s still successful.” In 2010 the company launched the EVO Series which was a new platform for 4-tap CCD Sensors 1 to 8 Megapixel. The EVO Series offered very high frame rates even for high resolution sensors. At this time the interface Dual-GigE supporting the LAG Standard came on board (240 Mbyte/s). The EVO Series shows up also in Camera Link Medium Standard. Andreas again: “In 2011, based on our ECO and EVO Series, we launched versions with protection class up to IP67. By using the Phoenix M12-12 for the I/O´s and M12/8 for the GigE-Interface, this was born for harsh environments. Real factory floors demand a perfect camera with an industrial approach. “In 2012 it was time to think differently and we had the world’s first industrial camera which supported the MicroFourThird (MFT) bayonet. Fantastic image quality met the flexibility to control the lens via the Ethernet GigE-Vision protocol.

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“In 2013 there was a major step towards very high resolution, witness the 29 Megapixel based on global shutter CCD technology. Due to our unique performance in terms of offering a superior tap balancing and some extra frames per second, our HR Series found the route to demanding markets very fast!” Fast forward to 2014 and the Vision show at Stuttgart and the company showed up with a very ambitious product road map. The statement was therefore for everyone to see, that the company had become the specialist for mid to high resolution cameras based on upcoming new CMOS global shutter sensors from Sony and OnSemi (Kodak/Truesense). Roll on to 2015 and the year sees a heavy workload, but major steps for the company in the direction of becoming a full range supplier for area scan cameras. The EXO Series enters the market step by step. It offers a real multi interface platform supporting all the brand-new Sony IMX Pregius generation sensors. GigE-Vision, USB3Vision and Camera Link in ONE Uniformat housing with enhanced temperature range and built-in four channel flash controllers for LED light sources.

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High Light is the FPD, the ITS, the solar wafer, 3D measurement and an endless number of typical factory floor applications.”

microscopy in combination with telecentric lenses from which, for example, Moritex started. “Right before Christmas and it’s time for “HR120” – 120 Megapixel for even more details. The APS-H format CMOS Sensor with 2,2µm Pixel is a challenge for the lens, but our partners in Asia were ready to supply a suitable solution.”

Together with the sequencer tool, it was seen as a real powerful camera, which brought down the cost of integration. It was also the year that SVS Vistek added to the HR Series the CoaxPress and the CameraLink Full interface and offered a version with OnSemi´s 25 Mega Pixel and 80 fps. Andreas takes up the story again for 2016: “Everybody else moves and prays to CMOS. But we were crazy enough to build the all-new SHR (Super High Resolution) Series relay on the OnSemi CCD with 47 Megapixel and 16 tap’s we had to balance. A new housing concept, which had to deal with head and a controlled thermal flow, were born.”

Andreas can’t resist adding: “By the way – we grew about 40% in one year.” When it comes to the company’s impact in the market, Andreas is very clear: “SVS-Vistek products offer quite a lot unique USPs. With the help of our sales and FAE/Support team and worldwide network of distributors, we can optimize the complexity of the machine and bring the cost down. Total cost of ownership is what we focus on.

As for where the company sees itself, Andreas concluded: “The market is today very much in move. We see some big ‘keywords’ and our community, we all, like to play with them. We have to find a strategy and the answers as to how we can participate from new technology in the SW Development like Deep Learning, or new smaller HW Platforms that are running with outstanding fast CPU/GPU performance. “Vision will happen in lots of new application fields and some of them are really very high volume and nearly consumer style. On the other end we are sure that the individual market niche will also grow and day by day there are new ones coming along.” One thing is for sure, SVSVistek looks likely to maintain the fast pace it has established over the past 30 years.

“We have a wide range of applications fields that our products serve.

The following year, 2017, it was all about marketing the new offer to some very demanding applications. What’s more, said Andreas, it was “… also the story of large format

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I M P E R X C E L E B R AT E S B I R T H D AY W I T H A T I G E R Imperx is getting ready to celebrate being around for 17 years and has just launched a new series of cameras. This is a company that can boast that it has more cameras flying in low earth orbit than all other companies combined. Chief Financial Officer Gregory Pangburn provided an update

In the beginning of 2018, Imperx introduced the new Tiger series of cameras to its line of advanced digital CCD cameras, with resolutions up to 47MP, which raises the image quality bar by leveraging advanced thermal design with optional forced air cooling for supreme sensitivity and dynamic range in industrial, medical, and inspection applications. Like the Bobcat series, Tiger cameras offer a variety of models, high quality digital images, flexibility and dependability. The series has several improvements and new capabilities such as a new imaging platform with the latest sensor design and component technology, resolutions up to 47MP, improved NIR sensitivity sensors, lower power requirements, reduced noise, support for active/ passive Canon EOS lens and simplified feature sets for easier use. Gregory said: “The remarkable Tiger cameras use larger, faster sensors (4/3” to 57mm optical formats) and advanced processing technology to meet ever more demanding applications. Camera resolutions include 47, 29, 16, 8.6, 8, and 4 megapixels and offer a broad range of frame rates. Ruggedized and Industrial versions assure performance and value. Ruggedized versions are made for tougher environments and applications, wider temperatures (-40C to +85C), and greater shock and vibration. Industrial versions are made to be durable in a wide range of applications, are ideal for commercial temperatures (-10C to +60C) and are very flexible in terms of their programming.” As for the company’s impact in the market, Gregory added: “There are two predominant business models in the industrial camera

world, low cost/high volume and high value/low volume. Imperx by design lives in the latter category. Where the high-volume players produce 50,000-250,000 cameras per year, Imperx produces 3,000 to 4,000 cameras per year. In terms of revenue and camera volume we are quite low on the list. Where we are ranked number one is in the demanding fields of space based imaging, PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry), flat panel inspection and other very demanding applications. In short, our cameras are designed to the highest level of image quality and data, and to operate in extreme environments. For instance, we have more cameras flying in LEO (low earth orbit) than all other companies combined.” When it comes to engagement in the market, Gregory added: “All Atlas V and Delta IV rockets use Imperx cameras exclusively. Our Bobcat series of cameras have a >660,000 hour MTBF (mean time between failure) design. This is the highest in the camera industry. “The Navy and NASA have tested several of our camera models at temperatures from -50C to +105C. They work. We also have DO-160G compliance reports for two of our camera models. DO-160G is required for commercial aircraft. We’re the only industrial camera maker that has cameras certified by an independent lab to DO-160G.”

marketing, product design and US manufacturing, with 33 members of staff. Mechanicals are manufactured at the company’s Bulgaria facility which employs nine. There is also an office in Bulgaria, which employs seven, where they test subassemblies and make cameras for Europe and Asia. There are also nine software and firmware engineers at the company’s Korolev, Russian office. So where does the future lie for Imperx. Gregory explained: “Imperx cameras are HIGHLY reliable for two reasons. We use only Industrial grade components and we design for ruggedization and long life. Those design and production criteria cost more but because of them, we’ve been able to carve out a nice niche in the camera market and have been profitable since 2005. Imperx plans to continue with our commitment to the highest quality products at prices that are right for any budget. Stay tuned to find out what’s next for Imperx in 2018 and onward. “

For more details contact: Gregory Pangburn

Imperx was founded in Boca Raton, Florida on July 20, 2001. The company has grown rapidly and now has an annual turnover of $1520m, with 58 full-time employees.

Chief Financial Officer

The Boca Raton HQ handles administration, sales and

www.imperx.com

Imperx Tel: +1-561-989-0006 greg@imperx.com

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& EXHIBITION 16 May 2018 Arena MK, Milton Keynes, UK

60 technical seminars for newcomers to vision to expert vision users and engineers

• 3D VISION • CAMERA TECHNOLOGY • OPTICS & ILLUMINATION • SYSTEMS & APPLICATIONS • DEEP LEARNING & EMBEDDED VISION • UNDERSTANDING VISION TECHNOLOGY • VISION INNOVATION

An exhibition of the latest vision technology and services from the leading companies in the world of industrial vision and imaging Oﬃcial event publication

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Enquiries Chris Valdes (chris.valdes@ppma.co.uk) Tel: +44 (0) 20 8773 5517

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