Spring is here and that means lots of camera news

FRAMOS

Industrial Cameras – Trends and the Market

We kick off our feature with a study from FRAMOS entitled Industrial Cameras – Trends and the Market. It’s the 11th such study and answers come from 61 camera manufacturers and vision users from 22 countries, and provides insights into the vision camera market.

Claudia Unterhuber, Head of Marketing at FRAMOS told us: “With greater competition from Asia and the trend toward embedded vision; some manufacturers see the risk that traditional camera solutions will become obsolete. A few also look skeptical at machines and devices that see in almost all industrial sectors and the consumer market, may resulting in a market fragmentation.”

The report said: “Traditional machine vision and modular embedded vision will support the vision industry’s further grow. Users and manufacturers of industrial cameras rely on outstanding sensor performance; simple connectivity and integration; and, mass-market-ready technologies like 3D, polarization, and artificial intelligence. Where possible, this technology can be mounted on sensor board modules to allow smart devices, machines in industry and the consumer market to be visual. Automation can allow for 100% control, while embedded imaging technology in everyday devices can improve the quality of life.

“In contrast, most manufacturers see embedded vision as one of the greatest opportunities to integrate image processing in all areas of life and work. 3D imaging and vision devices with artificial intelligence are factors boosting the industry.

“Manufactures and users still predict falling camera prices. The significant shift from high to lower priced cameras can likely be explained with the increased competition, the

technical development that allows greater performance for lower cost, and modularization through embedded vision. Consequently, the strongest growth is predicted for OEM camera modules and 3D cameras. This growth will continue to drive embedded vision and ensure greater accuracy of predictions based on 3D data. Autonomous devices like robots in industry; logistics and smart homes; along with drones, AR/VR/MR, autonomous cars; and, other intelligent machines in all areas of life will benefit.

“For the image sensor as heart of every vision camera, there is a clear difference between traditional machine vision and advanced embedded vision in the industrial and consumer sectors. Embedded applications require mostly high resolution, sensitivity and analysis quality, to achieve the greatest possible level of reliability and accuracy. This level of reliability and accuracy is ideally true in 3D, for precise processing and control in real time. In contrast, measurement and testing tasks can be performed at lower resolutions and speeds.”

Sensor Modules are the New Embedded Vision Cameras

“Embedded vision requires high-performance sensor modules. NVIDIA Tegra, Intel’s Movidius and Qualcomm Snapdragon are the platforms of choice. Manufacturers value the uniqueness and differentiation of their own developed solutions, while users prefer off-the-shelf solutions to concentrate on their core activities.

“The results of this year’s FRAMOS Market Study mirror the industry’s change towards embedded vision cameras. As vision technology enters the industrial and consumer mass-markets, camera systems which can be easily developed are needed - preferably on a modular approach, both powerful and highly standardized for scalability. Technological progress and miniaturization have given a decisive boost to the progressive modularization of embedded vision cameras and its growth.”

PRODUCT NEWS

FRAMOS is also making available the Intel RealSense T265 Tracking Camera, with Fusing Vision and IMU Data.

The Intel Corporation recently launched its Intel® RealSense T265 Tracking Camera, introducing a new class of stand-alone simultaneous localization and mapping device. The compact camera’s tracking is based on visual and inertial sensor fusion and brings SLAM visual mapping to autonomous devices. The T265 plug-and-play device outputs 6 DoF data for precise mapping for the exact orientation and navigation of robots, drones and an immersive experience in Augmented and Virtual Reality.

The Intel RealSense T265 Tracking Camera uses inputs from dual fisheye cameras and a Bosch IMU along with its own processor on board. The Movidius MA215x ASIC provides edge processing capabilities to provide the host system with 6 DoF poses. These real-time six degrees of freedom measurements enhance translation and rotation data which is crucial for pose estimation for autonomous devices, and for detecting the environment

to move without collisions or other errors. The camera’s SLAM system helps machines and devices to navigate in warehouses, at logistic centers and other places without GPS.

Darren Bessette, Category Manager Devices at FRAMOS, said: “Until now, developers were heavily challenged to use a single IMU or vision sensor to measure both orientation and translation in space. Intel’s T265 hybrid approach improves the precision of pose estimation for drones, robots and the immersive experience in AR/VR applications based on the paired strengths of both measuring methods. Saving development time and resources, this precise 6 DoF poses output is a huge improvement in a ready-to-embed camera device having such a small form factor. Intel’s T265 tracking camera makes precise 3D pose estimation available off-the-shelf for building autonomous devices on the edge.”

The Intel® RealSense T265 Tracking Camera has one main board which includes all components on a single board. Middleware processing is provided directly on the Movidius Myriad 2MA215x ASIC chip, which enables a higher CPU performance in order to provide the host system with 6 DoF poses with low latency. The Bosch BMI055 IMU provides an accelerometer and gyroscope with high sample rates in a single package while the OV9282 fisheye camera contains a monochrome Global Shutter image sensor with more than 160-degree view, complemented by an IR cut filter. The T265 camera comes with USB 3.0 support, though USB 2.0 video streaming is sufficient for running the system.

NERIAN

Karmin2 color

For a long time, Nerian has been providing fast stereo camera systems that are based on monochrome image sensors. Monochrome sensors work well for stereo vision due to their high light sensitivity and low noise. These characteristics are particularly important for high speed applications, such as the 100 fps depth imaging that can be done with Nerian’s SceneScan Pro.

While color information is of limited benefit for depth perception, it might be very relevant for onward-processing of the obtained depth maps or 3D point clouds. One example application is the detection of fruits for picking automation. Segmenting a fruit from the surrounding vegetation can be easily done using a color 2D image. For actual picking, however, the fruit’s 3D location and size is needed, which can be obtained from the 3D data.

Up until now, customers who wanted to realize one such application required two cameras: one monochrome

stereo camera for depth perception and one color camera for fruit detection. Both cameras would have to be precisely calibrated in order to allow a correlation of the color and depth data.

With the release of Nerian’s new color stereo camera model – Karmin2 color – realizing such applications has become much simpler. The camera acquires a full color stereo frame, which can now be processed with the new firmware released for SceneScan Pro. The user receives a 3D point cloud, with color information available for every single 3D point, or a color image that exactly matches with the computed depth map.

Using a color stereo camera rather than a combination of monochrome and color cameras reduces system complexity and costs. The substantially larger size of color images means that a color stereo system does not quite provide the same performance as a monochrome system. But with up to 50 fps and image resolutions up to 0.75 megapixels, the performance is still more than sufficient for most applications.

SONY

Sony XCG-CP510 polarised machine vision camera now available in mass-production quantities

The Sony XCG-CP510 polarised machine vision camera and SDK are now available in mass-production quantities

The SDK simplifies application development and speeds time to market for developers when using 5.1 MP, 4-way polarised light module. It also simplifies stress inspection, contrast improvement, glare removal, scratch detection, object detection/ removal/ enhancement

Sony Europe’s Image Sensing Solutions’ XCG-CP510, the first in a new category of polarised machine vision cameras, is now available in mass-production quantities.

The module is the industry’s first polarised camera to feature an SDK, which includes a range of reference applications. This will significantly cut development time and cost for system integrators creating applications using polarised modules.

The XCG-CP510, and the new category, is based on Sony’s newly developed IMX250MZR global shutter CMOS sensor, which uses monochrome quad polarised filters to capture polarised light in four planes.

To extract the best-possible image from the Sony sensor, the design of the XCG-CP510 module has been optimised

by Sony’s industrial camera engineers and outputs 5.1 MP polarised B/W images at 23 fps, transmitted over a GigE interface.

Allied Vision has extended the feature set of the Mako G cameras equipped with the Sony Pregius CMOS sensor following a firmware update.

Usage scenarios that would benefit the new camera category include stress inspection, contrast improvement, scratch detection and object detection /removal / enhancement from a single image capture. Sony is targeting a wide range of manufacturing applications - from glass inspection to electronics - as well as the ITS and security sectors.

Arnaud Destruels, Marketing Manager, Sony ISS said: “This continues Sony’s history of innovation and precision, with the sensor and camera engineers working closely to enable the best possible image to be created, while building in several beneficial features within a small footprint.”

The small footprint of this cubic camera also includes multiple trigger modes: edge detection, pulse width detection, bulk trigger, sequential trigger, free set sequence and a burst-trigger function. Additionally, the module can be fired via hardware or software triggers or via the IEEE1588 precision timing protocol, with the unit capable of acting as either a slave or dynamically assigned master device.

The IMX250MZR, Sony’s newest image sensor, is a 2/3- type PregiusR GS CMOS sensor and uses four different angled polarisers, with each pixel polarised for either 90o, 45o, 135o or 0o. A four-pixel (2 x 2) calculation unit is then created to capture light in four planes.

The camera also achieves a greater sensitivity with improved extinction ratio through Sony’s Wire Grid Polariser technology, which places the on-chip polariser beneath an on-chip lens.

BAUMER

Baumer CX.I cameras can now be used to cover applications in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries

With the specially developed IP 65, IP 67 and IP 69K housing accessories, Baumer CX.I cameras can now be used to cover applications in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries, which set high standards regarding cleaning media or surface roughness in the splash or product contact zone.

In thermal terms, the accessories are ideal matches for the cameras and turn them into IP 65, IP 67 or IP 69K cameras in no time at all. This flexibility means that the right version is available for every field of application, with an optimum price-performance ratio.

The IP 65/67 housing was developed in accordance with EHEDG guidelines. Thanks to its round shape, liquids flow

off quickly without forming dirt pockets. The hard anodized surface also resists intensive cleaning processes.

The washdown design of the EHEDG-compliant, IP 69K, stainless steel housing, eliminates the possibility of product residue adhesion, facilitates residue-free cleaning and prevents the formation of bacteria. With a surface roughness of less than 0.8 µm and food-grade, hardwearing seals, it is also suitable for splash and food zones in which oils and greases or chemically aggressive cleaning media are used.

The housing kits are supplemented by an extensive range of tubes to meet the various application requirements. Tubes are available with different cover glass materials such as acrylic glass or chemically strengthened alumino-silicate glass with high scratch, impact and fracture resistance as laminated safety glass for a long service life.

The CX.I cameras with resolutions of up to 12 megapixels and up to 148 fps can withstand shocks of up to 100 g, vibrations of up to 10g, and have 4 power outputs with pulse width modulation and a power output of up to 120 W (max. 48 V / 2.5 A) to control lighting directly without an external controller. Models with an extended operating temperature range from -40 °C to 70 °C also allow for use in extremely demanding ambient conditions.

ALLIED VISION

Extends range feature set of Mako G cameras equipped with Sony Pregius CMOS

The Mako G-040, Mako G-158, Mako G-234, Mako G-319 as well as Mako G-507 now support IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) support and action commands for triggering the camera via the Ethernet connection (ToE).

These cameras, said Allied Vision, now offers a more comprehensive feature set, the latest Sony CMOS sensors, and support for popular C- and CS-Mount lenses in an ultra-compact housing (29 mm × 29mm). With the new features, the Mako G cameras are particularly suitable for use in multi-camera applications.

Also out is Allied Vision’s Mako camera with Polarization Sensor Technology. The company has released new Mako GigE Vision CMOS camera model equipped with polarization filter technology from Sony.

The new Mako G-508B POL camera is equipped with a PolarsensTM 5.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor from Sony (IMX250MZR). With the new polarizer camera Allied Vision offers a cost-effective tool to unveil features not visible with conventional imaging solutions.

Improving visibility with polarization image data.

The IMX250MZR CMOS sensor incorporates the latest four-directional polarization filter technology from Sony. The on-chip nanowire polarizing layer supports four orientations (0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°) so that each pixel of the sensor captures polarized light in relation to its specific wire-grid axis. Four pixels together build a calculation unit to determine for each pixel the intensity and angle of polarization.

By using polarized image data, reflections that make the inspection of surfaces difficult can be reduced, contrast can be enhanced in low-light conditions to detect shapes, and various material properties can be detected, like stress, composition, or surface structure. The Mako G-508B POL enables an eased usability to gather polarization imaging data, as replacement or manual rotation of polarization filters is not necessary anymore. It also reduces costs due to a minimized system setup, compared to traditional polarization imaging methods.

EMERGENT

Adds four camera models with polarization image sensors

Emergent Vision Technologies has added four camera models with polarization image sensors featuring Sony’s Polarsens technology to its HR and HT series of cameras with a 10 GigE interface: The 5 Megapixel HR-5000-Sand HT-5000-S series (Sony IMX250MYR / MZR), and the 12 Megapixel HR-12000-S and HT-12000-S series (Sony IMX253MYR / MZR).

Sony’s Polarsens technology is based on polarization image sensors with four-directional on-chip polarizer and is aimed at the industrial market. The polarizer is formed on chip under the on-chip lens layer and is covered with an anti-reflection layer to avoid poor flare and ghost characteristics. Polarized image sensors offer improved brightness and color, and can also capture details, which

cannot be detected by normal image sensor in applications such as glass inspection, tablet filling inspection, distortion inspection, and reflection removal.

The IMX250MZR/MYR and IMX253MYR/MZR feature an analog memory inside each pixel. This enables high frame rate, excellent picture quality imaging, and helps prevent focal plane distortion for fast moving objects.

Emergent Vision Technologies’ HR and HT Series were the very first 10 GigE cameras to be introduced on to the market. Both series offer camera models between 2 and 50 megapixels. HR Series models are equipped with a high-speed 10 GigE SFP+ interface. SFP+ offers users with several options to cover cable length requirements for all applications at competitive prices. HT Series cameras feature a high-speed 10GBaseT RJ45 Interface, which offers 10x the speed of GigE and cable lengths up to 100 meters. Both HR and HT series are GigE Vision and Gen<i>cam compliant.

Emergent Vision Technologies leverages technologies such as Mellanox’s VMA, Rivermax, and Cspi’s MVA to offload all packet processing to the Network Interface Controllers (NICs). This results in less than 1% CPU utilization and approximately only 100us added latency.

These cameras are ideal for a wide-range of applications including solar and display panel inspection, electronic assemblies, large aerial surveillance of sport stadiums, production lines and robotics.

They will be available Q2-2019.

XENICS

Manx series

The company’s brand-new Manx series, is a family of high performance linear InGaAs cameras.

This short-wave infrared (SWIR) camera provides high quality line-scan imaging at unprecedented speeds of up to 390 kHz line rate. These speeds are currently the highest out of all commercially available SWIR linear cameras.

Achieving new grounds in SWIR imaging speeds enhances inspection processes, increasing daily production capabilities for such applications. Silicon wafer inspections, TFT screen inspections, food and agricultural produce sorting are some industrial applications that would benefit from this new line of ultra-fast linear InGaAs cameras.

The Manx is offered in three different resolutions of 512, 1024 or 2048 pixels. A 2048-pixel resolution Manx camera will be demonstrated on the booth for the event. Gobi+ series – high performance thermal imaging Xenics introduces an addition to the Gobi longwave infrared (LWIR) series: the Gobi+ (plus) series.

This new series of Gobi cameras provide high resolution imaging at full 640 x 480 pixels. In order to fulfill ever higher requirements of demanding applications, the Gobi+ camera series comes with increased performance capabilities. The Gobi+ brings enhanced image quality thanks to improved pixel operability as well as low detector noise of less than 50 mK NETD. High speed imaging is also provided with frame rates up to 60 Hz that can be further increased in windowing mode.

MERKUR LINE SCAN CAMERA FROM EVT

EVT told us that the Merkur series is a smart line scan camera from AIC. The smart camera has a FPGA and IP Core for the programming of the FPGA.

The Merkur line scan camera is an efficient solution for the inspection of endless materials such as steel bands, paper webs and glass sheets, etc.

Therefore Merkur can be used for applications and industries such as:

• The printing industry

• For the production of paper,

• When producing steel sheets, as well as

• In textile production, to detect and classify flaws in the material.

For example steel sheets are used differently according to their quality. The image processing makes it possible that the flawless parts of steel sheet is used for the bonnet and the doors and the sheet with small flaws is used for the underbody.

BASLER

First models of MED ace camera series

The first models of the Basler MED ace camera series, produced in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13485:2016, have now entered series production (2 MP and 5 MP resolution).

The camera series includes Basler’s first cameras specifically designed for Medical & Life Sciences. They are also the perfect answer to Sony’s discontinuation of CCD sensors. All models are equipped with the best CMOS sensor technology, which scores in terms of image quality and lower costs compared to classic CCD cameras. Featuring

Sony’s Pregius sensors or the PYTHON sensors from ON Semiconductor, the Basler MED ace achieves up to 164 frames per second and a resolution of up to 20 MP.

The excellent performance is underscored by pixel sizes up to 5.86 µm, a low temporary dark noise of a minimum of 2e- and sensor sizes up to 1.1 inches.

With certification in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13485:2016, Basler now provides additional quality standards for the 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 and monitored production, traceability and comprehensive change management reduces effort required for audits, product documentation and support in complying with European standards.

The Basler MED ace cameras also have unique Basler MED Feature Sets: Easy Compliance, Brilliant Image, Perfect Color, Low Light Imaging, High Speed and Industrial Excellence. The Feature Sets combine market-leading hardware, firmware and software features. Basler developed them addressing the high imaging demands in Medical &

Life Sciences to reduce customers’ development efforts. Basler’s 6 Axis Operator and the Color Calibrator provide full control of the image’s color appearance, which is highly relevant for applications in ophthalmology or microscopy. Basler’s PGI and the other new, automatic image functions deliver supreme image quality in minimal time on color and monochrome cameras.

Vignetting Correction

Basler has introduced the feature of “Vignetting Correction” into selected of its ace U and ace L camera models.

“Vignetting Correction” allows the correction of edge shadowing in the case of an image circle that is too small in relation to the sensor size. It allows users to take advantage of smaller, less expensive lenses without sacrificing image quality.

Vignetting is a well-known phenomenon in image processing and describes the decrease in image brightness towards the edge. If the image circle of the lens used is too small in relation to the camera sensor, this effect can manifest strongly and affect the image quality.

Details at the edge of the sensor can then only be inspected poorly, or not at all.

Vignetting Correction is a patent-pending feature from Basler that, it said, corrects the described unwanted effect in a unique way, thereby enabling cost savings when combining cameras and lenses. After a one-time calibration of the camera, there are no negative effects on frame rate or image quality as the correction values are stored in the camera and automatically taken into account in the image output.

New ace U models

Four new, high-resolution Basler ace U models have now entered series production.

The new cameras are equipped with the IMX183 Sony sensor and feature a 20 MP resolution with frame rates of up to 17 frames per second. Basler told MVPro Magazine that they are particularly suitable for applications that require a highly detailed inspection of the finest structures.

The four new high-resolution ace U models have Basler’s PGI feature set for colour and monochrome cameras, which corrects unwanted artefacts. This, said Basler, provides users with a particularly good evaluation on a pixel level. As a result, Basler said, it enables a detailed inspection of high-resolution displays with excellent image quality at a very attractive price.

The back-illuminated sensor technology of the Sony IMX183 provides outstanding sensitivity and low noise at a small pixel size of 2.4 µm. With this particularly light-sensitive sensors, the four new ace cameras offer excellent image quality even in low light conditions.

All four new ace U models are available with a GigE and USB 3.0 interface and include the PGI feature set, the unique combination of 5×5 Debayering, Color-Anti-Aliasing, Denoising and Improved Sharpness. The GigE models also excel with high-performance GigE Vision 2.0 features such as PTP.

ADIMEC

Adimec launched the 65 megapixel Sapphire S-65A35 as well the DIAMOND D-12A09 at the recent Vision China, part of Laser World of Photonics China Shanghai 2019.

The SAPPHIRE S-65A35 renders phenomenal performance in a rectangular 9344×7000-pixel resolution running over 35 fps. The camera has a low read noise, with a good thermal design for passive cooling, and high dynamic range of 66dB, using Gpixel GMAX3265 global shutter sensor technology with a pixel size of 3.2 microns. These resolution and performance parameters make this camera an exceptional next step in tools used in, for example semiconductors and display inspection and metrology.

The DIAMOND D-12A09 GigE Vision camera delivers 4096x3008-pixel resolution at 9 fps with 3.45-micron square pixels. Adimec’s DIAMOND 12-megapixel camera features optimized solution for applications like display or wafer inspection, requiring a high dynamic range and an excellent performance in measurements in dark. Special features in the camera enable Mura dark and Mura bright inspection without mechanical adaptation.

JAI

New 3-CMOS prism based color line scan camera with 10 GigE interface

JAI has introduced a new industrial colour line scan camera in the Sweep+ Series. The Sweep+ SW-4000T-10GE is a prism-based colour line scan camera equipped with three CMOS sensors and a 10 GigE interface including backwards compatibility to 5, 2.5 and 1 Gbps Ethernet standards. The 3-CMOS prism design features three separate imagers that simultaneously capture red, green, and blue spectral wavebands for very high color imaging accuracy.

The SW-4000T-10GE camera offers a maximum resolution of 4096 pixels (4k) per channel/line, and in combination with the 10GBASE-T interface, the camera provides RGB output at a maximum line rate as high as 97 kHz (97,000 scan lines/second). YUV color data can be output at up to 145 kHz. Using sensor region-of-interest (ROI) the camera can output data at even faster line rates. For example, by setting the ROI at 2112 pixels, the scan rate can be increased to as much as 183,400 lines/s.

Via integrated auto-negotiation technology the camera offers automatic backwards compatibility to NBASE-T (5 Gbps and 2.5 Gbps) and the traditional 1000BASE-T (1 Gbps output) for customers running vision applications on these lower-speed Ethernet standards. Therefore, the new SW-4000T-10GE color line scan camera covers multiple Ethernet configurations making it suitable for the slowest to the fastest running colour line scan set-ups including applications in food sorting, plastic sorting, bottle/bottle cap inspection and high speed colour print/label inspection.

The SW-4000T-10GE camera offers two user-selectable pixel sizes – a 7.5 x 7.5 µm mode (Mode A) with fast responsivity for applications that need it, and a 7.5 x 10.5 µm mode (Mode B) to provide a deeper well with better dynamic range and SNR characteristics when more light is available or when running at lower speeds. In addition, each of the three CMOS sensors has two adjacent lines. This arrangement makes it possible for the SW-4000T-10GE to provide not only horizontal pixel binning but also vertical pixel binning, or both.

Also included is the built-in colour conversion capability that allows the SW-4000T-10GE to provide native HSI or CIEXYZ colour output, in addition to offering conversions from standard RGB to the sRGB or Adobe RGB colour spaces, or even to a user-defined custom RGB conversion matrix.

The camera also supports the precision time protocol and direct connection to encoders.

Additional standard features include gain and black level adjustment, manual or automatic white balancing, shading correction, PRNU and DSNU correction, region-of-interest settings, and chromatic aberration compensation.

The camera can be ordered with two different lens mount options – a Nikon F-mount or an M52 mount.

New series of camera models and software integrations

JAI has also launched a series of new camera models and software integrations which provide advanced colour

imaging capabilities to builders and users of microscopybased imaging systems.

The series include six new models in JAI’s Apex Series of high performance 3-CMOS prism colour cameras, as well as full integration with two of the most popular microscopy software solutions – Image-Pro from Media Cybernetics and the µManager open source software package.

Three of the new JAI camera models are variations of the AP-3200T-USB, a 3.2-megapixel, 38.3 fps 3-CMOS prism colour camera. The other three models are variations on the AP-1600T-USB, a 1.6-megapixel 3-CMOS camera offering higher frame rates at lower resolution.

All models have USB3 Vision interfaces, whose combination of bandwidth and easy plug-and-play compatibility have made it a widely-used choice for microscopy systems.

The new camera variations include both standard JAI green housings, as well as special white housings for systems intended for hospitals, or clinical/laboratory environments where white housings are often preferred.

SICK

Pocket-sized camera

SICK has launched the Ranger3 camera, a high-definition streaming camera. It will, said the company, push forward the boundaries of 3D vision inspection in a wide range of industrial applications thanks to a breakthrough CMOS sensor that powers unprecedented high-speed image processing in a compact device.

The Ranger3 is the first to be powered by SICK’s innovative Imager with ROCC (Rapid On-Chip Calculation technology). Faster than any comparable device on the market said SICK, its next-generation technology is capable of capturing 7000 profiles per second at full sensor acquisition.

The Ranger3 extracts the true 3D shape of an object, regardless of its contrast, or colour, and as a result achieves 3D measurement with unprecedented accuracy, enabling operators to achieve reliable quality inspection at more rapid throughputs.

“The SICK Ranger3 is built around our new M30 CMOS sensor, which is seven times as sensitive as anything SICK has used before in its vision cameras,” says Neil Sandhu SICK (UK) vision specialist. “This means that lighting is never going to be an issue, even with low contrast dark objects at high speeds.

“The SICK Ranger3’s sensor acquires 3D profiles over 2560 coordinates at 1/16 subpixel resolution, for very high definition, even on very dark or reflective surfaces, for an outstanding imaging dynamic range.”

STEMMER IMAGING

Smart IR thermal imaging cameras ready for Industry 4.0

The new range of IRSX industrial IR cameras from Automation Technology is designed to facilitate the use of thermal imaging in Industry 4.0 applications. Completely self-contained with embedded data processing, these compact, rugged cameras feature a multitude of interface protocols for direct communication with automation and control equipment. These include OPC-UA, a platform-independent, open standard for machine-to-machine communication which is ideally suited for Industry 4.0.

With a choice of sensors (336 x 256 or 640 x 512 pixels), fields of view, frame rates and physical configurations, these new cameras can be used for autonomous thermal monitoring wherever temperature is a critical factor in the manufacture and processing of industrial products. Other applications include preventive early fire detection and plant condition monitoring.

A powerful, user-friendly web interface provides access to a comprehensive range of software tools on the versatile

embedded AT Vision World platform. These support the integration and use of the cameras and include sensor communication libraries and standard APIs such as REST, GigE Vision, MQTT and OPC-UA as well as a constantly growing number of application-specific apps. Solutions for thermal imaging applications can therefore be created easily and efficiently without the need for a PC or additional specialized thermal imaging software. This reduces system complexity, installation time and cost.

The IRSX series offers versatile integration and control capabilities. The cameras can be easily integrated into software projects using cxCamSDK. This provides a C-based API and language wrappers for C++, Python, MATLAB and Octave as well as a generic interface based on the GEV/GenICam transport layer standard. The cxRestAPI defines an architecture approach based on WWW standards for communication between different systems in networks. This facilitates integration based on standardized methods such as HTTP/-S, JSON or XML.

The cameras feature a number of communication protocols for interfacing to external automation and control equipment, from the well-established Profinet or Modbus TCP to the newer OPC-UA and MQTT. They also have digital I/Os for control and alarming as well as an encoder interface, e.g. for part tracking on variable speed lines. The OPC-UA and MQTT protocols will play an important role in the Internet of Things and machine-to-machine communication for Industry 4.0. Using OPC-UA, the sender and receiver communicate directly, however MQTT uses an intermediary known as an MQTT broker. Both protocols provide standardization and high scalability.

The cameras are available in three model types to meet a wide variety of applications and installations. The ‘compact’

and ‘universal’ versions are supplied in rugged IP67 full-metal housings and can be installed on the factory floor even in very small spaces without any need for an additional protective enclosure. The compact version is designed for use with wide field of view lenses, while the universal version is compatible with most lenses. An ‘open’ version without housing is also available. This can be fitted with a housing for a specific application by the customer. A housing integration kit can also be supplied.

A wide range of lenses is available for a host of thermographic applications. All lenses feature a large aperture for high radiation throughput and maximum utilization of sensor sensitivity for high- quality thermal images. Customer-specific focal lengths, e.g. large ones for monitoring distant objects, are available on request.

Human assistance camera

STEMMER IMAGING also told us that it was making available a human assistance camera in Europe.

The Ricoh SC-10 camera inspection system, is designed to both provide assembly instructions to operators and verify each step has been completed correctly. It is promoted as a simple, self-contained camera system and one which is having a major impact in many different manufacturing environments in Japan.

It works by loading a set of work instructions into the camera and displaying on a monitor while the camera scans the work-piece. The human operator follows the on-screen assembly instructions and after every action, the system compares the result to the correct stored image before the next step can be taken. This reduces errors, helps operators learn new tasks and provides a digital audit trail of all operations.

The RICOH SC – 10 series automatically checks the assembly status and identifies incorrect, or missing items by using either pattern matching, colour verification, or identifying the presence of textures. In addition, when used in conjunction with a Barcode scanner, it can record the part number and select the job instruction set, record the serial number and user ID. Each step completed is recorded in a CSV file including the time spent and an optional image of the inspection can be saved. This means that it can be used for assembly work analysis and traceability.

The camera features in-built software, which can be set up with a directly attached mouse and keyboard via USB. An HDMI monitor can be connected to display the assembly instructions and inspection state. No PC is required. Job configuration and instruction along with the inspection audit report can be stored either on the inbuilt SD card, or on a network storage location via the inbuilt Ethernet port.

IDS

New industrial cameras from IDS: IMX226 sensor offers excellent image quality

IDS has integrated the high-resolution 12 MP IMX226 rolling shutter sensor into the uEye CP camera family, giving increased resolution, speed and sensitivity. The new models are available with the established GigE or USB3 interfaces and will be available from May 2019.

Thanks to the BSI (“back-sideillumination”) technology of the SONY STARVIS series of sensors, the IMX226 is perfect for tasks that require optimal results even in low light conditions. It delivers extremely low-noise images and is therefore ideally suited for applications in areas such as microscopy, medicine, logistics and traffic monitoring.

With a sensor size of 1/1.7”, the uEye CP cameras, which are only 29 x 29 x 29 mm in size, also allow for a very large selection of cost-effective lenses. The sensor will be available in either colour or monochrome. Thanks to the unique IDS software suite, users can also experience practical “plug & play” with these cameras: the models are automatically recognised in the system and are immediately ready for use.

Ensenso XR camera creates 3D data twice as fast thanks to on-board processing

IDS said that its Ensenso XR stereo camera can calculate 3D point clouds itself.

It then transmits the data via Gigabit Ethernet, or WiFi to a host PC for further analysis.

The advantages of the new camera series include, for example, significantly faster 3D data generation and reduced load on bandwidth and connected PCs. Models of the Ensenso N and X series make use of an industrial computer to calculate 3D point clouds. As the cameras can handle the calculations themselves and transmit only the results, 3D data can be generated twice as fast, depending on the parameterization. What’s more, if data is transmitted via WiFi, only one cable (for power supply) needs to be connected to the camera. This is important, for example, if the camera is installed on a robot arm.

“Ensenso XR inherits the modular concept and precise detail capture of the X series and provides new scope through the fast capture of 3D point clouds, from which many applications will benefit,” explains Dr. Martin Hennemann, Product Manager Ensenso at IDS. The camera series was officially presented for the first time at VISION 2018 based on a prototype.

PHASE ONE

Introduces high resolution medium format cameras for machine vision

Phase One Industrial has launched their first machine vision medium format camera systems. The new Phase One Industrial iXM-MV cameras, available in resolutions of 150- and 100-megapixels, in both RGB and Achromatic models, are suited to a range of machine vision applications -- from industrial inspection and process control to motion film digitization, medical imaging, science and research. Leveraging technology innovations such as back-side illuminated large-area sensor, incredibly high dynamic range, state-of-the-art image processing software and

high-quality lenses, Phase One Industrial is introducing ground-breaking imaging technology for the most demanding Machine Vision and Industrial Inspection applications. The Phase One Industrial iXM-MV150F camera system delivers a pixel matrix of 14204x 10652 (pixel size of 3.76 micrometers).

An M72mm standard lens mount is included for wide format lenses. All iXM-MV cameras are optionally supplied with wide format Linos Inspec.x lenses, known for their high quality at large magnifications. In-camera image

corrections and lossless compression are enabled for high-speed transfer via SuperSpeed USB 3 & 10G Ethernet. Phase One’s renowned image processing engine (featuring sophisticated noise reduction and image sharpening) is optimized for iXM-MV cameras, enabling optimum detail, sharpness and color management.

“We are launching premium imaging products that will satisfy new opportunities in flat panel display production lines, motion film digitization machines, infrastructure inspection and medical imaging markets,” said Dov Kalinski, General Manager, Phase One Industrial. “The cameras’ combination of high resolution and high dynamic range (83 dB) at pixel depths of 12, 14 or 16 bits brings an unprecedented degree of sharpness and detail across the entire image area. They demonstrate our commitment to delivering unmatched performance for the most demanding machine vision industry requirements.”

LUCID

Adds Four New Models to its Triton Industrial Camera Series

LUCID has added four new Triton GigE Vision camera models featuring Sony Pregius global shutter CMOS image sensors.

The new Triton cameras, recently moved into series production, range from 0.4 to 12.3 Megapixel resolution. The lower resolution Triton models include the monochrome and color versions of the 0.4 MP Sony Pregius IMX287 CMOS sensor running at 291 fps and the 1.6 MP Sony IMX273 running at 77 fps. The higher resolution models feature the monochrome and color versions of the 8.9 MP

Sony Pregius IMX267 running at 13.7 fps and the 12.3 MP Sony IMX304 CMOS sensors running at 10 fps.

The Triton camera sets a new price performance standard in the industrial camera market. Active Sensor Alignment for superior optical performance, a lightweight, compact 29 x 29 mm size, and IP67 protection make the Triton camera suitable for any industrial environment. The M12 Ethernet and M8 I/O connectors provide a robust connection resistant to shock and vibration and are protected from dirt, dust, and water. The Triton camera has a wide operating temperature ranging from -20°C to 55°C ambient, ensuring a reliable operation in challenging conditions.

“We’re pleased to further expand our Triton camera series and offer a broad selection of image sensors, resolutions and frame rates,” says Rod Barman, Founder and President at LUCID Vision Labs. “Featuring a rugged design for long-term reliability and a very attractive price point, the Triton camera is ideal for a wide range of demanding applications and harsh environments.”

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 SDK supports Windows, Linux 64bit and Linux ARM operating systems, and C, C++, C# and Python programming languages.

ADIMEC

Adimec launched the 65 megapixel Sapphire S-65A35 as well the DIAMOND D-12A09 at the recent Vision China, part of Laser World of Photonics China Shanghai 2019.

The SAPPHIRE S-65A35 renders phenomenal performance in a rectangular 9344×7000-pixel resolution running over 35 fps. The camera has a low read noise, with a good thermal design for passive cooling, and high dynamic range of 66dB, using Gpixel GMAX3265 global shutter sensor technology with a pixel size of 3.2 microns. These resolution and performance parameters make this camera an

exceptional next step in tools used in, for example semiconductors and display inspection and metrology.

The DIAMOND D-12A09 GigE Vision camera delivers 4096x3008-pixel resolution at 9 fps with 3.45-micron square pixels. Adimec’s DIAMOND 12-megapixel camera features optimized solution for applications like display or wafer inspection, requiring a high dynamic range and an excellent performance in measurements in dark. Special features in the camera enable Mura dark and Mura bright inspection without mechanical adaptation.