Machine vision technology has been around for decades, ever since robots and other machines were equipped with cameras. Today, machine vision systems are frequently used in assembly processes, autonomous vehicles, food production, item packaging and logistics – even to enhance medical examinations.

The systems are nowadays digitally advanced with high-resolution lenses, extremely sensitive sensors and fast-switching LED lights. With the help of 3D technology, they can perceive the depth and different angles of an item and detect deviations down to the nano millimeter level. When equipped with infrared radiation functionality, the systems are able to create thermal “heat maps” to scan and identify items. The cameras and sensors are complemented by software solutions that capture data and use it to make decisions and instruct the hardware.

In industrial manufacturing, the systems are often mounted on, or embedded in, robots working on the actual production line. Their visual measuring is extremely quick and precise, even at very high speeds, and instantly detects and classifies scratches, dents, color deviations, or other defects. This is particularly important when surface quality is key, like in the production of sheet metal, glass, paper, and critical electronic components such as semiconductors.

Besides material inspection, machine vision systems can be used to ensure that pieces are picked and placed correctly and sorted in the right order. This saves time and improves overall production efficiency. The system software also enables self-teaching, and machines can learn how to recognize defects or patterns common for a specific product model, for example, to further improve the production process.