The term “machine vision” is usually used when describing systems and technologies used in industrial automation, i.e. where “machines” in their broadest sense are used: machinery as mechanisms or devices that perform some work.
The term “computer vision” (CV) implies the use of a computer machine – a computer as the main element of such systems. Computer vision systems find application not only in industry (technology), but also in medicine (erythrocyte counting, iridodiagnostics, etc.), in security and safety tasks (license plate recognition, face recognition) and others. The main emphasis in computer vision is placed more on the algorithmic part, mathematics, rather than on the areas of its practical application.
In common practice, the word “machine” is associated with the word “automobile” rather than with the more general term “machinery. For example, a washing machine, but a household appliance. This is probably why we have another interpretation free of this ambiguity: technical vision. In our opinion, it is fully analogous to the English term “machine vision” and can be used on a par with the latter to define industrial systems that use vision in all its manifestations. Below we will talk about machine vision or technical vision systems.
Machine vision systems are becoming more and more accessible day by day, which is the reason for their widespread introduction in various areas of production. If you too are considering using a machine vision system, answer the simple question, “What do you need it for?”
There are several options:
Increasing production efficiency;
Product quality management;
Reducing human resources;
Increased accuracy of measurements;
Increasing the output of products.
The main directions of machine vision use:
Finding defects;
Control of shape and geometry;
Product sorting;
Robotics;
Logistics; Stacking;
Label reading;
Output inspection;
Shooting in hazardous or inaccessible areas.
During the operation of a machine vision system, an image is captured, and it is the image that serves as the source of invaluable information. This information is further processed, analyzed, evaluated, and used to make process control decisions.
Let’s elaborate on the advantages of introducing machine vision systems:
Increased production efficiency is achieved by:
Detecting defects earlier in the production process;
increased flexibility of the system in terms of controlling machines and mechanisms;
quick changeover of equipment;
Accounting for raw materials and supplies that are difficult for humans to evaluate.
Visual inspection systems are widely used for quality control of products at all stages of production and, eliminating the human factor, allow for a much more accurate, unbiased and formalized analysis of the object, increasing the number of points and the speed of control.
Thus, machine vision systems make it possible to ensure the production of products in the desired volume with the specified characteristics.
An uncomplicated system can be developed independently. To understand its components and correctly select them, as well as to learn all the necessary information you can from this information block. Read more about machine vision cameras or about choosing a lens in the corresponding articles.