The manufacturing sector is moving towards greater and greater levels of automation as they strive for higher levels of productivity, safety, and low-cost production and embedded vision will a key role in the future.
Embedded vision combines image capture and processing abilities into one vision system, which is typically embedded in a larger system with a broader focus. While it’s relatively new, embedded vision will play a major role in the automation’s progression in manufacturing.
The manufacturing sector is moving towards greater and greater levels of automation as they strive for higher levels of productivity, safety, and low-cost production. Automation technologies have been a reliable source of efficiency for manufacturers. As this technology advances, embedded vision systems will become increasingly common.
Embedded vision technology and Industrie 4.0
Industry 4.0 comprises different emerging automation and communication technologies. A factory floor with Industry 4.0 technology leverages a wealth of data to make more informed real-time decisions and features a much higher degree of automation in production.
Embedded vision will be a critical part of the development and maturation of Industry 4.0 on a global scale. Vision systems embedded into robotics, for example expands the ability to capture production level data. It also improves flexibility and accuracy for greater efficiency. The same holds true for many types of automation equipment with embedded vision. Overall, embedded vision will help bring factory automation closer to a more connected, data-driven and productive future.
Embedded vision and the autonomous factory
As automation technology advances, factory floors will eventually achieve full autonomy or nearly full autonomy. Autonomous factories of the future will also leverage feedback loops from multiple sensors for continuous optimization in operations.
Embedded vision systems are also important for feeding visual data into machine learning and deep learning systems for predictive decision-making. This could take form of preventive maintenance where a machine fixes itself before a major breakdown occurs, or even to find new efficiencies on an ongoing basis.
In a future with autonomous factories, embedded vision systems are essential for the autonomous operation, navigation, and communication required for complete automation of production.
For now, embedded vision continues to penetrate new verticals. This disruptive technology will gain favor with manufacturers and equipment original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as embedded vision holds great potential for delivering higher levels of automation and productivity.
This article originally appeared in Vision Online. AIA is a part of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), a CFE Media content partner. Edited by Chris Vavra, production editor, CFE Media, [email protected].
