Vision Experts

What are robotic visions systems?

A robotic vision system is a technology that enables a robot to “see.” These systems enable the machine to be able to identify, navigate, inspect or handle parts or tasks.

A robotic vision system consists of one or more cameras connected to a computer. The computer contains a processing software program that helps the robot interpret what it sees. Then, the robot follows the program’s instructions to complete the specified task.

Additional elements, such as lighting, image sensors, communications devices or other components, can be incorporated to add to the machine’s overall capabilities.

The capabilities for robotic vision systems are seemingly endless. Robots can be used to handle a wide variety of tasks, such as:

• Product sorting

• Product assembly

• Torquing

• Picking/Placing

• Bin picking

Another capability for robotic vision systems is switching between parts and products on the same line. A robotic vision system could determine the difference between two products being built and select the appropriate part to be installed at that step in the process.

While using robotic systems helps with general efficiency and productivity of an assembly plant, there are additional benefits that accompany the incorporation of a vision system with a robot.

Robots can be more precise and productive. Rather than requiring a stack of parts to be perfectly placed in alignment and orientation, a vision system can enable a robot to pick the correct part out of a bin of assorted products. This requires far less time to prepare the parts for installation in the assembly process.

Additionally, vision systems allow robots to have greater flexibility. A robot can identify where on the product it needs to complete its operation based on sight, rather than requiring a specific placement. This adaptability allows the assembly process to move quicker without being bogged down by imprecise placements.

Vision systems also offer greater quality control. When used for analyzing an object, a camera can magnify an image, allowing the robot to determine imperfections that would otherwise go unnoticed by a manual, human scan.