3 things you can quickly automate with machine vision

Automation is becoming increasingly accessible and can make common, repetitive tasks more efficient and accurate. Below we discuss three actions you can easily automate that provide immediate benefits in speed and quality.

1. Bin Picking: Automatic object recognition and grabbing with AI

Bin picking is a technology where a robot with a camera recognizes and picks up randomly placed objects in a bin. Using AI and 3D vision, the robot determines the best way to grab an object. This is widely used in industry to automate manufacturing processes and make them more efficient. Bin picking allows companies to work faster and reduce manual tasks.

Result:

The standard gains or benefits of a bin picking system depend on several factors, such as the size of the company, the complexity of the application and implementation costs. In general, the main benefits are:

a) Increased efficiency: Automation allows robots to work faster and without breaks, which increases throughput. This can increase production capacity by 20% to 50%, depending on the system and application.

b) Reduced labor costs: By automating repetitive tasks, companies can cut costs on labor and reduce the number of workers needed. This can lead to cost savings of 30% to 60% in labor costs in the long run.

c) Accuracy and consistency: Robots are less prone to errors due to fatigue and can improve accuracy, resulting in less waste and rework. This can lead to a 10% to 30% improvement in product quality.

d) Faster return on investment (ROI): The initial investment in a bin picking system can be quickly recouped through increased productivity and reduced operating costs. Companies often see an ROI within 1 to 3 years.

In general, bin picking system returns can vary, but companies can expect significant improvements in efficiency, cost savings and product quality. Returns are usually greatest in applications with many repetitive tasks and large volumes of products.

2. Optical sorting: faster and more accurate sorting

Optical sorting is a technology that uses cameras to sort objects based on their color, size or shape. This system is much faster and more accurate than manual sorting because it is capable of analyzing thousands of items per second. It is often used in the food industry, recycling and other manufacturing processes where precision is important. Optical sorting increases efficiency, reduces human error and ensures consistently higher product quality.

Optical sorting pays for itself through several benefits that improve efficiency, cost savings and quality:

a) Increased speed and productivity: The system can sort thousands of items per minute, much faster than manual work, leading to higher throughput and shorter processing times.

b) Reduced labor costs: Having the sorting done automatically reduces the need for manpower, saving labor costs in the long run.

c) Consistent quality and fewer errors: Optical sorting ensures consistent and accurate sorting, which increases product quality. This reduces waste, rework and increases customer satisfaction.

d) More efficient use of raw materials: In industries such as recycling, the system helps separate valuable materials more efficiently, which increases the yield of recycled materials.

Because of these benefits, an optical sorting system can usually pay for itself within 1 to 3 years, depending on the application and size of the operation.

3. Quality measurement: quality based on dimensions

Optical measurement uses cameras and image processing technologies to obtain accurate measurements of objects in various applications. The system works by capturing images of the object and then using software to analyze its shape, dimensions and position.

Here's how it works:

a) Image capture: A camera or multiple cameras in 2D or 3D take pictures of the object from different angles or in different lighting conditions.

b) Image processing: The captured images are analyzed by using different vision algorithms such as: Edge detection, CAD matching, Pattern matching and so on

c) Measurements: The software compares the detected features with predefined standards to accurately measure the object's length, width, height, or position.

Results: The system displays the measurements instantly, often with visual feedback, and can automatically make decisions, such as rejecting a defective object or adjusting the production process.

4. Advantages of optical measurement with a vision system include:

a) High accuracy: The system provides highly detailed and consistent measurements without the potential for human error.

b) Fast throughput: The process is automated, making it much faster than manual measurement.

c) Non-destructive: The object is not affected by the measurement process, which is ideal for delicate or expensive products.

d) Flexible and adaptive to different shapes

Applications: It is often used in quality control, robot-controlled systems, and manufacturing environments for measuring parts, checking dimensions or inspecting surfaces.

Optical measurement with a vision system increases product quality and provides efficient, cost-effective measurements in real time.