Posted to News on 8th Apr 2008, 09:53
Vision system is a cost-effective alternative to smart cameras
Firstsight Vision is launching the IPD VA61 compact machine vision system, which contains all the processing power in a rugged enclosure instead of the camera head. This approach enables small cameras to be used, while the unit itself can be readily integrated into factory environments alongside other automation controllers.
The VA61 supports two dedicated GigE camera ports (in addition to one GigE-compliant network port) for a range of DALSA monochrome and colour GigE cameras such as the DALSA Genie. The use of GigE vision makes it possible to have long Ethernet cable lengths between the IPD VA controller and the inspection point. Using an Ethernet hub, a large number of cameras can be connected to the two VA61 camera ports. Multiple camera inputs enable the inspection of different views of the same part or even different parts simultaneously. This integrated functionality provides a cost-effective and less complex device than comparable smart camera implementations.
This product has been designed to offer flexibility, speed and choice of camera to match the specific application. A powerful embedded processor ensures fast inspection times. With extensive hardware support for part-in-place detection, strobe illumination, camera trigger and part counting for delayed pass, fail and rework part sorting, the need for an additional PLC is virtually eliminated.
The VA61 offers two distinct software interfaces, iNspect and Sherlock. iNspect is a versatile and easy-to-use inspection tool that can be applied across a wide range of industries including automotive, packaging and pharmaceutical. The underlying toolset includes capabilities for positioning, measuring, identification and flaw detection.
Included within iNspect is iLabel, an inspection tool designed specifically for the packaging industry. It is used for verifying the placement, quality and validity of labels on packaged goods. iLabel includes automatic positioning, trainable inspection tools and identification readers.
For more complex inspection tasks, Sherlock provides a greater level of flexibility and control through the use of a scripting language, offering tools and capabilities for almost all applications.
