Video hardware - what to choose?

Vision systems have found their way into almost all industries. They are also great for the quality control process, as they allow efficient and fast evaluation of the final product.

Modern vision technology

The most common solution is the use of systems of one or more cameras, forming a video inspection system. It also consists of lighting, optics and cabling with accompanying software. The cameras operate very smoothly and adapt to the moving production line, capturing images. The software analyzes and refers to the recorded pattern, verifying the shapes, dimensions and colors of the part being examined. The system verifies that there are no deficiencies or that the product has been properly assembled. If there are any inconsistencies, the software reports the detection of a substandard product. This ensures that in the final stage of production we receive a product of the highest quality. Industrial cameras will work great on high-speed production lines with a small amount of space at the same time. They generate high-resolution images without having to stop the line. Depending on the customer’s needs, solutions using linear, 2D and also 3D cameras can be used, which additionally provide information on the shape and geometry of the product. The use of vision inspection technology allows for greater accuracy and, above all, significantly speeds up the inspection process.

3D scanners that control quality

Another example of the use of vision systems in quality control is the use of 3D scanners, which can create 3D models based on an existing object. The device maps the shape of an object by combining a set of points and creating digital clouds from them, which are then processed and combined into a complete mesh model. This makes it possible to map even very complex geometry quickly and accurately. However, several measurements need to be taken to be able to obtain information about the entire object. 3D scanners can use two technologies: laser or structured light. Laser technology is characterized by high precision and allows analyzing objects in difficult lighting conditions, but this involves longer processing times. Devices based on structured light projection have a high operating speed and a lower price, but are more sensitive to lighting conditions than laser scanners.

What are the characteristics of 3D scanners?

One of the biggest advantages of 3D scanners is their high accuracy and resolution. Measurement precision can reach up to the order of thousandths of a millimeter. As with cameras, the technology allows us to detect an object and compare it with a model. However, by comparing not an image, but a three-dimensional model, we can evaluate the geometry and see if it is consistent in terms of manufacturing accuracy with a reference CAD model, for example. The data obtained in this way can be used to decide whether to accept or reject the product. When purchasing a scanner, it is necessary to take into account the specific operating conditions on the production line. Variable temperature, humidity or lighting, significantly affect the quality of the results obtained. This type of system works best where lighting can be controlled. When deciding to buy the equipment, you should also take into account its cost, higher than in the case of cameras. Depending on the parameters and type of equipment, it ranges from several even to several hundred thousand zlotys.

Overview of solutions

Each of the technologies described has undoubted advantages. Both cameras and 3D scanners improve the quality control process with a very high degree of accuracy. However, the choice of the right solution depends on individual expectations and the conditions in which the system would work. The most important thing is to adapt the choice of the right equipment to your own needs and requirements. Click on the button below and describe your application to us – our expert will select the best solution for you!