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AI-powered 3D machine vision system is ‘world first’
Published:  03 April, 2024

Cognex has launched a product which it describes as “the world's first 3D vision system with AI”. The In-Sight L38 3D vision system combines AI, 2D, and 3D vision technologies to solve a variety of inspection and measurement applications.

The system creates “unique” projection images that combine 3D information into easy-to-label 2D images for simplified training, and reveals features not visible when using traditional 2D imaging. AI tools detect variable or undefined features, while rule-based algorithms provide 3D measurements to deliver reliable inspection results.

“In factory automation, where fast deployment and reliability are not just desired, but essential, the In-Sight L38 offers both,” says Carl Gerst, executive vice-president of Cognex’s Vision and ID Products business. “It's more than a 3D vision system. It's an AI-powered solution for achieving new levels of quality and performance in automated inspections.”

The system is said to simplify the process of configuring 3D vision systems using an embedded AI technology based on pre-trained models with domain-specific data. Example-based training replaces the complex step-based programming previously needed, combining many traditional rule-based tools to streamline the development of applications.

Cognex’s AI-powered vision system mounted above an assembly line, where it inspects products in 3D.

The AI-powered 3D tools can be set up in minutes, needing as few as 5 to 10 labelled images to automate a task. With a single tool, users can detect challenging defects, gauge variances in three dimensions, and obtain results in real-world units.

Patented, speckle-free laser optics minimise visual noise and glare to capture higher resolution images than traditional laser displacement sensors. A high-powered laser delivers fast acquisition to support high line speeds. The laser meets Class 2 safety standards, eliminating the need for expensive enclosures, and provides more light than traditional systems, lowering exposure requirements and allowing increased line speeds.

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