In the world of robots and automation, vision systems are key for helping machines “see” and understand their surroundings. This tech allows robots to do tasks with precision, speed, and reliability.
Several companies and brands have become important in this field, contributing to automation’s progress. In this article, we’ll look at the top 10 robot vision makers and brands in the 2D Vision and 3D Vision category.
Before we begin,
What is a Robot Vision?
Robot vision is like giving eyes to robots, allowing them to see and understand their surroundings. It combines cameras, sensors, and software to capture and analyze images, helping robots identify objects, navigate spaces, or perform tasks with precision. Imagine a robot in a factory that can pick out the right part from a conveyor belt full of different items, just by looking at them, similar to how you’d spot your friend in a crowd.
This technology is crucial in automation for tasks like assembling products, quality control, and even guiding autonomous vehicles. Whether it’s using 2D vision systems to recognize shapes and patterns or 3D vision systems to understand depth and distance, robot vision enhances a robot’s ability to interact with the physical world effectively. It’s all about making robots smarter and more adaptable, improving efficiency, and reducing errors in various applications.
Top 10 Robot Vision Makers & Brands:
1. COGNEX:
COGNEX is a top global company for machine vision and barcode reading in industries. They’re famous for being accurate and reliable. They offer various vision solutions, like smart cameras, strong vision sensors, and advanced software for jobs such as finding defects and 3D vision. This shows how committed they are to making new things.
One of their latest inventions is the In-Sight 3800. It’s an all-in-one vision system that’s really fast and can take super clear pictures. It helps companies work better and make sure things are okay when they’re making stuff. This keeps COGNEX in the lead for robot vision technology.
2. KEYENCE:
KEYENCE is a Japanese company that makes good automation and inspection machines. They have special robot vision systems. These systems are great at doing things with high accuracy and can be used for many jobs. For example, they help check if things are good quality, measure parts, and guide robots. KEYENCE’s software is easy to use, and their machines work fast to process pictures. This is why many companies choose them when they want a robot vision system that works well and is accurate.
The KEYENCE Vision Sensor – IV series stands out for its easy-to-use interface and fast image processing. It’s a top pick for companies looking for dependable and accurate robot vision systems.
3. Basler:
Basler is a German company that makes top-quality digital cameras and vision parts. Their cameras are used in various industries, like manufacturing, medicine, and robotics.Basler’s cameras take really clear pictures and move data quickly, which is great for robot vision. The company always works to have the latest technology, so their stuff is good for hard automation jobs.
4. Intel RealSense:
Intel RealSense, a part of Intel, works on creating technology that helps robots and computers “see” in 3D. They provide cameras and software that allow robots to recognize things and move around. Many robots use their tech because it’s accurate and can do lots of different things.
5. SensoPart:
SensoPart is a German company that makes really good vision sensors and image systems. They have different tools for helping in factories, like finding things, knowing colors, and measuring how far stuff is. SensoPart’s machines are strong and don’t break easily. They are used in many jobs, like cars, medicine, and making food. People like SensoPart because they have new and smart ways of doing vision stuff and are one of the best robot vision makers.
SensoPart VISOR® Robotic is widely regarded for its precision and versatility, making it a highly dependable choice for various industrial automation applications.
6. Pickit 3D:
Pickit 3D is a company from Belgium that’s really good at making robot vision systems for picking and placing things. They make these systems to work well with friendly robots (cobots), so even small and medium-sized businesses can use them to do work faster. With PickIt’s 2D and 3D vision systems, robots can see and handle all sorts of things, even if they’re not the same shape or size. They’re used in different jobs, like online shopping and moving stuff around.
Pickit 3D’s 3D vision applications is great for lots of jobs. It can help take things out of boxes or bags, pick up different objects, like metal pieces, and help with tasks like putting things together, adding materials to surfaces, and giving out liquids, all done with accuracy and speed.
7. OMRON:
OMRON is a big Japanese company known for making a wide range of machines for factories. They also create special robot vision systems. These robot vision systems help robots see better, which makes them better at checking things, ensuring quality, and picking up objects. People like OMRON’s robot vision systems because they work quickly and accurately, benefiting automation projects around the world.
8. Teledyne DALSA:
Teledyne DALSA, part of Teledyne Technologies, is a top company worldwide in making digital cameras and computer chips. They have lots of great vision systems and cameras that work really well. These tools are used in many areas, like robotics. Teledyne DALSA’s vision technology helps robots do things like follow objects, find mistakes, and check if parts are put together correctly. It’s very precise, which makes work go faster and better.
9. Sick AG:
Sick AG, a German company, is a trusted name in making sensors and machines for automation. They are famous for their vision systems and cameras that give very accurate data right away. These tools are used in robotics, especially in car factories, where accuracy and speed are very important. Sick AG always comes up with new ideas, which is why they’re one of the best robot vision makers.
10. Specim:
Specim is a company from Finland. They create special cameras and machines that show us things we can’t see with our eyes. People use these tools in farming, forestry, mining, making food, and looking at the environment. They help check if food is good, see how forests are doing, and find important stuff in mines. These tools are helpful for scientists, researchers, and industries that work with hyperspectral imaging.
The Specim FX50 is a small camera that’s great at sorting plastics in different temperatures. It works fast and can talk to computer programs, making it a good pick for industries that need reliable hyperspectral data.
How Do You Choose the Right Robot Vision for Your Needs?
Choosing the right robot vision system involves a few key steps to match it perfectly with what you need it to do. Here’s a simple guide:
Identify Your Task:
Start by figuring out exactly what you need the vision system for. Is it to check if products are okay, help a robot arm place things correctly, or navigate a space? Your task decides what kind of vision system you pick.
Look at Your Workspace:
The place where the vision system will work matters a lot. Bright lights, lots of dust, or constant shaking can affect how well it works. Pick a system that can handle these conditions.
Detail Level:
Think about how much detail you need. For very precise work, you need a system that sees things very clearly. For bigger, less detailed tasks, you might not need as much precision.
Compatibility:
Make sure the new vision system can work well with any machines, software, or tech you already use. It should easily fit into your existing setup.
Budget:
Consider how much you can spend and what you expect in return. Sometimes, spending more at first can save you money later by making everything work better and last longer.
By thinking about these points, you can choose a robot vision system that fits your needs today and can grow with you into the future.
Conclusion:
In summary, robot vision is super important for today’s automation and robots. The top 10 robot vision makers and brands we talked about in this article have really helped out. They’ve made cool stuff that makes robots better and helps industries work smoother. Whether it’s about being accurate, fast, or able to do lots of different things, these companies are all about doing a great job in the world of robot vision.
As automation keeps getting better, we can count on these companies to be a big part of how robots and automation grow in the future.
Are you looking for compare both 2D Vision & 3D Vision?