COGNEX US In-Sight SnAPP Vision Sensor Use-Cases

1. Presence/absence detection: A vision sensor's primary function is to detect an object's presence or absence within a specified region of interest. The output for these types of applications is typically binary, such as “yes/no,” “pass/fail,” or “OK/NG,” and can be used in both product and process-related tasks.

2. Process monitoring: Vision sensors ensure an automated system is running correctly and reduce errors in machine setup. For example, they verify that the system is diverting bad parts, communicating the right information to a centralized database and that parts are coming through the line as intended.

3. Sortation: At the most fundamental level, vision sensors perform binary classification. However, they also run multi-class inspections to sort defects into different categories based on multiple features or characteristics and correctly identify parts with variation.

4. Assembly verification: Vision sensors recognize multiple types of components in varying layouts and configurations to automate assembly, or completeness, checks. They locate and confirm whether components are present and correct and identify damaged or missing parts in kitted products.

5. Optical character recognition: In OCR applications, vision sensors convert alphanumeric text into a machine-readable format for traceability purposes. They can decipher different font types and read characters on reflective, low-contrast, and non-flat surfaces.

6. Object counting: Vision sensors are used in counting applications to verify the correct number of components in a kit or packaged assembly. Similarly, they are also used to ensure parts move down production lines at the correct rate to achieve capacity and throughput targets.

7. Identification: With the ability to read a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes, vision sensors enable manufacturers and logistics facilities to track and trace parts. They interpret codes into usable information, which is then transferred to a centralized system where it can be used to track inventory and shipments, verify product authenticity, and manage returns and recalls.