Bin-picking – the third dimension

Sometimes, the evaluation of two-dimensional images is not sufficient, and the task could be solved more easily using three dimensions. EVT is a specialist supplier of image processing software for 2D, 3D and thermal imaging, as well as image processing hardware for Windows and Linux. The software is used in many market sectors, including pharmaceutical, automotive and food. In addition to the standard command set, there are several special command sets, which are specifically tailored to individual tasks and sectors.

For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, the imprint on the label of the so-called vial (ampule) - the expiry date, batch number or the data matrix code - can be read and verified and its presence checked.

The Blob (Object Count) command is included in the Standard version of the EyeVision software and is a powerful tool. It counts everything that passes under the AVT camera on a conveyor belt – single objects or also objects, which touch each other. Various filters in the EyeVision software make it possible to count those objects separately.

The EyeVision 3D EVT system relies on performing an extremely fast image capture of the surface of the object. 3D point clouds can be used directly in the EyeVision 3D user interface to locate the respective position of the several parts.

Using 3D-Matching (KeyMatch command), pattern-matching with a previously taught template can be done. It is possible with only one 3D sensor to recognise the shape and position of any previously taught object. This enables gripping of complicated shapes and component parts.

EyeVision 3D is also suitable for inspection for defects, or damage to blister packages in the pharmaceutical industry or in volume measurement applications.
Using the graphical user interface and the EyeVision image processing software, installation of the EyeVision 3D system can be achieved without programming knowledge.

Hardware accessories

For image processing, the choice of the right illumination is essential. EVT supplies a wide range of innovative industrial lighting, including dark-field illumination (where the rays are refracted from the object and not all the light reaches the camera lens directly), such as the EyeLight LLA series. These are available as RGB model or in their separate colours: red, green, blue or white.

The dark-field ring lights are available with different inner and outer diameters. The inner diameters vary from 40 to 136mm and the outer diameters from 74 to 174mm. The LLA series is very compact, with a body height of only 20mm. It works best with working distances ranging from 5 to 10mm.

3D sensor

EyeVision now supports the Gocator 3D sensor from LMI, a compact sensor in an industrial housing with a protection class of up to IP67. The EyeVision software allows the sensor not only to capture an image but also to use the complete 3D command set of the software to measure, compare and read on the 3D point cloud or 2D grey-scale image.

Cameras

The EyeCheck 9000 fast smart camera series is available for the industrial market. As with all the smart cameras of the EyeCheck camera series, the EC9000 comes with the EyeVision image processing software. By default, the Standard version is uploaded to the camera, but the user can also upgrade to the Professional version or add a few special commands.

The standard sensor is a CMOS matrix grey-scale sensor. However, there are other options, such as a colour sensor for colour inspections, or line scan and thermal imaging sensors.

Users can also use cameras from Allied Vision: for all AVT cameras with the interfaces GigE and USB 3.0 it is now possible to use the EyeVision software.