Keys on Machine Vision Selection

Modern Production and manufacturing process now rely on the use of machine vision technology for test, measurement and inspection task. Nowadays there are many machine vision vendors offering products with different features and applications. This paper will highlight some of the key attributes we should look for in a machine vision supplier, and why taking the time to carefully assess a supplier’s capability and choosing the right partner will save the time and money in the long run.

There are many factors to be considered when choosing a machine vision technology from specific vendors. The factors are :

The Experience of the company.

1. Hardware Features. The parameter considered are :
1. Raw Image quality : Resolutions, Contrast/Sharpness, SNR, can be parameterized by MTF/SFR.
2. Speed.
3. Ability to manipulate image in subpixel level.

2. Software features.

1. OS supported.
2. Performance.
3. Reliability.
4. Hardware supported.
5. The modularity of the SDK (ex. COM, Activex).
6. The flexibility of the SDK to be customized.

4. Compatibility with other products, for example lighting systems, mechanical systems, control systems.

5. After Sales Service and support. Parameters considered :
1. Inventory reserve for emergency order fulfillment
2. Long-term product availability for a technology migration path
3. Advanced replacements for immediate failure replacement
4. Priority technical support
5. Flexible product training- on-site or at vendor’s training center
6. Customized hardware and software solutions
7. Vision system application engineering consulting
8. On-line logistical information for order tracking and account management
9. In-depth on-line knowledge base and training tools