Industrial Vision Systems enters 20th year in business

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IVS continues to spearhead the automation revolution supplying some of the world’s leading brands with machine vision technology.

Oxford, United Kingdom, March 1, 2020 – Industrial Vision Systems (IVS®) is celebrating its 20th anniversary as a leading global machine vision provider. Founded in 2000, IVS has since grown to now serve customers around the world, with the supply of thousands of vision systems over their impressive 20-year growth.

“We’re very proud to see what IVS has become,” said Earl Yardley, Director, one of the co-founders of IVS. “We started IVS by mastering our clients’ production and quality control challenges. Reflecting on the continuing success we’ve had, it’s a reminder that we are still on the right path, particularly with the growth of machine vision, and the advent of deep learning and artificial intelligence in vision system deployment.”

With proficiency in machine vision, robotics and industrial automation, IVS has developed a comprehensive suite of standard vision inspection machines, combined with hundreds of unique solutions to service major industries such as medical device, pharma, automotive, electronics and packaging.

IVS’s impressive growth can also be credited to the rise of machine vision and automation within production processes. Through standalone projects and complete automation lines, IVS’s global team has demonstrated its indisputable capability to support their customers at every step of the project process.

Andrew Waller, Director and co-founder, added: “IVS has an outstanding engineering team, who together address some of the most demanding and complex machine vision applications. Our team’s enthusiasm to understand and be tested by our customer problems has kept us focussed on being innovative, to ultimately further develop the company so that we can rise to any challenge over the next twenty years. We want to thank all our customers and employees for their trust and commitment which has made IVS one of the most respected machine vision suppliers to industry today.”

Launched in 2000, IVS vision systems are used all over the world in automated production processes for inspection, guidance, identification, measurement, tracking and counting. Its systems are reputed to be some of the most innovative and advanced machine vision solutions on the market today, successfully deployed in thousands of systems around the world.

IVS launches new features across vision inspection machines

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Industrial Vision Systems Ltd (IVS), a supplier of quality control vision systems to industries including medical device, pharmaceuticals, automotive, food and electronics, is launching a series of new features across its full range of inspection machines. This innovative functionality, which includes multi-language support and updated inspection features, is designed to give manufacturers increased brand and warranty protection and to allow systems to be deployed in more diverse production environments.

IVS’s new multi-language support means the visualisation of process information can now be displayed in real-time between supported languages. These include English, Chinese, French, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish and Czech. To conform to the Machinery Directive of the European Union, languages can be switched during the automatic operation of the IVS system. This will benefit IVS’s growing international customer-base who are integrating its systems and machines in global locations, as well as UK manufacturers with a diverse ethnic workforce.

Inspection capability has also been upgraded. One such function is contour matching for enhanced verification. IVS now offers an improved integrated inspection capability that enables pattern matching using geometric contour features. The functionality allows more robust feature extraction, especially in environments of uneven illumination or obscured objects. This will help functions such as part verification, pattern recognition, label checking and robot positioning.
IVS has also introduced improved data handling across its full range of machines. As a result, large datasets of inspection data and images can now be visualised with live updates of information registers on the machine interface, allowing for faster feedback and control. This allows production and quality managers to have better information on the quality levels achieved in their factories. These advanced features are set to be rolled out across all IVS machines over the coming months.

Earl Yardley, Industrial Vision Systems Director, comments: “We are continuing to innovate and improve our product offering. The additional multi-language features benefit our customers by increasing productivity and allowing our vision system solutions to be deployed globally. Innovation is within our DNA. Our solutions continue to be developed on the very latest machine vision algorithms and industry-defining usability for automated visual inspection machines. These new features will benefit all the industry sectors we work in, from medical device manufacturers through to printing & packaging customers.”

Machine vision trends – what we can expect in 2019

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Over the past year, unparalleled levels of developments have occurred in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, 3D imaging, and robotic process automation – none more so than on the factory floor. Industrial Vision Systems Ltd (IVS), a supplier of vision inspection solutions to industries such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, food & drink, automotive, and printing & packaging, provides vision systems for quality control and robotic vision. This is a particular trend, amongst four others, which IVS believes will be prevalent in 2019.

3D Imaging and Bin Picking

Automation is driving factories to be smart and to reduce the workforce in operations where industrial automation can replace a person. Machine vision has been used for some time for the final quality control inspection, but new markets are opening up with the advent of 3D sensors and integrated solutions for bin picking. Random objects are picked by a robot gripper irrespective of the position and orientation of the part. 3D vision systems can recognise randomly placed parts in large scanning volumes, such as a tote and part boxes. The picking of complex objects in different orientations and stacks is possible thanks to dynamic robot handling. Combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) with bin picking operations allows autonomous part selection, increasing productivity and cycle time, reducing the need for human interaction in the process.

Deep Learning in the Cloud

The coming of 5G data networks for autonomous vehicles provides the ability to perform cloud-based machine vision computation. Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC) allows large amounts of data to be processed in the cloud for machine vision applications. Deep learning algorithms using Convolutional Neural Network classifiers allows image classification, object detection and segmentation at speed. Development of these new AI and deep learning system will increase over the coming year.

Robotics

2018 was a record year for robot sales according to the International Federation of Robotics with industrial robot sales increasing by 31 per cent. Trends such as human collaborative robots, simplification of use and process learning have helped propel the use of robots in industrial automation. In the future industrial robots will be easier and quicker to program using intuitive interfaces. The human-robot collaboration will support the flexible production of small quantity production with high complexity. The reduction in complexity of use allows the widespread use of robots and vision systems in the mid to long term.

Hyperspectral Imaging

Next generation modular hyperspectral imaging systems provide chemical material properties analysis in industrial environments. Chemical Colour Imaging visualises the molecular structure of materials by different colouring in the resulting images. This allows the chemical composition to be analysed in standard machine vision software. Typical applications include plastic detection in meat production, detection of different recyclable materials and blister pill inspection quality control. The main barrier for such systems is the amount of data and speed required for processing, but the development of faster processes, better algorithms and on camera calibration still make this a hot topic for 2019.
Thermal Imaging Industrial Inspection

Thermal imaging cameras have traditionally been used for defence, security and public safety with far-ranging uses of thermal images for detection. For many industrial applications, such as the production of parts and components for the automotive or electronics industry, thermal data is critical. While machine vision can see a production problem, it cannot detect thermal irregularities. Thermal imagery combined with machine vision is a growing area, allowing manufacturers to spot problems which can’t be seen by eye or standard camera systems. Thermal imaging provides non-contact precision temperature measurement and non-destructive testing – an area of machine vision and automation control set to grow.

Earl Yardley, Industrial Vision Systems Director, comments: “Industry 4.0-related technologies are driving much of the changes that are currently taking place in manufacturing. This applies in all sectors, but it is particularly important in high-specification and highly regulated industries like food & drink, pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing. There are many reasons for companies moving towards Factory Automation technologies including making production lines more efficient, making more effective use of resources, and improving productivity. I fully expect to see growing demand in this area across many sectors in 2019.”

IVS featured in “Robots and Production” Magazine in Germany

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An article by Christian Demant, Director of IVS, has appeared in the leading German manufacturing technology magazine, “Robots and Production” (www.robotik-produktion.de/). The article reports on the standards and risk assessments carried out by IVS with regard to installation of vision systems onto robots. The latest IVS-RICi Robot Inspection Cells are included in the article, included highlights relating to a recent machine sold to a major automotive manufacturer. IVS continue to develop state-of-the-art machine vision cameras, systems and machines for use in multi-robot inspection cells.

A copy of the article (in german language), can be found here:
www.robotik-produktion.de/fachartikel/roboter-duo-prueft-achsen/

Industrial Vision Systems launches 2019 company brochure with a host of new technologies

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Industrial Vision Systems (IVS®), a supplier of vision inspection machines and solutions to industry, is pleased to announce the release of its new 2019 corporate brochure. This 16-page, full-colour brochure presents a sample of the corporation’s strong machine vision products, coupled with the range of inspection machines available from the IVS® portfolio.

The company, based at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, is using the brochure to provide an insight for readers into its latest developments, training services, and new products which includes Sorting Machines, Thermal Imaging Inspection and Robot Inspection Cells for next generation automated inspection.

The brochure is designed to ensure that readers are provided with information on how IVS® inspection machines recognise, measure, and monitor at dynamic speeds at ultra-high definition levels. Customers around the globe rely on IVS® systems and machinery for robust, automated visual inspection of their manufacturing processes. IVS® machines provide warranty and brand protection, stop fines from customers and consumers, while increasing manufacturing quality.

IVS Director, Earl Yardley comments: “Our new brochure is designed to provide both current and prospective customers with a preview into our very latest vision system capabilities. We have at our disposal vast experience in industrial image processing which comes in the form of a large team of vision engineering specialists who together offer an extraordinary range of capability in machine vision technology and industrial automation. We continue to strengthen our machine portfolio to cover the very latest machine vision algorithms, allowing us to leverage the most up-to-date vision technology for 2019. This visual brochure provides a glimpse into our latest developments, product launches, and application areas.”

To download a copy of the brochure, please visit:
IVS Product Overview PDF

Many UK workers unconcerned about robots taking their jobs

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However, findings reveal some misconceptions about the productive role robots can play in the workplace

A survey of over 2,000 UK workers has shown that many are unconcerned about the impact new technology may have on their current job roles. The research, conducted by Industrial Vision Systems (IVS), a supplier of machine vision solutions to industry, found that 39 percent would be happy if a factory used artificial intelligence robots to make decisions on quality control and a further 10 percent would be very happy.

However, in contrast, the research also found some stark misconceptions about the impact robots and artificial intelligence can have in aiding productivity in the workplace. A quarter of employees (25 percent) stated that if they had a robot colleague assisting them at work, they would feel threatened that they might take their job. 22 percent also said that they would be sad that it’s potentially one less person to talk to in the workplace and another 18 percent said that they would be afraid the robot would make a mistake.

In comparison, just 11 percent said that they were confident that the job would be done well if they had a robot colleague assisting them at work, and 13 percent were generally happy with the thought.

IVS provides vision systems for robots which enable companies to enhance their productivity by utilising robots to assist human workers with inspection processes. This relieves the human worker from what you may call more commonplace work, which means they are then deployed to higher value tasks within the workplace. In the future, production inspection will include space for an operator and a robot to work in partnership as part of the quality control process of manufacturing.

Considering the survey findings, IVS believes that working with collaborative robots has the added advantage of working safely and efficiently in workspaces currently occupied by humans and that the current misconception of working with vision enabled robots could hinder productivity levels in various sectors and industries.

Next Generation Machine Vision Cameras

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IVS-NCGi Machine Vision Cameras

The next-generation IVS-NCGi range of digital cameras from Industrial Vision Systems provides a breakthrough in flexibility, performance and ease of use for machine vision inspection. With heightened resolution options for more precision and faster frame rates, the cameras are designed for integration into modern product processes. Its compact form factor easily fits into space constrained manufacturing lines and cells.

With manufacturers relying on dependable and consistent machine vision throughout the production process, these advanced camera heads provide industrial grade inspection capability with much higher resolutions allowing them to handle the most complex inspection and quality control tasks. Full integration with the IVS software platforms make it one of the most flexible vision systems on the market today.

The cameras come ready to be mounted with standard LED lighting options plus a wide range of field-changeable C-mount lenses and industrial autofocus lens options. The powerful IVS software platforms allow simple set-up and quick integration for inspection across all industry sectors. The cameras are ideally suited for presence verification, gauging, surface inspection and optical character recognition. In addition, the cameras fit the standard IVS-SVP IP65 rated housing for integration into food and harsh manufacturing environments.

The IVS-NCGi cameras offer comprehensive and real-time communication between the cameras and factory information systems. IVS vision systems are designed to communicate with all PLCs, master controllers and proprietary factory controls out of the box allowing rapid integration and easy commissioning on the production floor. They offer fast and efficient operation at every stage from image capture to data output.

Industrial Vision Systems Scoops Prestigious Industry Award

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Industrial Vision Systems (IVS), a supplier of machine vision solutions to industry, has won the Innovative Vision Solution Award at the 2017 PPMA Group Industry Awards for their work on automated vision inspection systems for collaborative robots. The gala event, held at Birmingham’s National Conference Centre on Tuesday 26 September, recognised the best examples of innovation, smart manufacturing, entrepreneurship and collaboration in industry.

An independent panel of 10 industry experts chose finalists in each of the 11 categories, which also included Innovative Robotic Machinery, Partnership of the Year and the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award. The award was presented by Denis Bulgin, Press Officer for the UKIVA (UK Industrial Vision Association).

IVS has continued to strive forward in 2017 with innovative designs and developments to ensure it meets the requests of its growing customer-base. It has successfully implemented its range of vision systems into many inspection applications & machines across a variety of industries through 2017, from automated pack inspection through to high-speed pick & place robot control. In addition, this year IVS relocated into brand new 10,000 sq ft premises at the prestigious Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire which has allowed it to grow further and capitalise on new, emerging markets.

PPMA 2017 Awards

The PPMA Awards night attracts more than 400 industry professionals, who come together for a three-course gala dinner, joined this year by awards hosts; stand-up comedian Stewart Francis and Sky Sports News presenter Hayley McQueen.

Industrial Vision Systems Launches 2017 Company Brochure

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IVS has launched its new 2017 company brochure demonstrating its expertise in vision technology for automated quality control. The company, which recently relocated to its new premises at the prestigious Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, is using the brochure to allow readers a glimpse into its latest developments, training services, and new products which serve sectors such as automotive, medical device, food & drink, electrical, and printing & packaging industries.

Industrial Vision Systems is expecting year on year double digit growth in machine vision and robotics on the manufacturing floor over the next decade. As such, products that are featured in the new company brochure include its standard inspection machines for quality control & product verification as well as retro-fit vision systems, vision components and smart cameras for end-users and machine builders. In addition, specifications and images for all IVS end of line quality control machine vision systems are featured in the brochure.

The brochure also promotes IVS’s new on-site training capabilities. Since moving into the new premises at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, IVS now offers practical courses which are delivered by its team of professional technical Instructors. These courses range from one-day operator courses, covering basic day-to-day use and general operation of the vision system, to four-day in-depth maintenance courses that cover more complex applications and complete machines.

The material also displays the company’s latest developments, and amongst these are the IVS 3D inspection solutions. IVS vision systems are now enabled for advanced 3D vision applications which measure complex shapes and products in three dimensions with a single camera with real time delivery. Robot inspection cells are also featured which provide fully automated inspection of large sub-assemblies, engines and complex components.

The brochure is designed to give current clients and potential new customers a preview into our vision system capabilities. IVS have vast experience in industrial image processing which comes in the form of a large team of vision engineering specialists who offer an extraordinary range of expertise in machine vision technology and industrial automation. This visual brochure provides a glimpse into our latest developments, product launches, and application areas.

The new 2017 brochure can be downloaded here.

IVS Brings A New Dimension To Quality Control With 3D Industrial Inspection

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IVS has launched a range of vision systems for 3D vision operations in industrial environments. This series of products offers a wide range of powerful and flexible sensors, from single point displacement units to full 3D point cloud scanners. These products are designed for reliable operation in harsh industrial surroundings ensuring longevity and low maintenance.

The 3D vision systems introduced by IVS can also be used for many challenging inspection and guidance applications where traditional machine visions would struggle, such as assembly verification, robot pick and place, and precision 3D measurements. With these improved systems, manufacturers for industries such as food & drink, automotive, pharmaceutical, printing & packaging and electronics can receive quality data instantly, and at full production speed. The accurate, high-speed measurement avoids costly slowdowns or processing errors, ultimately unlocking higher profit margins.

3D Vision Systems

The advanced capability of the 3D systems, compared to conventional two-dimensional sensors, comes from their ability to measure size and position with extremely high accuracy – with resolutions down to micron level – regardless of an object’s height or colour. The sensors are able to capture 3D, scatter, and grayscale images simultaneously to produce a more robust and reliable vision control system, either through stand-alone sensors or complex engineered machines.

The IVS 3D products range from versatile high-speed cameras that deliver high quality 3D and contrast images to smart and configurable stand-alone sensors that facilitate rapid development.

“One of the biggest vision technology challenges manufacturers face is the integration of 3D cameras. This complex technology requires vision engineering at an extremely high level; something that we can provide. IVS have experience in integrating such systems in many factory environments and applications. These 3D machine vision systems provide factory calibrated 3D with built-in lighting which means they instantly provide precision results, thus making the integration easier for the customer.”

IVS is already successfully implementing the 3D technology into several inspection applications across a variety of industries, from automated height inspection through to pick & place robot control. With new 3D technologies in development IVS is well placed to provide the very latest vision system technology and solutions.

For further information on IVS’s 3D vision systems please visit:

https://www.industrialvision.co.uk/applications/3d-vision-systems

IVS Makes Front Cover Of Leading Machine Vision Industry Magazine

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We were delighted to have featured the lead article in the prestigious industry magazine, Vision Systems Design.

With clear IVS branding on the front cover of the magazine, we were also given the opportunity to contribute a double-page editorial which reviewed our vision system capabilities when inspecting automotive electronic assemblies.

Vision Systems Design is the leading global publication serving engineering, design and integration professionals who are decision makers for vision and image processing. Therefore, the readership for this particular article is extremely suitable for Industrial Vision Systems.

Vision Systems Desgin

New Automated Inspection Machine Offers Artificial Intelligence to the Food & Drink Industry

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Industrial Vision Systems (IVS) has launched a new automated inspection and rejection machine that provides critical quality checks after the final packing process has been completed. The IVS-LAMi-P utilises state-of-the-art artificial intelligence machine vision technology, providing the user with automated high-speed and critical inspection tasks checking packs, labels, seal, print, size, defect and overall product quality.

Designed for ease of set-up and quick product changeover, the IVS-LAMi-P will automatically reject bad products which, in turn, reduces customer fines and enhances the bottom-line of a business. This also ensures a high level of quality leaves the factory floor from manufacturers representing the food and drink industry. The machine also comes with various options to suit the customer. This includes physical or air reject options; an optional link to scanners and factory information systems; the machines can also be custom designed to suit a business’s specific production needs.

Packaging Inspection Vision Inspection Machine

With optional multi vision sensors the machine can provide adaptable inspection from all sides of the product reducing the need for manual inspection providing a guarantee of product quality being delivered to customers.

The IVS-LAMi-P will fully inspect dates and codes; package size measurements; label placement and alignment; film colour verification; and print quality inspection. In addition, the machine also provides 1D and 2D code checking and saves both HD photos of rejected items along with statistical shift data and information for future reference.

The IVS-LAMi-P machine is fully designed to increase the bottom-line of a business by reducing customer fines and enhancing the quality of products leaving the factory floors, IVS have taken the very latest in AI technology and made it readily useable. Available to manufacturers in key industries such as food, drink, printing and packaging the machines have been developed with the very latest vision technology to replace human inspectors at the end of line. Quality control can now be fully automated given peace of mind to food producers. IVS are committed to continuously delivering products and services of the highest quality and greatest value to our customers which they can, in turn, pass on to their own customer-base.

Further details on the product can be found at: www.industrialvision.co.uk/products/packaging-label-inspection-machine