Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA
Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA

Machine Vision and Signal Processing

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Expertise

The Department of Machine Vision and Signal Processing develops and implements innovative system and application solutions for information processing in conjunction with technical processes. The focus of research and development work is on smart measurement and inspection systems (e.g., for zero-defect manufacturing) as well as high-performance automation and process optimization solutions. The department is specialized in the intelligent, automated interpretation of image and sensor information to solve complex tasks. Applications include among others:

  • specialized 2D measurement and inspection systems (e.g., with industrial image processing, thermography, ultrasound),
  • efficient 3D measurement and inspection technologies with industrial computed tomography and optical 3D sensors (e.g., laser line sensors, 3D smart cameras, time-of-flight cameras),
  • automated 3D object recognition and scene analysis for automated applications (e.g., bin-picking, belt-picking) and assembly, and
  • accurate monitoring of machine conditions and forecasting of quality parameters based on high-frequent machine signals (e.g., vibration, force, acoustics).

Key areas of activity

 

2D image processing

Zero-defect manufacturing is often only possible if each single produced product is inspected. Contactless image processing systems are ideally suited to handle such high-volume inspection tasks efficiently.

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3D image processing

The use of 3D sensor technology in manufacturing is rapidly advancing thanks to ever faster and denser data acquisition. Our high-performance and intelligent 3D image processing methods result in innovative and highly accurate solutions in industrial measurement and inspection technologies, object recognition or scene analysis.

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Non-destructive testing

Computed tomography (CT) can be used in quality assurance to generate a complete, non-destructive 3D image of a component with all its internal geometric features and structures. Consequently, material inspections and measurements are carried out simultaneously in one data set. Supplemented by intelligent image processing and thermographic measurement technology, we deliver comprehensive and highly-specialized inspection solutions.

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Condition monitoring and quality forecasting

Condition monitoring and quality forecasting aim at detecting defects and faulty conditions in production at an early stage. The continuous analysis of sensor data and process information keeps production running at an optimum and prevents a decline in product quality. Our innovative methods can be universally applied in numerous branches of industry.

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Motion analysis for optimizing processes

The analysis of the worker's movements, or scene analysis, makes it possible to improve processes in a human-centered way and to automate activities that do not add value. In addition, eye tracking can be used to capture the needs of the worker in data-driven user needs assessments. Typical areas of application include assembly assistance and training new employees, as well as automated documentation and touch-free control.

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Image simulation and virtual measurement planning

Generating image data for AI-based analyses is a time-consuming and cost-intensive business. Images that are generated artificially but still appear realistic to sensors can considerably reduce the efforts and costs involved and significantly speed up the development of applications. Using simulated data, we also design industrial measurement and testing systems optimally tailored to the application in question.

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