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Machine vision · Inspection

Automated visual inspection

Automated visual inspection does not start with the camera: it starts with the defect to detect. We define what is accepted, what is rejected and with what evidence, then select lighting, optics, camera and algorithm. The cell integrates with the line, PLC or MES and is validated with real parts, including good and bad ones.

Defect, presence, dimension and assembly inspection with a repeatable, measurable criterion.

Automated visual inspection
Automated visual inspection
  • Repeatable acceptance criteria across shifts
  • Less rework and fewer misclassified parts
  • Record and traceability of every decision
  • Less operator exposure to repetitive tasks

What it solves

Concrete applications

  • Surface defects: scratches, stains, porosity, burrs
  • Presence, absence and component orientation
  • Dimensions, distances and assembly verification
  • Sorting by color, shape or finish
  • Code reading and part association
  • Inspection after welding, machining or polishing

Comparison

2D, 3D or AI: what fits each defect

The technology is chosen for the defect, not the trend. A simple rule can be more robust than a neural network; 3D imaging can solve what 2D cannot see.

Criterion2D vision3D visionAI
What it measuresColor, texture, presence and planar positionHeight, volume, profile and orientationPatterns that are hard to describe with rules
Best forLabels, surfaces, assembly and codesStacked parts, welds, volume and wearVariable defects, textures and sorting
LimitDoes not see height or depthMore calibration and more dataNeeds labeled samples and validation

In detail

What defines the cell

Lighting, optics and camera

Lighting solves more defects than the camera. We define geometry, angle, diffusion and filter before choosing resolution and lens.

  • Field of view and minimum resolution per defect.
  • Diffuse, grazing, coaxial or backlight illumination.
  • Lens, working distance and distortion.
  • Protection, cleaning and maintenance.

Acceptance criteria

The system must distinguish a good part from a bad one with a criterion the customer can explain and audit. We measure false positives and false negatives before accepting the cell.

  • Sample of good, bad and borderline parts.
  • Minimum detectable defect and repeatability.
  • False-positive and false-negative rate.
  • Image and decision record for traceability.

Line integration

The camera does not live alone: it receives a signal, inspects, decides and returns a result. Integration defines cycle time and system stability.

  • Presence sensor, encoder or PLC trigger.
  • Rejection, marking or part sorting.
  • PLC, MES or database interface.
  • Maintenance and adjustment for reference changes.

Cost and payback

Cost includes camera, optics, lighting, mounting, software, integration, validation and maintenance. Payback comes from rework, scrap, claims and inspection hours.

  • Current rework and scrap cost.
  • Manual inspection hours and turnover.
  • Cost of a claim or a defective part at the customer.
  • Total investment and calculation assumptions.

To assess

What we need to assess your inspection

Send my case
  1. 01Part, material and finish.
  2. 02Photos or video of the good and bad condition.
  3. 03Current acceptance criteria and tolerances.
  4. 04Volume, cycle and number of references.
  5. 05How the part arrives and where it is inspected.
  6. 06Environment, lighting and available space.

Industries

Where it is used

  • Automotive and parts
  • Food and beverage
  • Pharma and cosmetics
  • Electronics
  • Metalworking
  • Packaging

Related guides

Keep assessing

Frequently asked questions

Automated visual inspection

When is a rule better and when is AI better?

A rule is preferable when the defect can be described with measurements, color or presence. AI is justified when the defect varies and cannot be expressed with simple thresholds. Many cells combine both.

What camera resolution do I need?

It is calculated from the field of view and the minimum defect: the defect must cover several pixels. Higher resolution does not compensate for poor lighting or optics.

Can a moving part be inspected?

Yes, with a trigger, encoder and compatible exposure times. Line speed and processing time define whether inspection is in-line or at a buffer station.

How is the system validated?

With a set of good, bad and borderline parts, and a measurement of false positives and false negatives. Validation is documented before acceptance.

Does it integrate with PLC or MES?

Yes. Trigger, result, reject, recipe and record signals are defined. The interface is agreed with the plant automation owner.

What about maintenance and cleaning?

Optics, lighting and mounting are designed for the environment. Cleaning, frequency, spare parts and periodic verification criteria are defined.

Can we start with a trial?

Yes. A trial with real parts is the recommended step to confirm lighting, resolution, algorithm and criteria before quoting the cell.

Do you work in Argentina and neighboring countries?

Yes. Assessment and integration are coordinated from Córdoba for Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Next step · Gist Point

Have a part to assess?

Send photos or a video and we will define whether a vision trial, an assessment or a complete cell makes sense.