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.
Repeatable acceptance criteria across shifts /Less rework and fewer misclassified parts /Record and traceability of every decision /Less operator exposure to repetitive tasks /Repeatable acceptance criteria across shifts /Less rework and fewer misclassified parts /Record and traceability of every decision /Less operator exposure to repetitive tasks /Repeatable acceptance criteria across shifts /Less rework and fewer misclassified parts /Record and traceability of every decision /Less operator exposure to repetitive tasks /Repeatable acceptance criteria across shifts /Less rework and fewer misclassified parts /Record and traceability of every decision /Less operator exposure to repetitive tasks /
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.
Criterion
2D vision
3D vision
AI
What it measures
Color, texture, presence and planar position
Height, volume, profile and orientation
Patterns that are hard to describe with rules
Best for
Labels, surfaces, assembly and codes
Stacked parts, welds, volume and wear
Variable defects, textures and sorting
Limit
Does not see height or depth
More calibration and more data
Needs 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.
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.
Assess your process /Design the solution /Assess your process /Design the solution /Assess your process /Design the solution /Assess your process /Design the solution /