IMS challenges and solution
When considering automating the inspection process, roughly two types of inspection can be distinguished: first, the inspection of physical and measurable properties such as length and diameters, and second, the inspection of product quality that goes one step further than measurable properties. One can think of deviations on the product’s surface such as scratches, variations in roughness or shininess. Assessing such properties of the product quality in an automated manner becomes a real challenge. It is difficult, especially if there is a large product variation in terms of shape, material, and color.
Aiming for a fully automated inspection brings the second challenge. Products that are inspected need to be handled, also after the inspection takes place. This means that the automated handling can never damage the product because it simply won’t be detected anymore. Handling of the product is thus a very delicate aspect, which needs to be taken into consideration when automating production.