In most of today’s production, manual inspection (inspection performed by operators) is still an indispensable part of the production process, even when other production steps are automated to a high extent. It is remarkable what a human mind can do in assessing the product surface quality. How can you add the intelligence of an operator’s assessment to the automated inspection process?
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.
3. Image processing
Multiple software packages are used in this step, which processes the images from 3 cameras. We developed a special solution to show the results of all the inspection steps in 1 overview screen: using a software shell that makes it possible to show the results from the hardware and software systems combined into one, intuitive graphical user interface (GUI).
4. Deep learning
After the inspection, the machine needs to be able to use the results for a subsequent inspection of the same or a different product variant. That is why our system uses deep learning. By using algorithms that search for deviations in the images and comparing these with images of products with normal variations and products with known damages, the system can learn itself to recognize more and more defects.
"Image processing and assessment"
IMS developed and built this stand-alone machine, which is integrated into a fully automated and unmanned production line also delivered and installed by IMS.
This production line can handle over 1500 product variants.
Automating the quality inspection of this delicate product resulted in the following benefits for our customer:
• Assurance of best possible product quality
• Consistent high level of inspection
• Consistent and fully automated repeatable process
"Handles over 1500 product variants"
Sales Manager
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