Embedded vision is a relatively new type of technology in the vision industry, yet it promises to be as disruptive as any vision technology that’s preceded it. With entirely new functionality, embedded vision cameras open up entirely new possibilities in a wide range of industries.
Embedded vision technology differs greatly from traditional machine vision, and is used in different environments, but what exactly is it and why are end users deploying it?
Embedded Vision Cameras vs Machine Vision Cameras
Board level cameras for embedded vision typically consist of some form of processing architecture, a standard interface, and a sensor or camera module. At the most basic level, embedded vision cameras combine image capture and some degree of image processing capabilities in one device. They lack the housing that’s typical of machine vision systems so that they can be seamlessly integrated into a wide range of devices.
Machine vision cameras are very different. They’re larger, have robust housing to protect internal components from harsh environments, and are always connected to some form of external PC for image processing.
What are Embedded Vision Cameras Used For?
Embedded vision cameras distinguishing feature is their ability to be designed into other products with a separate purpose. For example, the vision sensors in automobiles represent an ideal version of machine vision, where small image sensors help the vehicle navigate with greater degrees of autonomy.
Typically, embedded vision systems feature low power consumption to minimize the impact on overall system design and fast frame rates for outdoor and mobile environments. Industries rapidly adopting embedded vision include:
- Robotics
- Consumer electronics
- Medical
- Semiconductor
- Aerospace
- Security
- Defense
There are many other industries that’re beginning to deploy embedded vision solutions, but the few mentioned above are among the biggest drivers of this new technology.
Embedded vision enables applications that traditional machine vision systems could not. While the technology is still young, it’s making waves in a wide range of industries as more and more uses are being found for it all the time.
To learn more about embedded vision cameras, check out board level cameras from Baumer at Phase 1 Technology.