Machine vision and artificial intelligence

Machine vision is a rapidly developing branch of artificial intelligence. Simply put, machine vision is the use of machines instead of the human eye for measurement and judgment. The machine vision system uses machine vision products (i.e. image capture devices, divided into CMOS and CCD) to convert the captured target into image signals, transmit them to a dedicated image processing system, obtain the morphological information of the captured target, and convert it into digital signals based on pixel distribution, brightness, color, and other information; The image system performs various operations on these signals to extract the features of the target, and then controls the equipment actions on site based on the discrimination results.

Machine vision is a comprehensive technology, including image processing, mechanical engineering technology, control, Electric light lighting, optical imaging, sensors, analog and digital video technology, computer software and hardware technology (image enhancement and analysis algorithms, image cards, I/O cards, etc.). A typical machine vision application system includes image capture, light source system, image digitization module, digital image processing module, intelligent judgment and decision-making module, and mechanical control execution module. 

The most basic feature of a machine vision system is to improve the flexibility and automation of production. In some hazardous work environments that are not suitable for manual work or situations where artificial vision cannot meet the requirements, machine vision is commonly used to replace artificial vision. At the same time, in large-scale repetitive industrial production processes, using machine vision detection methods can greatly improve production efficiency and automation.

A typical industrial machine vision system includes: light source, lens (Prime lens, zoom lens, telecentric lens, micro lens), camera (including CCD camera and COMS camera), image processing unit (or image capture card), image processing software, monitor, communication/I/O unit, etc.