By Jordi Rebull (ERNI Spain)
The integration of artificial intelligence with computer vision is revolutionising the manufacturing sector and increasing the flexibility and efficiency of industrial operations. Traditionally, computer vision has been used for simple tasks such as product quality control. However, the addition of artificial intelligence expands these capabilities, making manufacturing systems more adaptable and cost-effective.
The marriage of artificial intelligence and computer vision stands as a transformative force in the manufacturing sector, a union that not only amplifies traditional computer vision capabilities but also reshapes processes, injecting flexibility and efficiency into industrial operations. From traditional pixel-based contrast and shape detection, computer vision has evolved into a deeper understanding of images, embracing the intricate nuances of human faces and complex object compositions.
Computer vision impacting the manufacturing industry
In manufacturing, computer vision has typically been applied to product quality control. While detecting faulty units in a batch of defect-free products has been a straightforward task for traditional computer vision, challenges arise when faced with diverse defects or the introduction of new product types. This is where the marriage with AI comes into play, vastly extending the realm of possibilities.
AI enables the improvement of old, rigid production systems, making them more flexible and cost-effective. Even in traditional computer vision applications, AI achieves objectives with remarkable simplicity, often requiring just a few labelled examples. According to a study by McKinsey & Company, the introduction of AI-powered quality inspection can elevate productivity by up to 50% and defect detection rates by up to 90%, compared to manual inspection.
In the manufacturing saga, another rising star fuelled by this union is bin-picking applications. This use of robotics and automation involves the autonomous location, grasping and retrieval of objects from bins or containers by robots. With computer vision guiding the location of items and AI discerning positions, even when partially obscured, a robot arm can determine the optimal approach for efficient handling. Robotics giants like ABB, Kuka and Universal Robots are committed to advancing bin-picking technology, ensuring its continuous evolution in the years to come.
In essence, the marriage of artificial intelligence and computer vision is not merely a merger of technologies; it is a profound partnership that is reshaping the manufacturing landscape. This union epitomises flexibility, adaptability and efficiency, ensuring that as AI continues to advance, we can expect more groundbreaking applications that redefine our interaction with technology and the world around us.
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