Whether quality testing, product identification, product sorting or robot navigation – industrial image processing has become a basic part of manufacturing. Machine vision applications imitate the human eye and make it possible for systems to see in 3D. The importance of visualization to modern robotics and automation is made clear at Industrial Automation in Hall 17. Visualization specialists such as MVtec, WMV Robotics, and Atentra are setting up exciting demonstrations at the Application Park Robotics, Automation & Vision , the center for robot manufacturers, system vendors, and industrial image processing.

Blumenbecker is presenting industrial robots for image recognition at the Application Park. This automation company supplies customized robotics solutions to various industries. "We are product-agnostic and supply robotics solutions based on KUKA, FANUC and ABB for many different applications," states Blumenbecker. Sensors and industrial cameras from the supplier measure the dimensions of a product, verify the position of all the components in a subassembly, read barcodes and 2D codes, and recognize and sort product types according to shape, size, and other characteristics. Blumenbecker robots with machine vision systems can palletize, depalletize and carry out other activities.

At the Application Park, Asentics GmbH will be showcasing optical sensors that "close the gap between simple photo sensors and complex, expensive imaging processing systems," explains the company (Stand E42). They can test the quality of products or sort products at high speeds. At Industrial Automation 2017 Asentics is focusing on Industrie 4.0. "We are showcasing two exhibits," says Axel Scharbert, Marketing Manager at Asentics. The company can also be found at the SAP stand, which is displaying an entire workflow environment under Industrie 4.0 conditions in real time. "It'll be a highlight," promises Scharbert.

Across from Asentics, Stemmer Imaging is showcasing itself as "Europe's leading provider of image processing technology." Headquartered in Puchheim near Munich, the company's product range includes industrial and intelligent cameras along with complete image processing systems. Visitors to Stemmer Imaging’s stand (E40) in Hall 17 can see "many new developments" and "new proposals for quality control using imaging."

Machine vision specialist Cognex is returning to Hannover after a hiatus of several years (Halle 17/F39). The industrial imaging and ID systems from this US producer enhance manufacturing processes, shorten cycle time, improve quality, and cut costs. One example is Evolut which integrates robotics systems based on Cognex vision systems using special Cognex software to recognize and identify parts.

Another exhibitor in Hall 17 is Isra Vision , on site in Hannover with a "complete portfolio of robot vision systems from 2D to 6D." "Stereoscopic vision with a camera significantly improves efficiency in manufacturing automation," says the manufacturer. Its MONO3D robot vision system reduces costs "using robust contour-based object recognition," production time, and the use of resources when de-racking or positioning components for assembly. To accurately determine a component’s position and orientation, MONO3D only needs three attributes, such as holes, edges or corners. Behind the company’s "3D robot vision" is proprietary software for intelligent machine vision systems.

Included among exhibitors for measuring and sensor technology, which complements the range of exhibitors in Hall 17, are Faro, GOM and Hexagon Metrology . In 2016, FARO Europe drew attention to itself by receiving third prize at HANNOVER MESSE's ROBOTICS AWARD competition. The solution they presented, FRIM (Factory Robo Imager Mobile), is a collaborative mobile robotics platform for 3D measurements in assembly lines and labs. Without the need for programming and ready for operation in just a few minutes, it enables "measurements just about anywhere in production" according to Faro. The measurement process captures the object and generates 3D data automatically. Faro FRIM is "the first mobile 3D measurement platform with collaborative robots that integrate all components," says the manufacturer. It is possible to operate it without additional devices. At Industrial Automation 2017, Faro will be following up on its 2016 success. In Hall 17, the company will also be presenting "the smallest and lightest laser scanner on the market."

Measurement technology from GOM is based on digital image processing. This company from Braunschweig develops, manufactures, and sells software, sensor technology, automated installations, and full systems for industrial applications in 3D coordinate measuring technology and testing. The system installations improve product quality and development and production processes in various sectors. The new, high-precision fringe projection system ATOS Capsule, for example, is characterized by its “high precision for fine details,” according to the company. It is used for initial sample testing of gears, turbine blades and wheels, and medical parts.

The robust coordinate measuring machines (CMM) from Hexagon Metrology have been developed for use on the factory floor. Automated inspection is possible right at the point of production. Special features and functions such as automatic temperature compensation ensure that performance is not impaired by changes in temperature, vibrations, or dirt. Hexagon is bringing along AICON 3D Systems to the trade show, which it acquired in 2016. This company’s scanners enable high-precision optical imaging of complex 3D structures, such as surface inspections of sheet metal parts and deformation analyses of gear parts.