Vision Guided Robotics
What is Vision Guided Robotics (VGR) and why is it needed?
Vision Guided Robotics (VGR) encompasses all the technologies required to process and handle visual data and objects. This includes all the hardware, software, cameras, lenses and lighting required to capture and process images. The result of this process is reference points for accurately locating and picking an object (X-Y-Z coordinates).
Vision is required for robotics to allow them to more efficiently and quickly function in an unpredictable environment. As we all know, robots work great when everything is consistent. We program them to always pick and place a part in the same location. But what happens when something changes, or the location or orientation of the object varies? The robot cannot pick the object as originally programmed. Guidance is needed when this occurs, and vision helps to accurately locate the object and tell the robot where it is located.
2D solutions provide X, Y and Rz (Angle) coordinates for locating an object. This works when the data is in the same plane, there is no Z or Tilt (Rx, Ry) information required, and the working distance from the camera and the object is constant.
3D solutions extend the capability of vision to accommodate more randomness. These solutions provide the X, Y, Z, Rx, Ry and Rz coordinates to locate objects in different planes. This allows for the object to be tilted, and the working distance from the camera to the object can change.
When do you use 2D versus 3D?
Vision - Choose the Right Fit
2D Vision Systems - Provide X, Y and Rz coordinates for consistent, planar applications where working distance and part orientation are controlled.
3D Vision Systems - Add depth and tilt (Z, Rx, Ry coordinates) for randomized parts, mixed orientation and changeing distances, which is ideal for advanced pick-and-place, as well as logistics applications.
The right answer is always, it depends on the application. Contact a sales representative to help find the right vision solution for you.
Featured Soluions
MotoSight 2D
Featuring ultra-compact Cognex In-Sight 8000 series cameras, MotoSight 2D is a powerful high-speed solution that easily adds vision capability to a range of robotic tasks. Ideally suited for general robot guidance, error proofing, part identification, part inspection and high-speed picking, this easy-to-integrate hardware/software solution provides robot calibration routines and a proven tool set to help users overcome challenging applications.
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