Nikon Robot Vision Systems Outperform Humans Eyes

By Bhalchandra Chorghade, Editor, CNCTimes.com

At the CES expo, Nikon Corporation has exhibited various technologies and products under the theme of ‘Making a better world with trust and creativity’. Products included digital manufacturing solutions bringing innovations to the manufacturing field. Nikon stated aim is to become a key technology solutions company in a global society where humans and machines co-create seamlessly by 2030.

Nikon showcased its Robot Vision systems that can achieve even greater visual acuity than the human eye, enabling robots to identify ultra-small parts and flexibly process them at high speed. Mounted on the end of a robot’s arm, the vision system point the way to a future in which robots will be able to carry out complicated tasks that can currently only be performed by humans.

The marriage of robotics and vision brings forth a paradigm shift in manufacturing. Nikon’s robot vision can make robot motion extremely fast, precise and flexible. By leveraging the optical and precision technologies, cultivated over the years, Nikon are contributing to the evolution of robotics comments the company.

Robotics technology is essential in resolving a variety of increasingly difficult challenges such as manufacturing automation and labor shortages. However, limitations in vision have meant conventional robotics have been unable to demonstrate their full capabilities. With this in mind, Nikon combines laser, x-ray and optical measurement technology to create a kinetic vision system far superior to the human eye. Beyond the conventional robot hand’s ability only to operate as instructed, robots with Nikon’s robot vision can respond to unexpected events in such a flexible manner that they appear to be alive.

This superior vision will boost productivity and elevate manufacturing to a whole new level. Nikon will further evolve robot vision and drive a paradigm shift to keep the industry sustainable further commented the company.

From a recent Wall Street Journal article; “I don’t think there is anything in the world yet that is this agile,” says Kota Mukai, who supports development of robot vision systems in the Business Development Department of Nikon’s Next Generation Project Division. Robot vision systems that can recognize images are not uncommon but those that do so at a rate of up to 500 frames per second, and respond instantly, are rare. The robot vision system boasts higher dynamic and kinetic visual acuity than the human eye, and is packed with Nikon’s expertise in opto-electronic and precision technologies.

“It is capable of instantly recognizing, and accurately processing, ultra-small parts; shiny black metal and resin composite parts; and other objects that were previously difficult to recognize. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including pick-and-place, assembly, welding and soldering at production sites,” says Mr. Mukai.

https://www.nikon.com/ces2022e/robotvision/

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