From Pixels to Action

Deep learning. It’s the most talked-about trend in machine vision — for good reason. Spurred by unprecedented computing performance, deep learning has, in less than a decade, helped transform the manufacturing sector and usher in the intelligent factory. It seems only fitting, then, that we feature our deep learning article on the cover of the inaugural issue of Vision Spectra.

As you’ll learn from MVTec Software’s feature, deep learning has been a boon for quality assurance. By amassing hundreds of thousands of images and then evaluating them with the aid of artificial intelligence, vision systems can achieve higher and more robust recognition rates. Defective products can, in turn, be swiftly removed from the manufacturing cycle; be sure to read Johannes Hiltner’s feature, “Deep Learning Boosts Defect Recognition Rates,”.

In the pages that follow in this first issue, you’ll discover content specifically suited for systems integrators, vision professionals, and end users alike.

“A Closer Look at Resolution Testing,” from Edmund Optics, assesses lens-testing techniques, including reverse projection and modulation transfer function testing. If learning more about integrating machine vision with motion control for robotics is of interest, be sure to see Energid Technologies’ feature.

One hallmark of Vision Spectra is our focus on real-world applications. Contributing Editor Hank Hogan’s “Innovations in Machine Vision Bolster Food Inspection” examines how analytics and image processing performed by neural nets can help distinguish a bruise from a more benign spot on a piece of fruit. Real-world applications are also the inspiration for our “Vision in Action” series, which examines problems as varied as detecting blowholes on cast components to identifying bits of paint on giant paper rolls. Discover how system designers incorporate the right mix of custom lighting, sensors, and standard data interfaces to address varied challenges.

Finally, with each issue, we promise to deliver analysis from the biggest names in the industry. In this issue’s “Focal Point,” AIA’s Alex Shikany discusses mergers and acquisitions and predicts changes in the vision market for the remainder of 2019. And in “Field of View,” Vision Markets’ Ronald Mueller charts out specific strategies for smaller OEMs in the wake of increased price erosion for vision components.

We hope you enjoy the issue!

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