The In-Sight 2000 industrial machine-vision sensor provides vision technology in a standalone package that requires no programming or PC. According to its manufacturer, it bridges the gap between single-purpose "smart cameras" and general-purpose machine-vision systems. Also, it employs a spreadsheet for configuring vision applications, eliminating complex programming and reliance on an external PC for setup. This spreadsheet lets users select tools and parameters through a series of simple menus and dialogue boxes. Then cells are linked together to locate objects, measure parts, or perform other functions.
The sensor's handheld control pad permits rapid navigation through the worksheet's cells and menus, enabling the user to quickly configure an application and make on-the-fly changes to the application during run time. A full library of proven vision software tools is included. Also incorporated are an onboard digital-signal-processor chip for high-speed vision processing and a standard VGA output for optional live video display. All of the components for immediate installation on the factory floor are provided.
The development kit, which includes the In-Sight controller with all of the vision software pre-installed, a handheld control pad, and a digital camera, is priced at $4995. In-Sight itself will be available in the second quarter of this year.
Cognex Corp., One Vision Dr., Natick, MA 01760-2059; (877) COGNEX1; fax (508) 650-3333; www.cognex.com/insight.