Machine vision in the forging industry
Artificial Intelligence is an ever more heavily researched field. Experts are busy developing and perfecting its myriad applications: Natural Language Processing, chatbots and virtual assistants, machine learning, biometrics, automation of robotic processes… Dabbling in this field sets you afloat in a virtual sea of possibilities.
One of AI’s most widespread applications today is machine vision.
What is machine vision?
Machine vision is the viewing of images and data through a combination of hardware and software. Due to recent advances, it is now possible to obtain high-precision images that are mechanically and thermally stable.
These systems are made up of a series of digital sensors inserted into cameras that provide images and data, all of which is then processed and analyzed for different purposes.
How does machine vision work?
Computer vision is a combination of hardware and software
On one hand, we need to give machines the capacity for “vision.” To this end, industrial cameras made up of digital sensors are installed that can provide the needed images and data.
On the other hand, machines need to understand the images. In this area, neural networks play an important role. The labeling of the data indicates the correct “answer,” so the neural network is able to know whether something is right or wrong. One could say that the network learns based on pattern recognition. You don’t need to program attributes for the system to recognize them, you only need to load tagged images for the neural network to do this by itself.
Machine vision applications
Although it may sound a bit distant and alien, machine vision is actually quite integrated into our daily lives:
- Self-driving cars. Self-driving cars perceive the environment using integrated cameras.
- Facial recognition. Algorithms allow the recognition of facial features in images. This technology is used in applications such as Snapchat or Instagram to apply filters for example, or to unlock smartphones
- Mixed and augmented reality. These technologies allow us to embed virtual images in the real world, for example, when we want to know if a piece of furniture would look good in a room.
- In medicine. One of the most important advances is in medicine. Here, machine vision can detect problems that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Machine vision in the forging industry
The implementation of machine vision systems in industry has already given rise to many applications, such as barcode reading, character recognition, object detection…
In the case of the forging industry, machine vision allows for exacting quality diagnostics and precise calculations that help optimize the cutting of manufactured parts.
Temperature analysis in forging
Thermographic cameras allow you to analyze the temperatures of the forging dies to find problems during the forging production process and to calculate the resulting wear on the dies.
3D vision in the manufacture of industrial parts
The reconstruction of parts in 3D allows very detailed dimensional and surface analysis.
Detecting quality problems
Using machine vision in the forging industry also allows for optimal selection of forged parts for extremely precise inspection. These inspections would not be possible using traditional methods.
Conducting inspections with machine vision
Computer vision allows for quick and effective inspections of the entire production output without the need for physical contact.
Automating processes
Artificial vision allows you to automate inspection processes that in other circumstances would be conducted by live operators. Inspection times can also be reduced.
We at ULMA Forged Solutions want to offer our clients the best forging solutions. This is why we are constantly seeking to improve our products, processes and services, both internally