3D Inspection in a Camera Snapshot

Configuring machine vision inspections in 3D is now possible in a “snapshot”, thanks to the combination of SICK’s powerful and compact Visionary-T Mini AP camera with the new easy-to-use SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini AP uses best-in-class time-of-flight snapshot technology to set new standards of data accuracy for detailed environmental perception at rapid production speeds. It captures both the 3D depth and 2D intensity values of every pixel at an exceptional (512 × 424 px) resolution in a single shot of light, at up to 30 3D frames per second.

Common 3D Vision Tasks

Common 3D inspection tasks in warehousing and logistics such as completeness, fill level monitoring, or robot palletising, can be set up rapidly and cost-effectively to run onboard the Visionary-T Mini AP camera using the SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp. Users simply select the 3D machine vision tools they need via an easy graphic user interface and the Visionary-T Mini AP camera is soon delivering reliable inspection results via I/O to the machine controller or over TCP/IP.

No Programming Skills

“Thanks to SICK’s Nova foundation software, you don’t need programming skills to run a ready-made sensorApp directly onboard our smart devices,” explains Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Machine Vision and Measurement. “With the SICK Nova Presence Inspection toolset, you can easily configure a 3D machine vision solution that exactly matches your application.

“Just select the tools you need from the App to run directly on board the Visionary-T Mini AP. The graphical user interface is simple to use, from where you also can also access other industry-standard vision tools, or install one of the ready-made, application-specific solutions should you need them.”

As a programmable device, the SICK Visionary-T Mini AP is easy to configure and commission. A multicam mode is available to process image data from more than one Visionary-T Mini. With rapid 3D data transmission, the Visionary-T Mini is suitable for integration into most industrial applications.

3D Vision Toolset

With a toolset of commonly used 3D vision tools, the SICK Nova Presence Inspection App easily masters tasks like emptiness checks in bins, totes and crates, presence detection of objects in 3D scenes, as well as simple measurements and quality tolerance checks. “3D quality checks for completeness often need several, more advanced, machine vision software tools and programming skillset to identify the quality inspection issue, but with SICK Nova Presence Inspection, they are easy to configure,” Hofmann adds. “The camera outputs results, such as confirming all parts are present and at the right locations, or verifying a set of measurements.”

Using the SICK Nova Presence Inspection on Visionary T Mini, the position, height and volume of any package can be determined, for example for a robot to pick it and place it in a container or pallet. The Visionary-T mini-camera’s 3D snapshot technology can also be used for continuous 3D Fill Level monitoring for example to determine if totes are empty, filled, full or overfull, or it can measure the presence of parts in a bin, for example.

With a low-weight and no moving parts, the Visionary-T Mini’s IP65/67 housing measures just 80 mm x 70 mm x 77 mm, ideal for installation in compact robotics and automation solutions. It performs reliably despite the shocks and vibrations of applications such as robot palletising and depalletising. The automatic High Dynamic Range of the Visionary-T Mini ensures even widely-varying contrasts and lighting conditions across a scene are captured in each frame without complex set up, or expert knowledge of time-of-flight settings. The high-density 512 x 424 px resolution is complemented by a 70° x 60° field of view.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini CX provides an alternative option for customers wishing to use the power of the Visionary-T Mini’s snapshot technology to stream 3D data for their own software applications.

3D Inspection in a Camera Snapshot

Configuring machine vision inspections in 3D is now possible in a “snapshot”, thanks to the combination of SICK’s powerful and compact Visionary-T Mini AP camera with the new easy-to-use SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini AP uses best-in-class time-of-flight snapshot technology to set new standards of data accuracy for detailed environmental perception at rapid production speeds. It captures both the 3D depth and 2D intensity values of every pixel at an exceptional (512 × 424 px) resolution in a single shot of light, at up to 30 3D frames per second.

Common 3D Vision Tasks

Common 3D inspection tasks in warehousing and logistics such as completeness, fill level monitoring, or robot palletising, can be set up rapidly and cost-effectively to run onboard the Visionary-T Mini AP camera using the SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp. Users simply select the 3D machine vision tools they need via an easy graphic user interface and the Visionary-T Mini AP camera is soon delivering reliable inspection results via I/O to the machine controller or over TCP/IP.

No Programming Skills

“Thanks to SICK’s Nova foundation software, you don’t need programming skills to run a ready-made sensorApp directly onboard our smart devices,” explains Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Machine Vision and Measurement. “With the SICK Nova Presence Inspection toolset, you can easily configure a 3D machine vision solution that exactly matches your application.

“Just select the tools you need from the App to run directly on board the Visionary-T Mini AP. The graphical user interface is simple to use, from where you also can also access other industry-standard vision tools, or install one of the ready-made, application-specific solutions should you need them.”

As a programmable device, the SICK Visionary-T Mini AP is easy to configure and commission. A multicam mode is available to process image data from more than one Visionary-T Mini. With rapid 3D data transmission, the Visionary-T Mini is suitable for integration into most industrial applications.

3D Vision Toolset

With a toolset of commonly used 3D vision tools, the SICK Nova Presence Inspection App easily masters tasks like emptiness checks in bins, totes and crates, presence detection of objects in 3D scenes, as well as simple measurements and quality tolerance checks. “3D quality checks for completeness often need several, more advanced, machine vision software tools and programming skillset to identify the quality inspection issue, but with SICK Nova Presence Inspection, they are easy to configure,” Hofmann adds. “The camera outputs results, such as confirming all parts are present and at the right locations, or verifying a set of measurements.”

Using the SICK Nova Presence Inspection on Visionary T Mini, the position, height and volume of any package can be determined, for example for a robot to pick it and place it in a container or pallet. The Visionary-T mini-camera’s 3D snapshot technology can also be used for continuous 3D Fill Level monitoring for example to determine if totes are empty, filled, full or overfull, or it can measure the presence of parts in a bin, for example.

With a low-weight and no moving parts, the Visionary-T Mini’s IP65/67 housing measures just 80 mm x 70 mm x 77 mm, ideal for installation in compact robotics and automation solutions. It performs reliably despite the shocks and vibrations of applications such as robot palletising and depalletising. The automatic High Dynamic Range of the Visionary-T Mini ensures even widely-varying contrasts and lighting conditions across a scene are captured in each frame without complex set up, or expert knowledge of time-of-flight settings. The high-density 512 x 424 px resolution is complemented by a 70° x 60° field of view.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini CX provides an alternative option for customers wishing to use the power of the Visionary-T Mini’s snapshot technology to stream 3D data for their own software applications.

Cutting-Edge Parcel Sortation Project

Alstef Group, supplier of automated material handling solutions, and Falcon Autotech, a global warehouse automation solution provider, have announced the successful launch of a state-of-the-art parcel sortation system set to elevate the operational prowess of Aramex Sydney.

The cornerstone of this project is the state-of-the-art cross belt sorter manufactured and engineered by Falcon to process up to 16,000 parcels per hour. This system is designed to handle a wide variety of parcel sizes and shapes, ensuring Aramex Sydney’s distribution network is both swift and accurate, thereby enhancing the end customer experience.

Alstef Group played a vital role in this project by providing comprehensive support during installation. They were responsible for managing all installation labour, as well as the design and supply of 1000m2 of mezzanine platforms to mount the conveyors. Their expertise in material handling solutions and their commitment to excellence were critical in bringing this project to fruition.

The successful collaboration between Alstef Group and Falcon exemplifies the power of teamwork and the commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions in the parcel industry. By combining their respective strengths and expertise, they have delivered a solution that will benefit Aramex Sydney and their customers for years.

Stan Sroka, Alstef group Sales Director of Post, Parcel and Retail Logistics, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “We are delighted to have been a part of this milestone project for Aramex Sydney. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure that the installation was completed seamlessly, and we are confident that this new installation will significantly enhance Aramex Sydney’s parcel sorting capabilities.”

Sandeep Bansal, Chief Business Officer – Falcon Autotech added, “The collaboration between Falcon and Alstef Group demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation and excellence. The cross-belt sorter we’ve delivered for Aramex Sydney represents the Falcon’s cutting-edge parcel sorting technology, and we are excited to see its positive impact on Aramex operations.”

Aramex Sydney is equally enthusiastic about the benefits this project brings to their business. “We are thrilled with the results of this project,” said Ruby Wolff, Chief Operating Officer of Aramex Australia. “The new cross belt sorter will not only streamline our parcel sorting process but also improve the speed and accuracy of deliveries to our valued customers.”

The project stands as a beacon of innovation, marking a milestone in the journey of Alstef Group, Falcon Autotech, and Aramex Sydney, and underscoring the importance of embracing futuristic automation solutions to stay ahead in the logistics arena. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and technology in improving supply chain efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Peak Season Robotics Fulfilment Efficiency

CIRRO Fulfillment and Hai Robotics, a pioneer and leader in Autonomous Case-Handling Robot (ACR) Systems, partnered in September 2023 to integrate robotics technology into its German fulfilment centre in time for the holiday season.

The advanced fulfilment centre covers an area of 6,500m² with a storage volume of 3,348m³. It features 45 A42L robots for order picking and eight A42T robots for shelving and automated stocking. The picking robots can handle payloads of up to 240kg and operate at a top speed of 1.5 meters per second.

By implementing robotics-driven operations, CIRRO Fulfilment is projected to enhance workforce efficiency by an estimated 30%, with a maximum daily outbound volume up to 21,000 items. The robots can swiftly transport items to skilled workers for picking and packing in one go, ensuring fast and accurate order processing and dispatch. This innovative approach reduces handling time and enhances operational capabilities, resulting in faster delivery and increased customer satisfaction. The overall shopping experience is seamless and expedited.
“Our partnership with Hai Robotics showcases our dedication to being at the forefront of innovation. It improves the customer experience and signifies a significant transformation in efficiency and accuracy, setting a new standard for e-commerce fulfilment operations,” said Hong Li, Head of Sales at CIRRO Fulfillment.

“We are thrilled about our collaboration with CIRRO Fulfillment. The application of our fully integrated solution, blending ACRs and AMRs, represents a milestone in the use of versatile robotics technologies in e-commerce fulfilment operations for the EMEA region,” said Sean Wang, Sales Director at Hai Robotics EMEA.

Hai Robotics, a global pioneer in ACR Systems, delivers intelligent and efficient warehouse automation solutions through robotics and AI. Our 2015 innovation, HaiPick, was the world’s first ACR solution. With over 1,000 global projects serving 30+ countries, we combine international experience with local expertise to offer tailored, top-quality solutions.

Peak Season Robotics Fulfilment Efficiency

CIRRO Fulfillment and Hai Robotics, a pioneer and leader in Autonomous Case-Handling Robot (ACR) Systems, partnered in September 2023 to integrate robotics technology into its German fulfilment centre in time for the holiday season.

The advanced fulfilment centre covers an area of 6,500m² with a storage volume of 3,348m³. It features 45 A42L robots for order picking and eight A42T robots for shelving and automated stocking. The picking robots can handle payloads of up to 240kg and operate at a top speed of 1.5 meters per second.

By implementing robotics-driven operations, CIRRO Fulfilment is projected to enhance workforce efficiency by an estimated 30%, with a maximum daily outbound volume up to 21,000 items. The robots can swiftly transport items to skilled workers for picking and packing in one go, ensuring fast and accurate order processing and dispatch. This innovative approach reduces handling time and enhances operational capabilities, resulting in faster delivery and increased customer satisfaction. The overall shopping experience is seamless and expedited.
“Our partnership with Hai Robotics showcases our dedication to being at the forefront of innovation. It improves the customer experience and signifies a significant transformation in efficiency and accuracy, setting a new standard for e-commerce fulfilment operations,” said Hong Li, Head of Sales at CIRRO Fulfillment.

“We are thrilled about our collaboration with CIRRO Fulfillment. The application of our fully integrated solution, blending ACRs and AMRs, represents a milestone in the use of versatile robotics technologies in e-commerce fulfilment operations for the EMEA region,” said Sean Wang, Sales Director at Hai Robotics EMEA.

Hai Robotics, a global pioneer in ACR Systems, delivers intelligent and efficient warehouse automation solutions through robotics and AI. Our 2015 innovation, HaiPick, was the world’s first ACR solution. With over 1,000 global projects serving 30+ countries, we combine international experience with local expertise to offer tailored, top-quality solutions.

Robotics Automation Company Launches

Autrix, a new robotic automation company, launched this month with the mission of making automation accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK. Formed from leaders in the robotics space and talent from automation companies, Autrix aims to enable SMEs to compete globally through increased efficiency, productivity and innovation.

Autrix provides end-to-end automation services, from initial conversations about automation potential to installation and ongoing optimisation of automated systems. With a strong software focus, Autrix offers strategic guidance to help businesses determine how and where to implement automation to best support their growth.

“SMEs are the backbone of the UK economy, yet many struggle to keep up with larger competitors that have already invested heavily in automation,” said Joe Daft, Managing Director and Founder of Autrix. “We started Autrix to give these smaller players a fighting chance, with automation solutions tailored to their needs and budgets along with the expertise to help them benefit as much as possible.”

The leadership team at Autrix brings decades of experience in delivering solutions within the SME space. By exclusively focusing on SMEs, Autrix can offer customised and cost-effective automation services that allow these companies to achieve quick wins, foster innovation, and gain a competitive edge.

“Automation is key to the future of manufacturing and business in general, but the resources required have put it out of reach for most SMEs until now,” said Ian Shay, Co-Founder of Autrix and Director of L&S Engineers. “With Autrix, SMEs across the UK finally have an automation partner invested in their success”.

With locations strategically located throughout the UK, Autrix is well positioned to serve SMEs nationwide. In Birmingham, Autrix operates a live automated warehouse and service centre where technology partners can demonstrate solutions. The Lincoln office focuses on designing custom automation systems and software to meet specific customer needs. Autrix works with best-of-breed technology partners including Hikrobot, VisionNav and ProGlove to provide SMEs with automated mobile robots (AMRs), robotic arms, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), smart gloves and more.

By bundling technologies from multiple vendors, Autrix can provide SMEs with integrated automation systems from single robotic solutions to large deployments of 50+ AMRs tailored to their needs at a lower cost than purchasing from individual technology providers.

Autrix’s dedication to democratising automation for SMEs through their tailored solutions, strategic guidance, and commitment to success positions itself as a valuable partner for SMEs seeking to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. Autrix is set to empower SMEs with the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to embrace automation and unlock their full potential.

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