Seven Myths About Robotic Vision Systems
Photo courtesy of Canva
If you are considering deploying a robotic vision system somewhere in your plant, you likely have some questions—and maybe even a few misconceptions. After all, when it comes to robotic vision, there is the perception, and there is the reality. There are fictions, and there are truths.
Here are the top myths about robotic vision systems, and the facts you need to know to make an informed decision about implementing robotic vision systems in your manufacturing processes.
Fiction #1: Robotic Vision Systems Are Primitive
Myth: Current vision systems still operate in the same capacity as primitive ones, and are outdated in their software and algorithms. Most of them are useful only for error proofing, such as identifying if a part is present or missing.
Reality: Robotic vision systems are no longer primitive. The computing module in a robotic vision system runs advanced computer vision/AI algorithms that allow it to perform advanced techniques with vision that is equal to or, in many cases, greater than human vision. The capabilities of robotic vision systems are no longer trivial.
Fiction #2: Robotic Vision System Cameras Are Outdated
Myth: Robotic vision systems use obsolete software and algorithms, and require an expert in that field to program the systems.
Reality: Many robotic vision systems today use computer vision/AI algorithms that are a lot more expensive than the robots they guide.
Fiction #3: Retooling a Line Means Replacing Robotic Vision Systems
Myth: When an assembly plant retools a line or builds a new product, they must scrap old components of the line, including the robotic vision systems.
Reality: Some robotic vision systems, like Recognition Robotics’ Robeye, are reusable. They can be disconnected from one robot and attached to another one quickly. You don’t need to replace the vision system every time you make changes to the product being assembled.
Fiction #4: I Must Implement Robotic Vision Systems When I Install My Robots
Myth: Robotic vision systems must be installed when new robots are installed.
Reality: Robotic vision systems can be added at any stage of implementation or operation. You can integrate them with existing robots just as quickly and easily as you can with new robots. But by including the company that makes the vision guidance solution in the early stages of discussion about a project, you reduce project cost, improve overall automation, and identify other areas that can be automated.
Fiction #5: Training Robotic Vision Systems Requires Special Skills
Myth: Robotic vision systems require operators to learn Computer-Aided Design and Drafting or a 3D modeling language.
Reality: Yes, some robotic vision systems do require specialist skills. But other systems use a simple “point-and-click” interface that operators use to perform tasks such as remove unwanted backgrounds and recognize an object. This process takes no special training and is quick to do.
Fiction #6: Robotic Vision Systems Take a Long Time to Implement
Myth: Robotic vision systems require weeks or months to implement, plus require the services of third-party integrators.
Reality: Yes, some vendors require this much time. But Recognition Robotics implementations typically take just a few days.
Fiction #7: All Robotic Vision Systems Are Essentially the Same
Myth: Choosing a robotic vision system is just an exercise in finding the lowest price because all systems offer the same functionality.
Reality: Yes, robotic vision systems perform similar functions. But this is only because the robots they are attached to on today’s assembly lines perform similar functions. The differences you should look for is how easy one system is to set up and operate compared with another system, how easy is it to maintain, and how easy is it to recover from an error or crash scenario. Robotic vision systems from Recognition Robotics, for example, take just a couple of days to deploy and they don’t require significant training to operate.
Where to Begin?
Getting the most from your robotic vision system requires you to separate fact from fiction. It also involves choosing a system made by a company that understands your manufacturing automation challenges. Recognition Robotics produces category-shifting visual recognition technology that defines manufacturing’s new normal. Learn How to Choose the Right Robotic Vision System for Your Needs.
For more information, fill out the form below or call us to request a demo, have your questions answered, or speak to a representative.