Machine vision advances and applications

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the progress of machine vision as it applies to automated assembly applications.Design methodology approach - A series of technological developments is described: 3D vision, smart cameras, near infrared (NIR) imaging and LED illumination. Associated with each are relevant assembly applications.Findings - Advances in multi-core processors are facilitating the development of 3D image processing algorithms for robot guidance and product inspection, which in turn enable the automation of skilful and labour-intensive tasks. Machine vision products are becoming more capable, yet simpler to use. NIR imaging is useful for inspecting semiconductors and bottle filling. Advances in LED lighting address difficult inspection tasks at the macro and microscopic levels.Originality value - The paper recognises the emergence of 3D machine vision as a new tool in assembly automation. Updates engineers on other relevant machine vision advances.