Vision Components has developed an FPGA-based accelerator for edge preprocessing of image data in embedded vision projects with MIPI camera modules. The hardware accelerator with multiple MIPI-CSI-2 inputs and outputs enables complex image processing and image data analysis. The compact board can merge data from several MIPI cameras. It manages complex algorithms and computing operations thanks to a powerful, freely programmable FPGA.
The accelerator will be available early in 2022, initially with a completely open FPGA for customer programming and demo applications. In a second phase, Vision Components will launch its own FPGA designs for specific applications such as color conversion, 1D barcode identification, epipolar correction, etc. In addition, there are plans to enable the electronics for AI acceleration. Vision developers can integrate the accelerator into their future electronics designs – just as easily and comfortably as a conventional MIPI camera module. The accelerator transfers image preprocessing results to a higher-level CPU via the MIPI channel. This allows users to perform even very complex tasks by means of in-depth preprocessing in the dedicated FPGA module, while they also benefit from the flexible selection of a highly efficient embedded system.
Vision Components at Blechexpo
Vision Components will present its flexible modular system for optical angle measurement in sheet metal bending applications at its Blechexpo booth #5-222, from 26-29 October. The tested and proven laser sensors can be used with any controller. For easy use with DELEM controllers, they are already integrated in the DELEM software and only require activation. Many international press brake manufacturers use these measuring systems to check angular accuracy in metal processing.
Carsten Placke, Product Development & Managing Director at Placke GmbH, says: “We integrate VC nano3D-Z laser triangulation systems into our press brakes to enable real-time control of the immersion depth during the bending process. The systems are reliable, robust and do not require an external computer. They are already integrated in DELEM controllers and can thus be installed and used quickly and easily.”
The compact VC nano3D-Z laser scanners calculate the angle onboard, without an external PC. They transmit the data to the machine control and thus allow for real-time contact pressure adjustment. Vision Components supplies the triangulation systems either as turnkey versions or with customer-specific housings and interfaces or as electronics kits for individual designs. In any case, machine builders and OEM manufacturers receive proven, industrial-grade components with assured long-term availability. Due to the optimal functional interaction of all components – camera module with optics, laser module, and electronics including programmed a FPGA module for 3D calculation – OEM customers significantly reduce their development time and costs as well as any design risks.
Vision Components was the manufacturer who launched the world’s first smart camera for industrial series applications in 1996. The company celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
