Microscan, the inventor of Data Matrix™ symbology
and Code 128, is a world leader in providing machine vision
systems, bar code, and advanced two-dimensional symbology
readers for manufacturing and distribution environments. Microscan
combines advanced machine vision and automatic
identification technology to enable manufacturers to automatically
identify, track, and assure quality throughout the manufacturing
process. The net result for customers is improved throughput,
better quality, and enhanced profitability.
Visionscape Software
Broad Collection of High-level Vision Tools
A broad collection of high-level vision tools already proven in thousands of machine
vision applications and many new capabilities enabled by the performance of the latest
generation of Microscan hardware are available. These tools allow the same system to be used
in a wide variety of applications such as inspection, dimensional gauging, guidance,
and identification. Examples of such tools include flaw detection tools for surface quality
inspection, intelligent optical character verification (OCV) tools for mark inspection and
label verification, dimensional gauging tools for non-contact metrology, robust Data Matrix
and bar code reading tools, neural network-based trainable optical character recognition (OCR), etc
Optimized Low-level Image Processing/Analysis Libraries
Visionscape Software has a strong foundation of low-level vision processing tools extensively
optimized for accuracy, robustness, and speed.
- Image preprocessing (image decimation, image resampling and flipping, image arithmetic, high- and low-pass filtering, mathematical morphology, etc.)
- Image analysis (area counting, gray scale histogram analysis, connectivity analysis, edge detection, projection, template matching, etc.)
All tools are accessible from a top-level GUI for use by non-programmers as well as software libraries for developers.
Built-in Set-up/Run-time Graphical User Interface
Such graphical user interfaces allow:
- Application engineers and system integrators without any programming skills to quickly
develop and deploy complex vision applications in a point-and-click fashion by dropping
appropriate tools into a vision program organized as a sequence of steps
- Installers and factory floor operators to select, set-up, and try-out preprogrammed
applications and perform run-time monitoring/control of such applications
The run-time interface enables downloading different applications onto the board, starting
and stopping them, communicating results to the host PC, and collecting, displaying, and
uploading failed images or providing other diagnostics to the user.
ActiveXTM Component Software Architecture
Under the Visionscape architecture, ActiveX Controls encapsulate the core vision system
functionality and user interface required to develop and deploy vision applications.
Examples include the Job and Program Managers used for creating and editing a vision
application, the Set-up Manager for training and testing an application, and the Runtime
Manager for downloading, starting, stopping and operator monitoring an application
Users of the Visionscape software environment obtain programming access to these ActiveX
components to develop custom systems by dropping the appropriate components into a Visual
Basic or C++ application.
Microscan VS-1
The VS-1 Visionscape Smart Camera combines a compact form factor with the broad applicability,
versatility and proven performance of VisionscapeŽ software. Designed for use in a wide range
of applications, the VS-1 provides a cost-effective, easily deployed solution for manufacturers
to monitor quality, control processes, or identify and trace parts on production lines.
Flexible Configuration: The vision smart camera features C-mount optics and separate lighting,
with built-in digital I/O, serial communications, and Ethernet networking. All processing is
done on-board using a high performance, embedded CPU.
Visionscape and Intellifind: Integrated Visionscape software offers powerful processing
for image transformation and analysis, including high-level tools for character verification (OCR and OCV),
and reading and verifying a wide range of barcodes. The optional Intellifind tool provides robust object
finding and pattern recognition.
Rugged Design: With a cast alloy IP67 en-closure and M12 connectors, the VS-1 Visionscape smart
camera is an ideal choice for the toughest industrial applications.
Microscan GigE Camera System
From an economical single vision smart camera system to a sophisticated eight camera application,
Microscan's Visionscape GigE Solution contains all necessary components for a complete, successful
machine vision implementation. PC-based Gigabit Ethernet systems leverage standard network components
such as cabling, switches and interface cards. Visionscape GigE supports a complete set of Microscan
machine vision GigE cameras which, in combination with Visionscape software, allows for rapid
deployment of any scale of machine vision solution.
Gigabit Ethernet (GigE): Gigabit Ethernet allows for high speed data transfers at one gigabit per second.
With the Visionscape GigE solution, this system can be easily deployed using standard low-cost network
components, long cable lengths and no frame grabber boards.
Flexible Configuration: The Visionscape GigE camera features C-mount optics, built-in strobe and
trigger connections and optional Power over Ethernet (PoE). A wide variety of sensor resolutions are
available, ranging from VGA to QSXGA (5 MP), with CMOS, CCD and color options.
Compact and Lightweight: The Visionscape GigE camera weighs just 4 oz. and its small form factor allows for
flexible positioning in tight spaces or mounting in robotic applications.
User Interfaces: Visionscape FrontRunner engineering user interface enables quick and easy creation
of complex vision applications. The AppRunner runtime interface provides complete system status, application
monitoring and results.
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here to learn more about Microscan.
