During our time at Automate, we were able to visit LMI Technologies, a company which specialises in 3D machine vision solutions. While at the booth, we spoke with Michael Fisher,
Application Engineer Team Lead, who gave us a rundown of the products on show.
We were first treated to a demonstration of a multi-sensor system, showing four 3D systems, stitching profiles and generating a point cloud. In the demo, they inspected composite decking material using traditional rules-based tools to perform measurements. Manufacturers can use this system to detect any large defects, with the rules-based tools being available off-the-shelf.
Michael explained which industries benefit most from this technology:
“Our systems can be used for measurement and inspection in a range of industries. We started in wood over 40 years ago, scanning logs to figure out the best way to cut them, and scanning boards to perform dimensional analysis. We then branched out to consumer electronics, automotive medical devices, and food.”
We were then shown several more demonstrations of their 3D acquisition technology, including their confocal sensor, which uses white light broken up into different wavelengths.
LMI showed their needle inspection solutions, allowing the user to measure the diameter of a medical needle to ensure the product has no defects. We also saw their laser line profilers, and their snapshot sensor which uses unstructured light.