Implement computer vision – development, integration & rollout
After a successful feasibility study (Proof of Concept, PoC), implementation follows: turning a validated approach into a robust, integrated, and maintainable solution for production. This page describes the typical process – including deliverables, tests, and integration points.
At a glance: typical deliverables
- Technical solution concept (architecture, data flows, interfaces, operating model)
- Imaging concept (camera/lens/lighting, triggers, mounting, protective measures)
- Implementation (algorithms/AI, parametrization, UI/operator concept if needed)
- Integration (e.g., OPC UA, REST, database, files/FTP – depending on your system landscape)
- Test and validation evidence (system/performance/stability tests)
- Documentation & handover (operations, maintenance, training, support process)
Project start: Contact us!
Ideally with PoC results, target metrics, sample images, and/or sample data.
1) Detailed project planning
- Detailed specification: clarify requirements (resolution, speed, accuracy, edge cases, acceptance criteria).
- Roadmap & effort: milestones (prototype → pilot → rollout), hardware/software needs, budget and timeline.
- Risks & mitigations: data variability, environmental conditions, integration risks, maintainability.
2) Imaging setup: camera, optics, lighting
Many computer vision projects don’t fail because of the algorithm, but because of the setup. That’s why we stabilize the imaging setup early and close to production conditions:
- Final selection of camera, optics, and lighting (incl. filters/polarization for reflections).
- Trigger & synchronization with the machine (e.g., cycle timing, encoder signal, external triggers).
- Mechanical integration & protection: mounting, vibration decoupling, protection from dust/moisture, maintenance access.
3) Development: algorithms, AI, and calibration
- Implementation of methods validated in the PoC (classic computer vision and/or AI), including parametrization.
- Calibration for precise results (e.g., for measurement, tolerance checks, 2D/3D).
- Robustness: handling variation (lighting, position, material, contamination) and defined edge cases.
- Performance optimization: parallelization, GPU usage, batch/streaming – depending on cycle time and hardware.
4) Integration and interfaces
The solution is integrated into your system landscape – typically across machine and IT interfaces:
- Machine communication: OPC UA, MQTT, PROFINET, or PROFIBUS for states, triggers, and measurement results.
- IT integration: REST APIs for services, workflows, or web UIs.
- Data storage: storing image and measurement data (files, database, archiving/retention, backups).
- Traceability: audit log, versioning (models/parameters), reproducibility of results.
5) Testing & validation
- System tests: end-to-end tests incl. sensors, triggers, processing, outputs.
- Performance tests: cycle time, throughput, latency, resource usage (CPU/GPU/RAM/IO).
- Stability tests: long-run tests under sustained load; behavior on failures/restarts.
- Acceptance: validation against defined acceptance criteria and target metrics.
6) Commissioning, rollout & operations
- Pilot phase: production-like trial, fine-tuning of parameters and processes.
- Rollout: move to regular operations, potentially scaling to multiple stations/cameras.
- Monitoring: KPIs, error rates, drift/quality changes, system status.
- Maintenance & support: maintenance plan, updates, training, and support process.
FAQ: implementing computer vision
How long does implementation take after the PoC?
That depends heavily on the setup, integration effort, and acceptance criteria. A typical approach includes iterative prototyping, a pilot phase, and then rollout.
Which interfaces do you support?
PROFIBUS, PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT (machine side) and REST (IT). Data storage can be files, a database, or a cloud/server setup depending on requirements.
How do you ensure maintainability?
Through versioning (models/parameters), reproducible builds, monitoring, clear acceptance criteria, and operating/maintenance documentation.