Smart cameras are stand-alone machine vision systems that incorporate both image capture and analysis in one compact unit. Also known as intelligent cameras, these units are designed for a wide range of industries including biometrics, security, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, automation, textile and more where they assist in such varied tasks as robot navigation, quality control, sorting and code reading.
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Vision systems such as smart cameras can be used solely to generate data or to interpret that information and generate decisions based upon it. Though once considered inferior to larger more conventional PC-based systems, smart cameras are becoming increasingly popular in industrial and commercial settings. Rather than connect to a large computer system, each unit is a completely stand-alone piece of equipment that possesses all of the instruments needed to capture and analyze images. As technology advances camera systems are becoming more and more compact while at the same time expanding capabilities and processing power to match or exceed that of larger more cumbersome machine vision. Increased capacity for analysis and smaller size make these devices the preferred choice for applications where integrated visual interpretation is needed, but space is at a premium. The most common applications for these relatively inexpensive image processors are security and machine or robotic vision though other uses abound.
While the basic model is similar, smart cameras vary widely depending on use. Most, however, posses the same basic features. An image sensor or capture device, integrated processor and communication interface are essential to every system. Additional feature such as increased memory, lens holders, illumination devices and more may be incorporated as well depending on the specific needs of a given application. In operation the image sensor first captures one or more images that are immediately uploaded to the embedded processor. Vision software is pre-programmed with the mathematical algorithms needed to analyze the content of the image and convert this data into a readable output. In some applications the recording of this data is the end result, while in others it can be used to direct the actions of complex machinery or robotics. Existing functionality can be connected in sequence to carry out a flow of operations as deemed appropriate by the system based on pre-set criteria embedded in the processor. Advanced devices provide several options and may have adjustable programming allowing the use of a single smart camera for multiple applications. The programmability of smart cameras sets them apart from vision sensors which function in similar fashion but are more limited in the ability to direct action based on analysis.
