ECS on 'The Eyes of Automation' Podcast from Baumer
We had the honor as guests on the first episode of "The Eyes of Automation" podcast. Hosted by Cara Perotti from Baumer, we delved into the powerful world of machine vision and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology — specifically focusing on the critical role of smart cameras.
Here is some of what we talked about:
What is a smart camera and how does this deliver better data to the papermaker?
How can I ‘reverse future-proof’ the investment I have already made in the existing machine vision system?
What cybersecurity concerns can be addressed with virtualized servers?
What is the mill IT boundary and how are these next-generation systems providing significantly higher solution sustainability?
How are existing legacy GigE systems upgraded to smart cameras?
Can a system combine GigE and Internet Protocol (IP) with smart cameras in a single system?
My existing system was built with a 1 GB backbone to the server cabinet. How do I add more resolution without exceeding the bandwidth of the backbone without adding new infrastructure?
What are the challenges and successes we have had to date for real-world AI solutions using cameras for data input and AI models as the engine?
Can the building blocks of one end-to-end AI platform be modified to solve other quality control challenges?
Unraveling the Potential of Smart Cameras
The conversation brought ECS leaders Brian Mock and John Larkin together. Their collective expert perspectives brought light to the increasing standard of smart camera quality and how it drastically stands as the backbone of machine vision.
We highlighted the Baumer smart camera lineage of technologically advanced cameras designed to provide the best in class image quality, exceptional computational power, and practical optimization.
The Transformative Journey with Baumer Cameras
Having worked extensively with these cameras, we detailed how image processing has evolved over the years amidst the significant increase in image quality and computational power. From enabling faster processing of high-quality images to reducing the size, power consumption, and bandwidth usage of cameras — a whole new array of possibilities have opened up.
The success of these cameras lies in embracing mega-trends like edge processing and artificial intelligence. Despite AI being essential for businesses, many companies grapple with implementing it effectively. As ECS's solution to this issue, the Baumer AX series smart camera effortlessly combines the quality of a Baumer camera with an integrated NVIDIA Jetson board, all neatly packed into an IP-rated housing.
Modular Advantages with Improved Sustainability
John Larkin touched on the benefits of being able to upgrade and integrate newer, better equipment without having to redo the entire solution. This approach has allowed for efficient trouble-shooting and a more straightforward means to maintain systems over extended periods.
Also, the cameras’ compatibility with existing equipment contributes to the idea of future-proofing the technology, allowing systems to run for an extended duration with minimal upgrading.
The Vision of Event Capture Systems
The lens shifted to ECS's commitment to delivering high-quality video data to help manufacture better, faster. We emphasized the need for a set standard on cameras, server hardware, and even security measures to protect against risks. ECS’s Smartflex provides superior integration, leveraging its technological synergy and offloading processing tasks away from the host.
Final Thoughts
The impact of AI and machine vision technologies is just beginning. These are tools that help enterprises navigate the flux of operational metamorphosis. Through continuous learning, failing fast and fixing fast, businesses can harness the potential of AI and smart camera technology.
Stay tuned for our Chalk Talk series coming soon in March.