Incompatibility clouds vision systems` rosy picture

Incompatibility between proprietary hardware and software from different machine vision suppliers is hampering the development of the market, according to a new study. These incompatibilities make it difficult for users to migrate to new systems, says the market analyst Frost & Sullivan, which suggests that suppliers should adopt common hardware interface and networking standards.

Despite this hindrance, F&S forecasts that the European machine vision market will grow at an annual average of 9.6% from 2004 to 2011, by when it will be worth nearly $1bn. This growth is being fuelled by the increasing automation of inspection processes, and by customers demanding zero-defect products.

Users also want more flexible vision systems that will allow rapid product changeovers, and inspection of several parts, without significant reprogramming.

F&S notes that there have been significant developments in digital camera technology, allowing vision systems to detect a wider range of defects and opening up new applications in sectors such as woodworking, plastics and packaging.

The machine vision system is becoming increasingly competitive, F&S reports, and is experiencing some consolidation - such as Cognex`s recent acquisition of DVT.