OPC UA: IDS makes AI-based image processing available to factory automation
IDS NXT cameras can now communicate with machines and controls in a standardized language
The integration of the industry protocol OPC UA is another milestone for the IDS NXT platform. IDS NXT cameras can now communicate with machines and controllers in the same language to instantly exchange tasks and results. This key technology allows intelligent cameras to be integrated directly into factory automation without the need for additional hardware or programming. This is a first in the market.
The protocol, which is not tied to any particular manufacturer or industry, is the ideal interface for embedded vision systems such as IDS NXT, as it enables rapid integration into industrial plants and process control systems. OPC UA provides automation engineers with an essential machine vision component according to the OPC Machine Vision Companion Specification. They do not need any previous knowledge of image processing and machine learning in order to integrate an AI-capable image processing solution into "Industry 4.0" systems.
Standardized communication via OPC UA also creates the prerequisite for the "plug and produce" of new devices. The set-up time of machine vision systems can thus be reduced to a minimum.
For a detailed description of the advantages of combining OPC UA and IDS NXT, the role of "recipes" in this process and how we think usability even further, please refer to our technical article "Inference by recipe".