Factory automation

The family of CMOS area and line scan sensors from ams features high frame rates and global shutter capability for use in machine vision applications.

 

The ams CMOS sensors produce images of the same high quality as CCD image sensors, while offering all the other advantages of CMOS image sensors: low power, integration of an on-chip ADC, high data rate, digital interfaces and on-chip control of the sensor’s operation. 

 

The ams image sensors’ 8T global shutter pixel has a very high shutter efficiency (low sensitivity to parasitic light) and offers operating modes optimized for high dynamic range. This means that the sensors are very well suited to applications which control of the lighting conditions is limited, such as in outdoor environments.

Logistics

Equipment for barcode and 2D code reading normally supports one of two applications: Automated Data Capture (ADC) or Automated Inspection (AI). Handheld ADC scanners used in retail, point-of-sale terminals, courier pick-up and warehousing are based on lasers, linear image sensors or array imagers. AI scanners are normally fixed code readers used in industrial settings and in package sorting applications.

 

Today there is a growing trend to replace laser-based and linear array imagers with arrays of image sensors, which offer superior performance and reliability. CMOS image sensors from ams, which feature global shutter capability, may be easily integrated into scanners for either ADC or AI applications.

Volume and Distance Measurement

Solutions from ams enable 3D measurements used for volume and distance measurements. Possible applications are only limited by the creativity of the user.

Volume measurements can be used in AIDC to track the dimensions of packages in a fully automated warehouse. Distance measurements enable robots within an automated warehouse to move without risk. ams provides key components for all 3D technologies as well 1D time-of-flight (ToF) sensor solutions supporting both single- and multi-zone/multi-object detection capabilities.

Motion Analysis

Motion analysis is used in a diverse range of applications – from production-process review, to sports-performance analysis, even enhanced motion picture applications, and even dance and sport games.  It uses the science of motion capture and analysis in either 2D or 3D configuration. In production, motion-analysis software calculates parameters such as distance, velocity, acceleration, and deformation angles as functions of time. This data is then used to optimize or correct a manufacturing process, or enhance sport performance, and even create avatars in films or games.  Key sensor challenges include high-speed motion capture and NIR sensitivity for eye safety during the illumination of scenes.

For commercial application, motion analysis is always required to understand human behavior to achieve optimum business needs, which will help to enhance human life. Typical applications like footprint tracking, heat map analysis, and dwell time analysis are applied with 3D features to increase data accuracy. ams' VCSEL-based flood illuminator is a key component for time-of-flight (ToF) 3D solutions, especially when implementing ultra-wide angles.

ITS (Intelligent Transportation System)

The specifications of ITS equipment typically call for global shutter pixels, high shutter efficiency and High Dynamic Range (HDR). The required resolution per lane typically ranges between 600 and 1200 pixels.

 

CMOS image sensors from ams, including the CMV2000, CMV4000, CMV8000 and CMV12000, satisfy all these requirements and are widely used in ITS applications such as traffic law enforcement, tolling and traffic management.