visionssensor

Visionssensor is a term used to describe compact image-processing devices used in automation to perform visual inspection, measurement, and simple decision making. In practice it is often used interchangeably with vision sensor or smart camera, and may be included under the broader category of machine-vision equipment. These devices integrate a camera, processing hardware, and often illumination and optics into a single unit designed to operate close to the production line without a separate PC.

A visionssensor typically provides built-in tools for feature detection such as edge finding, blob analysis, template matching, color inspection, and code reading, along with presence checks. Most models offer configurable lighting, region-of-interest selection, exposure control, and triggering options. Programming interfaces range from graphical wizards to script-based rules, and the device can be operated via a built-in interface or connected to a PLC or industrial network.

In operation, the sensor captures an image when triggered, analyzes it against predefined criteria, and emits a digital signal or message indicating pass/fail, presence, count, or position. Outputs are commonly digital IO, with optional Ethernet or fieldbus communication for integration with automation systems.

Applications include quality inspection, part orientation for pick-and-place, barcode or OCR reading, presence checks, and sorting in manufacturing, packaging, electronics, food and beverage, and logistics. Compared with larger machine-vision systems, visionsensors are typically smaller, easier to deploy, and less flexible, but provide fast, local decision making.

Related terms include machine vision, smart cameras, and optical inspection. The term visionssensor may be used as a synonym for vision sensor in some documentation.