Sentinel Vision, in collaboration with Zebra Technologies and Clearview, has developed a machine vision solution that substantially improves the inspection process in plastic injection molding. Thanks to the 3D LaserScan system and Zebra’s AltiZ™ series sensors, manufacturers can now detect defects more accurately and without stopping their production lines.
The underlying problem
Injection molded parts are key in sectors such as automotive, healthcare or electronics, but traditional manual or 2D camera inspection has been insufficient when faced with translucent materials, complex geometries or low-contrast finishes. As a result, traditional traditional inspection methods fail, resulting in defective parts reaching the customer, rework or material waste, higher costs and warranty claims.
How does the machine vision solution work?
Faced with this challenge, Sentinel has implemented a system that combines state-of-the-art hardware and intelligent software:
- Zebra AltiZ™ sensors: 3D laser scanners that project a line of laser light onto the part and measure with millimeter precision its profile in three dimensions. This allows you to “see” the actual shape of the part, not just its color or texture, overcoming the problems of low contrast and complex shapes. This would be the hardware part
- Sentinel’s VisionCore platform: Software that analyzes the data captured by the sensors by combining 2D and 3D image analysis in real time. This would be the software part.
Tangible results from day one
One of the biggest attractions of the system is its rapid implementation, which can be done in less than an hour. According to data shared by Sentinel, return on investment is typically achieved in less than six months.
This alliance is redefining the possibilities of quality control in plastics manufacturing.
Andrés Carrillo Serrano, director of Clearview.
Automation with human focus
Beyond the technology, the system aligns with Zebra Technologies’ vision of intelligent operations and connected frontline workers. With intuitive touch controls and real-time asset visibility, operators can intervene when needed with greater accuracy and context.
Source: Zebra Technologies
