IEN: What innovations are in store for users in the areas of: configurable hardware; improved algorithms; interfaces, self-sustaining communication functionality; mesh systems; color; intelligent sensing; high-end edge detection; MEMS/sensing clusters; nanosensing; data acquisition; software; ruggedization?
Jelonek: Advances in technology have pushed vision users to seek higher performance at faster speeds. Demands usually include increased resolution, high repeatability, and flexible toolsets. At Keyence, we''ve tried to meet these demands by releasing products that set the market, such as the industry''s smallest digital camera, and 2 Megapixel vision systems that are able to provide ± 0.05 pixel repeatability at speeds of 6,000 ppm. In the sensing arena, speed and accuracy also play a large role. Sensors used for measuring runout or eccentricity require a high sampling rate in order to create accurate trends. The new LK-G series released by Keyence in March of 2005 reaches sampling speeds of 50 KHz while maintaining 0.1 um resolution. (Pictured, Keyence''s new CV-2600 2-Mega-Pixel Vision system.)
IEN: What are the R & D hotspots (e.g. SDT, MTJ, nanotechnology, biosensors)? Which R & D areas are closest to commercialization?
Jelonek: Nanotechnology is an emerging market with huge potential. In order to produce nanotech components, high precision devices are needed to ensure their quality. Keyence provides sensors with the submicron accuracy that helps maintain the strict tolerances necessary in the nanotech industry.
IEN: Are wireless applications increasing? Have the challenges related to connectivity to low-power and ultra-low-power devices been overcome? Are users adopting self-organizing sensor networks?
Jelonek: Wireless has not become a staple on the factory floor yet due to electric noise issues. Currently this technology is more useful in logistic or warehouse situations, where there is less interference from surrounding equipment. Other forms of connectivity, such as Ethernet and OPC, are growing by leaps and bounds. For instance, current vision software is available that will notify maintenance personnel of line problems via email, as well as allow users to collect data into spreadsheets for quality control reports.