F&S analysis on 3-D vision sensors
and image processing algorithms
Frost & Sullivan has said, "Rapid advances in
3-D vision sensors and image processing algorithms have
resulted in a rise in the adoption of 3-D vision system
as a tool for solving challenging and complex vision tasks
in the manufacturing lines of various industrial sectors.
Use of 3-D vision sensors for human computer interfacing
is becoming immensely popular such as in the latest industrial
robot applications to enhance robot flexibility and intelligence.
The current trend in state-of-the-art vision systems is
the presence of graphical interfaces for operators and comprehensive
monitoring environments that even untrained technicians
can handle with ease."
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, 3-D Vision Sensors
and Image Processing Algorithms - A Technology Assessment,
finds that most of the developments and technology breakthroughs
in 3-D technology have their origins in military projects
and applications. However, the civilian market demand is
also picking up with applications such as civil service,
first response and homeland security.
"Several startup companies have identified the potential
for 3-D vision techniques and 3-D depth sensing for various
applications," said Technical Insights research analyst
Sunanda Jayanth. "The manufacturers will have a faster
return on investment (ROI), due to the swift time-to-market
for technologies in this space."
3-D vision technology is poised to affect a wide variety
of industries such as industrial automation and manufacturing,
automotive safety, gaming, consumer electronics, as well
as surveillance and biometrics for security. The primary
driver for widespread adoption of 3-D vision and image sensors
is the advances in enabling technologies for 3-D vision.
Over the past decade, enhanced processing capabilities and
semiconductor technologies have significantly miniaturized
the existing electronics devices. Consequently, the price
of high-speed processors and memories has decreased, and
programmers and developers are able to achieve more with
the existing processors. Additionally, intelligent software
to process the information from hardware boosts several
application areas.
However, the high cost of equipment is a major challenge
for 3-D sensing. Customers and end-users often opt for other
incumbent technologies due to price, complexity and cost
of factory-wide deployment of a new technology requiring
a huge capital investment.
"3-D vision technologies such as laser triangulation
and stereovision come with a hefty price tag, restraining
effective factory-wide deployment," said Jayanth.
Wide usage of technologies that lead to cost reduction
is expected. Furthermore, it is useful to offer inexpensive
assembly and production concepts that lead to high yield
and cost reduction along the value chain. Development of
low-cost solutions based on complementary metal oxide semiconductor
(CMOS) image sensors for 3-D applications is a key enabler
to overcome the limitations posed by cost barriers. The
photon mixer device (PMD) technology has paved way for low-cost
and robust 3-D CMOS solutions.
"There are low-cost solutions emerging that will enable
near proximity tracking with high resolution," said
Jayanth. "This level of technology will allow for extremely
detailed hand pose and motion detection, leading to another
level of gesture control, particularly for laptop and cell
phone control."
