Zivid: Innovating Machine Vision Technology in Norway
Zivid is a pioneering Norwegian company specializing in machine vision technology, headquartered in Oslo, Norway. Established in 2015, Zivid focuses on the design and sale of advanced 3D color cameras and vision software intended for use in various industrial applications. The company has made significant strides in the automation sector, providing solutions that enhance the capabilities of autonomous industrial robots and collaborative robots (cobots). Through its innovative products, Zivid aims to contribute to the growing field of industrial automation and improve efficiency across multiple sectors.
Foundational History of Zivid
The origins of Zivid can be traced back to the research conducted by its founders, Henrik Schumann-Olsen and Øystein Skotheim, who worked together at SINTEF, Norway’s largest independent research organization. Between 2000 and 2011, they engaged in research focused on machine vision solutions that involved various 3D imaging techniques. This foundational work laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Zivid.
From Concept to Prototype
The turning point for the team came with the launch of Microsoft’s Kinect motion sensor add-on for Xbox in 2010. This device sparked interest among researchers and tech enthusiasts alike, leading to modifications that prompted the inception of a ‘Kinect for Industry’ concept at SINTEF. By 2014, this concept culminated in a prototype known as ShapeCrafter 3D, which showcased impressive 3D vision capabilities and color point clouds. The ShapeCrafter was first unveiled at VISION 2014 in Stuttgart, Germany.
Establishment of Zivid Labs
In 2015, following the successful development of their prototype and with financial backing from the Research Council of Norway amounting to 6 million NOK, Schumann-Olsen and Skotheim officially founded Zivid Labs as a spin-out from SINTEF. This marked the formal beginning of Zivid as a company dedicated to advancing machine vision technology.
Product Development Timeline
Zivid’s journey has been characterized by a series of innovative product launches that have established it as a key player in the machine vision market.
The Introduction of Zivid One
In March 2017, Zivid launched its first mass-produced product, the Zivid One 3D color camera. Designed with industrial applications in mind, this camera was rated IP65 for robustness and reliability. This product marked Zivid’s entry into the market and was well-received for its advanced capabilities.
Evolution with Zivid One+
The evolution continued with the introduction of the upgraded Zivid One+ in November 2018 at VISION 2018 in Stuttgart. This new model featured an expanded portfolio of three cameras capable of operating at varying distances from 30 centimeters (12 inches) to 3 meters (9.8 feet). The Zivid One received several prestigious awards, including Red Dot’s “Product Design” award and Vision System Design’s “Gold Innovators Award,” reflecting its impact on the industry.
Advancements with Zivid 2
In November 2020, Zivid announced the release of Zivid 2, a high-precision 3D color camera that was more compact and lighter than its predecessors. This device was designed for both stationary and robotic applications, showcasing Zivid’s commitment to innovation. Alongside hardware advancements, significant updates were made to their software development kit (SDK) to enhance performance and usability.
Latest Innovations: The Zivid 2+ Family
The most recent advancements came with the unveiling of the Zivid 2+ family in June 2023. This series includes models such as M60, M130, and L110, which integrate enhanced capabilities for capturing high-quality point clouds and transparent imaging. These innovations address long-standing challenges within machine vision technology related to capturing transparency accurately—a feat that had previously been deemed nearly impossible.
Technological Underpinnings
Zivid’s technology relies on structured light or fringe projection techniques to generate detailed three-dimensional images. By projecting a defined grid pattern using white LED light onto an object and analyzing distortions captured by a high-resolution image sensor, Zivid cameras create an accurate point cloud. Each pixel provides vital data such as XYZ coordinates along with native RGB information. This process ensures high-density point clouds with minimal missing data—essential for producing lifelike representations of scenes.
Diverse Applications Across Industries
Zivid’s product offerings are utilized across various sectors including manufacturing, logistics, e-commerce, and more. The cameras serve critical functions such as bin-picking, assembly tasks, quality inspection processes, parcel handling operations, and de-palletizing activities within automated environments. Their versatility allows them to adapt to different operational needs while significantly enhancing productivity and accuracy.
Corporate Identity and Recognition
The name “Zivid” is derived from combining “vivid,” representing clarity and detail in imaging, with “Z,” denoting depth within a three-dimensional context. This name reflects the core mission of providing bright and detailed visual solutions through advanced technology.
Awards and Accolades
Zivid has garnered multiple awards recognizing its innovation within the industry. These accolades include:
- Top Innovation Award from inVISION Magazine
- Gold Innovators Award from Vision Systems Design
- Red Dot Product Design Award
- Innovation Award from The Research Council of Norway (2018)
- Tech Award from Teknisk Ukeblad, NITO, Tekna, Polyteknisk Forening
- Årets Nykommerpris from Innovasjon Norge
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Zivid stands at the forefront of machine vision technology innovation within Norway and beyond. With its continuous focus on developing advanced solutions tailored to meet industrial demands, Zivid is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of automation across diverse fields. As industries increasingly lean towards automation to enhance efficiency and productivity, companies like Zivid will undoubtedly lead the charge into an era where machines see as clearly as humans do.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).