Products
Embedded vision
Fully integrated visual intelligence
Whether due to small installation space or special tasks that require innovative image processing solutions with local intelligence: Embedded vision solutions are becoming increasingly popular. The corresponding camera modules in the Balluff portfolio combine flexibility, image quality and performance with low costs and are part of our modular construction kit.
Depending on the application area and requirements, different processor platforms and interfaces have become established. Based on our modular camera architecture, you are guaranteed to find the right camera modules for your embedded platform from us - and a strong partner in us who will support you throughout the entire project.
The advantages
Embedded vision solutions are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Our embedded vision camera modules offer flexibility, image quality and performance at a low cost and are part of our modular camera system.
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Smaller installation space
Balluff embedded vision cameras are compact and lightweight, with up to 70% volume savings compared to traditional industrial camera PC solutions. -
Optimal AI platform
Our AI-optimized hardware and software enable scalable, future-proof embedded platforms. -
Low energy consumption
With energy-efficient optimized hardware, you save up to 60% energy compared to conventional solutions. -
Lower costs
Costs are saved through optimal component selection.
Our concept
We support you in all project phases of your vision solution with comprehensive services and our broad portfolio. From non-binding consulting to feasibility studies and prototypes to support for all integration stages: We accompany your project throughout its entire life cycle.
In addition to camera modules, our product range also includes all necessary components from cables or carrier boards to fully assembled and tested systems. Operating system, firmware and software modules complement the hardware to create a custom-fit solution for your specific requirements.
We cover a wide range of processor architectures (x86 and ARM (NVIDIA)), operating systems (e.g. Linux, Windows), camera interfaces (PCI Express, USB), communication interfaces (e.g. TCP, UDP, Rest-API, MQTT, Profinet, Ethernet-IP, IO-Link) and firmware (e.g. SDK, Embedded Linux, Solution Framework).
Our interfaces
We offer our embedded vision cameras with USB and PCI Express interface.
USB
Especially with USB 3.0 embedded systems can be realized over longer distances between camera and CPU. The USB3 Vision standard controls device detection, configuration, data streaming and event handling.
PCI Express
PCI Express is a point-to-point connection with up to 16 lanes per connection. The interface is suitable for demanding embedded vision applications with high resolutions and frame rates, regardless of the platform used.
For PCI Express transmission you will find two alternatives:
First, the N4e PCIe-Embedded Interface offers up to 4 lanes of PCIe Gen.2 and various IO functions on a single 70-pin board-to-board connector. On the other hand, particularly large distances can be bridged in your embedded systems with the help of OCuLink cables (Optical-Copper Link).
Our modular system
Based on our modular camera concept, we also offer an extensive modular system for embedded vision camera modules - with a wide range of equipment options for the most diverse requirements for interfaces, lens connections and optical filters. For the thermal connection to the system, you can also choose from various mechanical components as well as complete housings. A large number of options can be put together directly in our camera configurator.
For OEM projects, we additionally offer individual configurations and customer-specific adaptations up to entire special developments. Especially for the latter, our camera construction kit is the ideal basis for keeping development times short and thus also minimizing your time-to-market.
Our processor architectures
The processor boards available for embedded vision applications predominantly use processor architectures based on x86 or Arm (including NVIDIA). X86 processor architectures are mainly used in machine vision applications, while Arm-based architectures are particularly used in mobile applications. Support for the x86 architecture facilitates the move to embedded systems in machine vision as well - and opens up entirely new possibilities in terms of space savings and performance.
The various platforms are supported by our Impact Acquire SDK programming interface. The GenICam GenTL Producer ensures compatibility with existing developments and guarantees smooth switching between different hardware platforms. Adapter boards or plug-in cards are available for the respective computer platforms.
Our products
We offer embedded vision cameras with USB (USB 2.0 as well as USB3 Vision) or PCI Express interface.
A strong partner at your side
With a lot of experience and understanding of your application and requirements, we advise you on all components of the optimal embedded vision solution. Experts in the fields of optics, sensors, camera and processor technology provide comprehensive support for your project. In addition, we offer individual and interactive workshops and training courses.
On request, we also carry out feasibility studies for more complex problems: In doing so, we consider all boundary conditions in detail and evaluate the possible solutions for an optimal basis for decision-making.
If you cannot find the solution you are looking for in our portfolio or modular camera system, we can also customize our products - or develop completely new solutions for you. You can find out more about this under Custom Design and Engineering.