In 1981, Perceptron was established by three graduates of GMI (now Kettering University) with the idea of using in-line machine vision to improve quality, accelerate product launch time and reduce cost for automotive manufacturers. Perceptron's philosophy combined advanced mathematics and optical technology to redefine the manufacturing quality control process.
Perceptron has since expanded into two separate business units and opened multiple support offices around the world.
Industrial Business Unit (IBU)
The Industrial Business Unit includes several major product offerings used by manufacturers to reduce process variation, improve quality and reduce cost. IBU also sells hardware and software packages to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Integrators and Value Added Resellers (VARs) as key components in non-contact portable scanning and wheel alignment applications. Below is a brief description of each IBU product:
AutoGauge - These systems are used by many of the worlds leading auto manufacturers and their suppliers to contain, correct and control the quality of body structures and the assembly process. AutoGauge systems can be placed directly in the manufacturing line to automatically measure critical dimensional characteristics on automotive vehicles, sub-assemblies and parts using non-contact, laser triangulation sensors. AutoGauge is also available as a hybrid system featuring fixed-mounted sensors and robot-mounted sensors. Hybrid solutions offer ultimate flexibility to measure multiple vehicle styles or part types on a single manufacturing line while maintaining high-speed production rates.
AutoFit These systems are used in automotive manufacturing plants to contain, correct and control the fit of exterior body panels. The system automatically measures, records and displays the gap and flushness of parts most visible to the final consumer such as gaps between front and rear doors, hoods and fenders, and deck lids and rear quarter panels. The TriCam laser triangulation sensor has been enhanced to enable gap and flushness to be measured in several parts of the manufacturing process: in the body shop during assembly of non-painted vehicles, and in the final assembly area after the vehicle has been painted. AutoFit has the ability to measure vehicles while in motion along the assembly line or in a stationary position.
AutoScan These systems provide a fast, non-contact method of gathering data to analyze a parts surface contour and features on automotive closure panels (doors, decklids and hoods). These systems use a robot-mounted Contour TriCam sensor specifically designed to scan a part as the robot moves throughout its path. The sensor collects a 3D digital representation of the part and compares it to the corresponding computer-generated design to quickly display surface and feature deviation.
AutoGuide These robot guidance systems were developed in response to the increasing use of robots in automated assembly applications. AutoGuide systems calculate the difference between the theoretical and actual relationships of a robot and the part being assembled and send compensation data, in six axes, to the robot so the part is positioned in the right place every time. Robotic applications supported by AutoGuide include windshield insertion, roof loading, hinge mounting, door attachment, sealant application and many others.
Value Added Services Perceptron provides additional services including: training, field service, launch support services, consulting services, maintenance agreements, repairs and software tools.
ScanWorks - is a hardware and software package that is sold through third party OEMs, system integrators and VARs. The package allows its OEM customers to add scanning capabilities to their machines or systems. The use of the ScanWorks software and the Contour Probe sensor enables end-users to collect, display, manipulate and export large sets of point cloud data from optical tracking devices, Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMMs) or portable CMMs.
WheelWorks - combines software with TriCam sensors and are sold to multiple wheel alignment machine OEMs in Europe, Asia and North America. WheelWorks offers a fast, accurate, non-contact method of measuring wheel position for automated or manual wheel alignment machines in automotive assembly plants.
Commercial Business Unit (CBU)
Perceptron leveraged its strong technical expertise in electronics, optics and image processing to introduce the Commercial Business Unit. CBU develops and manufactures a variety of handheld visual inspection devices and add-on accessories that are marketed through strategic partners.
The first commercial product, the Ridgid SeeSnake micro inspection camera, was launched in 2007 through a partnership with Ridge Tool Company. The SeeSnake micro allows users to easily perform visual inspections in hard to reach areas.
In 2008, Perceptron signed an agreement with Snap-on Logistics Company to design and manufacture visual inspection products for the mechanics market. The first Snap-on product, the BK5500 visual inspection device, was released in September of 2008. The BK5500 features an 8.5 millimeter diameter imager head that fits inside most spark plug holes and other tight areas.
Perceptron introduced its second major product for Ridge Tool, the Ridgid microEXPLORER Digital Inspection Camera, in July 2008. The microEXPLORER takes inspection to the next level with its ability to capture still images or record videos for diagnosing and solving difficult problems. In October 2008, CBU released the second generation of the SeeSnake micro.
In June 2009 Perceptron began shipping the BK6000 video inspection camera for Snap-on. The BK6000 features two times digital zoom, a mini USB connector for uploading images and video to a computer, an audio input jack for recording comments and a number of other enhancements.
In addition to the above products, CBU has developed numerous add-on accessories such as longer cable lengths, UV imagers, and dual imagers to support and establish a complete family of visual inspection tools.
