IDS Updates NXT Ocean Camera with Multiple Neural Network Support

February 23, 2022

IDS has announced that users of its all-in-one embedded vision system, IDS NXT ocean, can now have a range of new features with its latest updates. This includes multi-regions of interest (ROI) for AI-based object detection, and the possibility to use different neural networks for different ROIs in one image via the Vision App. Binning, line scan mode, performance and configuration improvements have also been made.

In addition, new customers can freely choose whether they want to use the IDS NXT lighthouse training software on AWS – previously offered by IDS – or whether to use Microsoft Azure Cloud. With Azure, IDS now supports another cloud host for the AI training software. The offer is aimed at companies that are not allowed to work with AWS due to regulatory requirements, IDS said. The scope of functions and services, as well as the operation of the training software, is the same for both cloud providers. Instead of setting up their own development environment, users can start training their neural network right away in IDS NXT lighthouse – even without prior knowledge of deep learning or camera programming. The process includes three steps: Uploading of sample images, labeling the images and then starting the fully automatic training. IDS said the network is optimized for use with IDS NXT industrial cameras.

The company also said customers can activate a free trial month of IDS NXT lighthouse, and use it to extensively test the software. Users only need to register with an IDS user account here and select the appropriate option for cloud host – license keys are automatically provided.

IDS said the current software release includes a new regular cycle for function updates, with new features planned every three to four months to help improve the IDS NXT system and give customers “even more scope for designing their image processing application.” The next update, also free for customers, is scheduled for April.

More details are available at the IDS website.