Pat-Genius object recognition license now available through firmware update for optical readers

Object recognition with Pat-Genius

Siemens releases a firmware update for the new generation of Simatic MV500 optical readers. These devices feature a high image resolution of up to 5.3 megapixels (MP) and a large working memory of up to two gigabytes (GB) amongst other features. The Pat-Genius object recognition license is now available for all devices in the Simatic MV500 family. This means that it is now possible not only to read 1D barcodes and 2D matrix codes, but also predetermined structures in the image can be checked regardless of the object pose.

The Pat-Genius functionality allows programs with subtasks such as object, position, and text recognition to be executed and presence verification and completion check to be performed. Applications such as pick & place, quality control, position detection, and quantity monitoring can thus be implemented quickly and reliably. The multi-core processor used in the Simatic MV500 devices allows the Pat-Genius license to operate at least four times more quickly than the previous series of readers, providing more readings per unit of time. Also higher image resolution allows either the object sizes or the image resolution to be doubled.

The new version of Pat-Genius significantly improves the learning and management of trained objects. Only a few user entries are required for stable read results. Thus, the edge points assigned to a sample are extracted from a marked image area and parameterized according to the fineness of the resolution of the possible changes in size and rotational position.

A further increase in recognition performance was achieved through the new image preprocessing function. This makes it possible to detect securely even in the event of poor image quality. Moreover, several different test samples can be used in parallel in a single program. This enables complex tests with corresponding results without re-image feed.

Pat-Genius is easy to operate as it is integrated into the uniform operating concept. Every device in the Simatic MV500 family can be retrofitted with the license, which is especially advantageous when it comes to spares inventory. Existing test programs of the previous series run unchanged on the Simatic MV500 devices. This allows the new optical readers’ powerful hardware to be used without any reprogramming.

The Pat-Genius function can be applied simultaneously with all other Simatic MV500 series function packages. The license is delivered as a single license on a USB (Universal Serial Bus) stick and can be loaded onto any Simatic MV500 series optical reader via the Simatic Automation License Manager (ALM).