Jabil’s optical design center in Jena, Germany, has developed a breakthrough 3D camera prototype capable of operating in both indoor and outdoor environments up to 20 meters. The innovative system combines technologies from Jabil, ams OSRAM, and Artilux to overcome traditional limitations of machine vision in sunlight.
Cutting-Edge SWIR Technology Enables All-Light Operation
The camera operates at 1130 nanometers in the short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) spectrum, utilizing germanium-silicon sensor arrays and CMOS-compatible technology. This novel approach provides superior performance in high-ambient light conditions while offering enhanced eye safety and skin detection capabilities critical for human-robot interaction.
Transforming Industrial Automation Capabilities
As the industrial robot market grows at 11% annually toward $35 billion by 2029, this technology addresses critical needs for autonomous systems. The 3D sensing solution enables improved obstacle detection, collision avoidance, and navigation – functions previously constrained by sunlight interference in outdoor or bright indoor environments.
Industry Leaders Hail New Paradigm
“This breakthrough eliminates the sunlight limitations that have constrained autonomous platforms,” said Ian Blasch, Jabil’s senior director of optics business development. Dr. Joerg Strauss of ams OSRAM emphasized the technology’s safety advantages, noting its importance for collaborative robotics applications where humans and machines work in proximity.
Future Applications Beyond Industrial Use
While initially targeting industrial automation, the SWIR-based 3D sensing technology shows potential for broader applications. The successful prototype demonstration marks a significant step toward commercial production of next-generation machine vision systems capable of operating in any lighting condition.
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