What is the difference between Semi-Automated and Automated Visual Inspection?

What is semi-automated Visual Inspection? 

Semi-automated Visual Inspection (SAVI) combines human expertise with automated transport and rotation of products. In this system, the actual inspection is still performed entirely by operators, but the movement and positioning of the samples are automated. This automation increases the speed of inspection, allowing companies to reduce the number of inspection personnel needed. 

The main advantage of SAVI machines is that they allow operators to inspect more products in less time by handling the repetitive tasks of transport and rotation, while maintaining the accuracy of human judgment. This method is particularly useful for companies that need to maintain high-quality standards but aren't ready to fully transition to automated inspection systems. 

Unlike fully automated systems, SAVI does not use cameras or machine vision to detect defects; instead, operators visually inspect each product as it moves through the system. This approach helps companies increase efficiency without losing the critical insights provided by human inspectors. 

For products such as colored or opaque items, semi-automated systems introduce additional control mechanisms and verification strategies. For example, eyetec helps clients develop protocols and testing strategies for these "difficult to inspect" products, ensuring machines detect defects accurately while minimizing human error. We also optimize existing semi-automated machines by fine-tuning inspection recipes to improve detection rates and reduce false rejects. 

Semi-automated Visual Inspection offers a cost-effective way to maintain high-quality standards without fully transitioning to automation, especially for companies handling complex or small production runs. 

What is automated Visual Inspection? 

Automated Visual Inspection removes the need for human involvement in the inspection process. These systems use advanced technologies like high-resolution cameras, machine vision, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) algorithms to automatically analyze products and detect defects in real-time. 

A key benefit of automated Visual Inspection is its ability to operate continuously, delivering consistent and accurate results even in large-scale production environments. This technology can identify a wide range of issues, such as particles, cracks, contaminants or missing components, with a precision that surpasses manual or semi-automated methods. 

eyetec supports automated Visual Inspection projects by assisting with FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), SAT (Site Acceptance Testing), and qualification processes such as IQ (Installation Qualification), OQ (Operational Qualification) and PQ (Performance Qualification).  After OQ and before PQ, during the engineering runs, our consultants help optimize the inspection recipe to ensure the system detects defects accurately and efficiently. We also assist with Process Validation to ensure that the system performs as expected under real production conditions. 

We also provide expertise in optimizing automated systems for new products. This includes adjusting parameters like camera settings, lighting, and rotation speeds, ensuring that the machines are ready to inspect a variety of product types. By writing user requirement specifications (URS), eyetec ensures that the machines built by manufacturers meet the exact needs of each project. 

eyetec’s expertise in Visual Inspection and qualification ensures that your projects, whether semi-automated or fully automated, are handled with precision. We help optimize systems, write protocols, and provide guidance from project inception to final production.