Systems engineering

Abstract

In Chapter 2, we concentrated on the mathematical formulation of digital image-processing operators, while in Chapter 3 we discussed some of the basic algorithmic variations that we can employ to facilitate their implementation in either software or dedicated electronic hardware. In this chapter, we move on to consider other much broader Systems Engineering issues relating to industrial Machine Vision. In particular, we will concentrate on the important topics of human-to-machine and machine-to-machine interfacing. We will base much of our discussion in this chapter on the premise that without trust and confidence, the workers in a factory or laboratory will rapidly become hostile to a vision system; they will look for every opportunity to disrupt its smooth operation and will surely prevent it from working effectively. If there is any perceived conflict between people and machines in a factory, human beings will always win! The lesson is clear: sound engineering and, in particular, good interfacing and attention to detail in system design are of crucial importance.

When there is no vision, the people perish. Book of Proverbs, ch 29, v 18