INTERCONNECTION


Empowering Robotics: Interconnection for Vision and Sensing Technologies


David Bushnell, Inelco Hunter managing director T


hrough advances in technology, the limitations of what we can achieve with robots are narrowing. Pivotal to this progress is the technology of vision and sensing, as it plays a crucial role in navigating complex environments and enabling intelligent decision-making.


Here we explore the complex world of robotic vision sensors, and the connector solutions facilitating seamless integration. These solutions are contributing to the ongoing development of robotics and the industries benefi ting from ever-evolving technology.


Understanding Robotic Sensing and Vision


Robotic vision sensors are compact,


self-contained units containing a controller, lights and integrated camera. This incredible technology is what empowers robots in perceiving and interacting with their


surroundings, allowing split-second decisions based on the visual data they receive, just like a person.


In applications such as warehouse robots, collaborative robots and drone AI, it is crucial that sensor technologies like computer vision, radar, ultrasound and LIDAR are well integrated. This is because robots must be able to perform object detection, autonomous operations, tracking and classifi cation effectively.


Tracking and Navigation The ability to track objects in real time is essential for robotic applications, of which there are many. One example is drones, which rely on a combination of radar, vision, and lidar sensor data to navigate through airspace and accurately pinpoint their location.


Autonomous Operations & Object Detection


It is a signifi cant advantage to use automated robots in situations such as warehouses to move goods around effi ciently. These robots, known as Autonomous Mobile Robots or AMR, use cameras, ultrasound, Lidar and radar to avoid colliding with staff, obstacles and other robots.


To achieve accurate object detection and classifi cation, robotic vision sensors must incorporate embedded computer vision technologies, where automated visual inspection capability is paramount.


Interconnect Solutions within Robotics


Here is a selection of Amphenol connectors that facilitate and enhance robotics: Fine-pitch connector designs with a self-alignment feature for blind mating are ideal for applications with space constraints, like warehouse robots or drone cameras, which also have stringent


signal-integrity benchmarks, such as the BergStak 0.40mm Self-Alignment Board-to-Board Connector.


Waterproof USB Type C IPX8 connectors, such as the BrightConnX series, offer high-speed connectivity and scalability, meeting the demanding requirements of spills or increasingly harsh weather conditions. Factory applications will include robotic arms as well as AMR cameras. A positive locking mechanism ensures secure mating in harsh conditions.


SPE IP67 Circular Push-Pull connectors give direct Ethernet connectivity to compact robotic vision industrial devices, such as cameras. High-speed data transmission and Power over Data Link (PoDL) are supported, thus withstanding the harsh environments on the factory fl oor.


Waterproof Crimp-to-Wire Connector connections are needed to ensure reliable performance for automotive, lighting, camera/sensor, infotainment, HVAC, and battery management applications. Vibration resistance is also essential, all provided by the MicroSpaceXS 1.27mm.


Floating Board-to-Board Connectors, such as Amphenol’s FloatCombo 0.50mm, provide high-speed data transmission and high current capabilities. They are suitable for applications requiring reliability in challenging environments, meeting the rigorous industry standards for automotive and industrial applications due to their USCAR-2 T3V2 qualifi cation and UL94V-0 fl ammability rating. Lastly, the Industrial RJ Plug is a next-generation solution for Industrial IoT connectivity, providing robust Ethernet connectivity. Support will be required for high data rates, including CAT6A performance, enabling Gigabit Ethernet Protocols and 10Gig links. Applications will include IoT, sensors, actuators, network nodes, and various industrial applications.


The robotics landscape is being carved anew by the convergence of vision and sensing technologies. We can look ahead to a future where robots autonomously perform intricate tasks, seamlessly navigate complex environments, and contribute to advancements across various industries. Watch this space.


34 JUNE 2024 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS


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