Machine vision system manufacturer Cognex Corp., Natick, MA, expanded its 3D vision capabilities with the acquisition of two European companies specializing in 3D machine vision technology. EnShape GmbH and AQSense add not just innovative 3D products but also advanced engineering teams to the Cognex business.
EnShape GmbH, Jena, Germany, makes advanced 3D vision sensors and software using patented area-scan technology for fast image capture at high resolution, which eliminate the need to mechanically move objects in front of the device as required with laser line scanners, Cognex said. The company’s engineering team will become part of a new Cognex engineering center based in Jena.
AQSense, Girona, Spain, is a provider of 3D vision software. The company develops and sells a library of field-tested 3D vision tools and a configuration software package that helps customers easily set up their 3D vision applications. The company’s software engineers joined Cognex’s 3D engineering team upon the closing of the acquisition in August.
“We see a growing number of opportunities for 3D vision in industries such as automotive, consumer electronics and logistics, to name just a few,” said Joerg Kuechen, vice president of Vision Products for Cognex. “We believe that our acquisition of these two companies, especially the addition of two highly experienced new engineering teams, will accelerate our ability to bring innovative new 3D products to market.”