In the heart of our era of rapid technological advancement, imaging, defined as the use of more or less specialized cameras, traditionally dedicated to industrial purposes, is now asserting itself in the development of applications that enhance our daily lives. Rapid advancements in imaging technology have transcended the boundaries of industry to offer innovative solutions with significant positive impacts in various fields, from healthcare to environmental preservation.
imaging, as a catalyst for technology transfer
Industrial imaging, initially deployed to optimize manufacturing processes, now serves as a catalyst for technology transfer to everyday applications. Cutting-edge technologies developed for automated inspection, quality monitoring and industrial process visualization have been successfully adapted to meet social and environmental challenges. This transfer has led to innovative applications in diverse sectors such as health, agriculture and the environment.
imaging as a source of innovation
Continuous progress in sensors and the development of imaging solutions built around these sensors have paved the way for significant innovations. These innovations manifest in increasingly compact and connected specialized devices, designed to meet user expectations with ergonomic considerations tailored to specific applications. From high-resolution cameras to hyperspectral sensors, incorporating visible or infrared frequency selection, embedded intelligence close to the sensor, and integrated connectivity for real-time access to the power of the internet, these technologies have transcended their initial use to be exploited in various applications. These advancements facilitate the acquisition of static or video images, extraction of useful information, precise data interpretation in two or three dimensions, and informed decision-making.
The automation of image acquisition processes, followed by methods for data extraction and analysis initially developed for industrial imaging, have experienced remarkable growth. These technologies now find diverse applications in the service of the common good, from medical image analysis for diagnostics to environmental monitoring for detecting changes in crops. Imaging also plays a role in diverse areas such as reducing food waste, recycling materials and plastics, underwater structure safety, optimal waste management, surgical assistance, and animal species protection, among others.
imaging, affordable and accessible
The democratization of imaging technologies, once expensive, is a key element in this positive evolution. Just as the cell phone democratized the use of the camera in a compact, handy device, it is now possible to develop an imaging device entirely dedicated to a given application, for a fraction of the annual volume of the cell phone and at a very competitive cost considering the value it brings to its user. Lower costs therefore make these technologies more accessible, enabling their widespread use in contexts where the cost of the device is crucial.
The evolution of industrial imaging towards applications with a positive impact on a broad public illustrates the ability of technologies to transcend their origins. Significant advances in the fields of sensors, automation for information acquisition and economic competitiveness are paving the way for innovative solutions at the service of the common good. As a result, industrial imaging is no longer limited to process optimization, but is becoming a major player in the resolution of contemporary societal challenges. Developing imaging for its positive impact, in service of the Common Good, is at the core of i2S’s mission.