MachineVision

The project “Machine Vision for Carbon Composites” focuses on developing cost-effective and user-friendly tools for process monitoring and quality assurance in the production of carbon fiber composites (CFRPs) using polarization imaging. In collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics (ITWM), the project uses compact and cost effective USB polarization cameras to detect key structural parameters, like fiber orientation, during and after production. Fiber alignment is crucial for ensuring the strength and lightweight potential of CFRPs, but current methods often fail to identify production defects early enough. By integrating such cameras and graphics-based edge computing devices into production lines, the project aims for real-time detection of deviations enabling immediate process adjustments. This reduces waste and improves overall production efficiency. This helps companies optimize their processes and improve simulation and recycling strategies. The project’s collaboration with 20 members of the Composites United community from various industries ensures that the technology can be widely adopted helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) embrace new technologies and stay competitive in the high-tech composite sector. In addition to supporting SMEs in digitizing their processes, the initiative aligns with broader European goals to promote innovation, sustainability, and resource-efficient production in advanced composite manufacturing processes.

The aim of the project is the development of an open-source software platform to facilitate digitalization, process control and optimization across multiple stages of CFK production—from raw material handling to the finished composite parts using polarization-imaging technology.