PRODUCT REVIEWS
AI and the vision revolution
In today ’ s fast-paced manufacturing environment , artificial intelligence ( AI ) is emerging as the linchpin for innovation , driving efficiency , precision and sustainability across industries . AI offers manufacturing unprecedented possibilities , transforming every stage of production .
At its core , AI excels at processing enormous amounts of data in real-time , enabling systems to adapt , learn and optimise processes with minimal human intervention . This adaptability has opened the doors to new levels of customisation , reduced lead times and a significant decrease in waste .
“ In manufacturing , AI is driving automation in areas once thought to require human oversight , such as reliable material handling . When combined with advanced robotics , AI provides unmatched flexibility , making
The L3 . G4 fibre laser cutting system with Artificial Vision System ( AVS ). even the most complex production tasks faster and easier . For us at Salvagnini , AI isn ’ t just about replacing traditional methods — it ’ s about creating an ecosystem where machines and humans work in harmony , achieving results that neither could accomplish alone ,” sheet metal specialist , Salvagnini , told ISMR .
Revolutionising lasers with artificial vision systems
One of the clearest examples of AI ’ s potential in manufacturing is the introduction of artificial vision systems in laser cutting .
“ These systems , powered by AI , have turned what was once an intricate and
Salvagnini ’ s Nozzle Vision System ( NVS ) on the L3 . G4 fibre laser cutting system .
The Sheet / Scrap Vision System ( SVS ) addresses the challenge of material waste when laser cutting .
manual operation into an intuitive and streamlined process . The integration of artificial vision into our laser systems has made daily operations easier for operators , minimising the learning curve and ensuring consistent results even in demanding applications ,” explained Salvagnini .
“ Our Artificial Vision System ( AVS ) is a hallmark of this revolution . With AVS , lasercutting machines can automatically align pre-punched or bent sheet metal , reducing centring times dramatically and eliminating the errors inherent in manual alignment . This precision is invaluable in industries with high customisation needs or frequent production changes . AVS turns the laser into a multifunctional workstation that not only performs traditional cutting tasks but also adapts seamlessly to upstream operations ,” it added .
Another critical advance for Salvagnini is its Nozzle Vision System ( NVS ), designed to further enhance the reliability and efficiency of its laser technology . NVS ensures that the laser beam is perfectly centred on the nozzle , a crucial factor for maintaining high cutting quality . It uses machine learning to monitor the nozzle ’ s condition , identifying obstructions or issues that could degrade cutting performance . Using the system ’ s intuitive traffic-light feedback system , operators can take immediate corrective actions .
“ Our Sheet / Scrap Vision System ( SVS ) takes this transformation even further by addressing the challenge of material waste . With SVS , leftover sheet metal can be
54 | ismr . net | ISMR March 2025