APRIL 14--Cognex Corp. (Natick, MA;www.cognex), a supplier of machine-vision systems used in factory automation, has developed vision technology that will soon be incorporated into low-cost vision sensors for new markets and applications where machine-vision sensors have never before been successfully employed. Robert J. Shillman, Cognex's chairman and chief executive officer, said, "Because of the increased performance and decreased price of computer hardware, we can design vision-based products for high-volume applications that require high speed, high accuracy, and high reliability, but low cost."
The company's first product designed specifically for new, nonindustrial applications is called the Cognex CPS-1000. The CPS-1000 is a vision sensor designed for door security; it will detect and count people as they pass through an access-controlled doorway. It uses Cognex's existing vision software, as well as its patented 2- and 3-D vision technology that Cognex has developed specifically for "people-sensing" applications.
To help specify this product and to bring it quickly to market, Cognex has entered into a multiyear agreement with Horton Automatics (Corpus Christi, TX;www.hortondoors.com), a manufacturer of automatic doors. Under the agreement, Cognex will develop and manufacture the CPS-1000 and will provide the sensors on an OEM basis to Horton. Horton will integrate the CPS-1000 into its secure automatic doors and portals, which control access to facilities such as airports, government buildings, industrial clean rooms, and computer network rooms. The CPS-1000 will be used to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering secure areas by "piggybacking" or "tailgating" on the entry or exit of another person.
