Cognex revs up 2-D barcode reading

Read 2-D matrix and challenging DPM codes even without visible perimeters

Cognex Corporation (NASDAQ: CGNX), the world's leader in machine vision, announced its PowerGrid™ technology, a texture-based location algorithm that takes a unique, inside-out approach to reading 2-D matrix and Direct Part Mark (DPM) codes. While conventional feature-based algorithms start by locating the finder pattern, Cognex’s PowerGrid technology looks for a pattern of alternating light and dark modules within the code.

PowerGrid technology dramatically increases read rates in 2-D barcode-reading applications where a part’s geometry, poor lighting, occlusion, or print-registration errors make it difficult to capture an image of the entire code. Unlike previous solutions, PowerGrid technology can locate and read codes even when they exhibit significant damage to or complete elimination of the finder pattern, clocking pattern, or quiet zone.

“Even though 2DMax® software set the standard for performance in industrial ID for the most challenging 2-D barcodes, Cognex is constantly seeking opportunities to improve our decoding algorithms,” says Carl Gerst, Senior Vice President, ID Products. “After analyzing images of codes that we couldn’t read, we determined that a high percentage showed significant finder pattern, clocking pattern, or quiet zone damage. Leveraging our 30+ years of vision experience, our engineers came up with a completely new and innovative technique that can find and read these codes without relying on the finder pattern. The result is nothing short of incredible.”

Cognex’s PowerGrid technology is now available on the X models of the DataMan® 300 series fixed-mount barcode readers.

About Cognex
Cognex Corporation designs, develops, manufactures, and markets a range of products that incorporate sophisticated machine vision technology that gives them the ability to “see.” Cognex products include barcode readers, machine vision sensors, and machine vision systems that are used in factories, warehouses, and distribution centers around the world to guide, gauge, inspect, identify, and assure the quality of items during the manufacturing and distribution process. Cognex is the world's leader in the machine vision industry, having shipped more than 1 million vision-based products, representing over $4 billion in cumulative revenue, since the company's founding in 1981. Headquartered in Natick, Massachusetts, USA, Cognex has regional offices and distributors located throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. For details visit Cognex online at http://www.cognex.com. Cognex, DataMan and 2DMax are registered trademarks of Cognex Corporation and PowerGrid is a trademark of Cognex Corporation.