Photonics West 2026: Industrial Machine Vision Takes Center Stage

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With the newly introduced Vision Tech Expo, machine vision will have its own platform within the trade fair for the first time. AI-supported image analysis, embedded vision, and 3D sensor technology are central topics here, as are hyperspectral and multispectral imaging for demanding inspection tasks.

The list of exhibitors also underscores the growing importance of this segment. Companies such as Schneider-Kreuznach will be presenting high-precision industrial lenses and filters developed for demanding machine vision applications. Fraunhofer IPMS will be showcasing MEMS-based light modulators and microdisplays that open up new possibilities for adaptive image processing. The German Pavilion brings together numerous other suppliers presenting optical measurement technology and vision systems for the manufacturing industry.

The accompanying technical program offers over 5,000 presentations and sessions. Of particular interest to image processing experts is the Vision Tech Forum, which focuses on AI algorithms, deep learning for visual inspection, and the integration of machine vision into automated production environments. This is where developers, system integrators, and users meet to discuss the future of industrial vision technologies.