Fraunhofer Seminar Showcases the Latest Technologies for AI-Based Surface Inspection
Fraunhofer Vision is hosting a hands-on seminar on surface inspection in early December. The seminar will focus on image processing, 3D metrology, and modern quality control methods.
Automated surface inspection is one of the most important applications of industrial image processing. To provide practical insight into current technologies, methods, and applications, the Fraunhofer Vision Division is hosting the seminar “Inspection and Characterization of Surfaces Using Image Processing” on December 2 and 3, 2026, at Fraunhofer IOSB in Karlsruhe.
The seminar will focus on modern methods for quality inspection of industrial products. Participants will gain an overview of how machine vision systems are used today to detect scratches, cracks, pores, inclusions, or contaminants. The seminar will also address challenging inspection tasks on reflective, transparent, patterned, or mirror-like surfaces.
In addition to traditional surface inspection methods, the seminar will cover current developments in optics, camera systems, and lighting technologies. A key focus is on modern approaches such as light-field technologies and software-based methods for automated defect classification. In addition, solutions in 3D surface metrology will be presented, which enable the precise analysis of micro- and nanostructures.
The first day of the seminar is devoted to the theoretical fundamentals. Topics covered include image acquisition, illumination concepts, system architectures, and methods for evaluating image and measurement data. Real-world industrial applications demonstrate the possibilities and limitations of the technology.
In the practical portion, participants will work with various surface inspection systems and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art inspection technology. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to discuss specific questions with the experts and incorporate their own workpieces or samples into the practical exercises.
With its combination of theory, live demonstrations, and hands-on exercises, the seminar is aimed specifically at professionals in quality management, production, development, and automation who wish to learn about the current state of the art in image-based surface inspection. Especially against the backdrop of growing demands for quality assurance and zero-defect strategies, automated surface inspection continues to gain importance in numerous industrial sectors.
