TKH manufactures state-of-the-art vision systems, and vision technology accounts for approximately 86% of Smart Vision Systems segment sales. In 2021, sales of smart vision systems increased by 9.4% to €429.8 million. Divestments made in 2020 reduced sales by 0.5% and foreign exchange had a negative impact of 0.6%. Organic sales growth was 10.5%, despite electronic component supply constraints. Supply shortages had a slight impact on sales, although in most cases we managed to either secure most of the components needed or to redesign our products to accommodate components that were more widely available. The order backlog grew by 91.1% year-on-year to €139.3 million.

Vision Technology – the strongest contributor to this segment's growth in 2021 was Machine Vision across all regions and end markets. We successfully maintained our leading market position in 3D vision for consumer electronics and the wood industry, while significantly expanding our business in the battery, logistics and semiconductor markets. Within 2D Vision, the Alvium portfolio of embedded vision solutions is gaining traction and sales are growing.

Strong demand for 2D and 3D imaging technologies is expected to continue into 2022, thanks to a combination of targeted programs in key markets and improved market conditions.