Radar

New Insights for Industrial Quality Control

For many industrial inspection tasks, traditional optical methods are insufficient—for example, when relevant features are obscured by packaging or other materials. The RadarImager makes it possible to detect hidden structures noncontact and visualize them in three dimensions. This allows for the exploration of new approaches to inspection tasks such as completeness checks, foreign object detection, and other quality inspections.

In this project, the technology is being tested within a realistic logistics process. Unlike in previous test setups, the test objects are not transported via a conventional conveyor belt but are guided under the RadarImager by an automated guided vehicle (AGV). The goal is to investigate how the RadarImager can be flexibly integrated into intralogistics processes.

The focus is on the requirements for the AGV’s positioning accuracy and speed, as well as the coordination between the vehicle, the radar imager, and the existing systems. In addition, the necessary communication interfaces are examined. The findings are intended to serve as a basis for implementing similar testing tasks within automated logistics processes in the future.

From Technological Feasibility to Practical Application

The goal of the project is to use the insights gained from the demonstrator to systematically evaluate the potential applications of the RadarImager and to derive requirements for industrial use.

In addition to capturing three-dimensional image data, the project focuses on its comprehensible and application-oriented analysis. Users need not only new image information, but above all reliable results for their specific inspection tasks. The project therefore examines the entire process chain, from data acquisition and processing to the use of the results in industrial applications.

Another key focus is on the integration and logistics processes required for practical use. These include integration with existing systems, data exchange between the relevant components, and integration into logistics and fleet management solutions. The goal is to minimize the integration effort for users as much as possible and to facilitate the adoption of the technology.

In the long term, the insights gained are intended to simplify feasibility studies, reduce the time and expertise required, and provide a solid foundation for further project decisions. The collaboration within ARENA2036 offers a suitable environment for testing applications and jointly preparing the next steps in development.

Technologies Used

The project combines the RadarImager, 3D data acquisition, industrial image processing, and AI-based data analysis. This is complemented by AGV technologies, fleet management, industrial communication interfaces, and concepts for integrating inspection data into existing logistics, automation, and quality assurance processes.