Partnership delivers advanced camera modules for AMRs

Innodisk Corp. and Advantech Co., Ltd. have announced a partnership to improve vision capabilities for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in smart factories, warehouses and retail environments. The partnership leverages Innodisk’s customizable MIPI camera modules and Advantech’s Intel x86-based AFE-R360 solution to enhance AI-powered object detection and recognition capabilities.

The AFE-R360, designed for AMRs, is built on the Intel Meteor Lake-H/U platform. It features a 16-core processor, Xe LPG GPU, and integrates the neural processor unit (NPU) into the Intel Core Ultra processor for high-performance, low-power deep learning execution for edge AI.

MIPI interface cameras, known for high bandwidth, low power consumption and low latency, are becoming the preferred choice for visual applications at the edge, according to the companies. To meet this growing requirement, the AFE-R360 supports MIPI-CSI-2 solutions, enabling seamless integration with embedded MIPI camera modules.

Innodisk’s key models supported on the AFE-R360 include the EV2M-GOM1 (fisheye camera), with adjustable ultra-wide field of view with de-warping technology, and the EV2M-OOM1 (global shutter camera), designed for high-speed dynamic scenes to capture fast-moving objects or production lines in smart factories.

Innodisk’s key models supported on the AFE-R360 include the EV2M-GOM1 and the EV2M-OOM1. (Source: Innodisk Corp.)

The Innodisk MIPI cameras are optimized for platform compatibility with custom drivers for easy installation. Both models are highly customizable with driver development, IQ tuning, field of view and size design. The integrated image signal processor (ISP) meets the high-resolution and frame rate requirements for various edge AI applications, the company said. These MIPI camera modules support major platforms including Intel and NVIDIA Jetson.

Together, the Innodisk and Advantech technologies deliver advanced object recognition capabilities for AMRs, leveraging the Intel Core Ultra 7/5 processors for real-time processing of high-resolution images and environment perception, resulting in responsive actions, the companies said.

The Innodisk MIPI camera modules, including the EV2M-GOM1 and EV2M-OOM1 models, are now available. The Advantech AFE-R360 solution with MIPI camera support is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2024. Advantech offers a range of AMR robotic solutions.