Industrial Cameras Tailored to Measure IDS Demonstrates How Customized Cameras Are Created

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IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH

SIMTOS (Seoul International Machine Tool Show)

Standard cameras often reach their limits. In the Vision Channel session, IDS explains how a specific requirement turns into a customized camera—from the idea to EMC tests to series production, with transparent steps, clear costs, and manufacturing in Obersulm (Germany).

Those planning industrial image processing quickly encounter details that standard products cannot fully address: limited installation space, harsh environments, different connectors, pre-assembled optics, fixed IP addresses, or frozen firmware. In a live session, project manager Moritz Fuchs from IDS walks through the entire process of custom developments: "We don't start from scratch," says Fuchs. "We build on a series camera and a modular toolkit."

Between Initial Contact And Series Production: A Process With Clear Gates

In the initial meeting, whether via Teams, Zoom, on-site in Obersulm (Germany), or at the customer's location, the team clarifies background information and options. IDS then evaluates feasibility together with development and production, while the customer provides additional requirements. This is followed by a concept phase with proposals, during which both parties agree on the technology, one-time development efforts (NRE), and series prices. Implementation only begins once the specifications and calculations are finalized.

Depending on the project, engineers modify only the mechanics, adapt electronic schematics, or combine both. During development, IDS shares CAD data or schematics for customer approval. Procurement for prototypes then begins. Simultaneously, the team leverages internal resources to accelerate the process: an SMD production line for electronics, 3D printing, and a mechanical lab for rapid prototyping. Testing and validation run on two tracks: internally at IDS and with the customer in the target system.

Electromagnetic compatibility is particularly critical. Here, the in-house EMC chamber helps test early prototypes under real conditions. “This shortens the overall time from project start to series approval,” says Fuchs. Climate chambers are also available to cover temperature and humidity profiles. If a test cycle yields new insights, another loop follows without long waiting times for external lab slots.

What IDS Customizes—And What it Doesn’t

Typical customizations include pre-mounted and calibrated S-mount lenses set to defined working distances, alternative connectors (e.g., RJ45 or M12), preconfigured network settings, or customized mechanical designs. The electronics range from round circuit boards to flexible PCBs for tight installation spaces. IDS fulfills white-label requests through housing prints as well as brand-compliant firmware and software branding. “We approve every quality stage together,” emphasizes Fuchs, noting that the customer is always present at each gate.

IDS sets clear boundaries with firmware: Branding and targeted function customizations are possible, but the team does not undertake complete new developments for customers. The goal remains to strengthen the standard products technically and build adaptations upon them. This reduces risks, accelerates certifications, and keeps costs manageable.

Series Production, Change Management, And Longevity

Once the design is stable, series production takes place, like the prototypes, in Obersulm. The industrial engineering department adapts tools and processes for special parts, yet the modular production remains flexible. IDS promises long-term availability and defined change management. This ensures planning reliability for customers, even if components are discontinued or new variants are developed.

During the Q&A session, Fuchs addresses common concerns: custom solutions are not automatically expensive or difficult to maintain when built consistently close to series production, using modular components and transparent approvals. An everyday example: instead of ordering costly injection molding tools early on, 3D printing allows for rapid fit prototypes, reduces error risks, and postpones investments to the right moment.

External partners also showed interest, for example, in sensor assembly for small quantities or chip-on-board processes in cleanroom environments. Fuchs remained open to discussions, but the message of the session was clear: those with special requirements will find a structured path at IDS, from the first idea to series production. The modular design, close coordination with the customer, and development close to series production aim to accelerate the process, reduce risks, and enable a long-term, sustainable solution. (mc)

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