ZEN core

ZEN core

Industrial image processing

Image analysis for industrial microscopy

For the industry, the true value of an image is not in the optics, but in the data. To capture these, industrial image processing systems are used in combination with software. Using various methods, such as gray value analysis, simple image segmentation is possible, but reaches its limits in some places. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the perfect complement to this. AI-based software for industrial image processing, such as ZEISS ZEN core, is the key to automated, fast, reliable, scalable and, above all, reproducible results.

With ZEN core, ZEISS offers the solution for complex image processing. The software combines imaging, segmentation, analysis and data connectivity and enables automated image analysis of microscopic images. The intuitive user interface of the ZEN core software makes it easy to perform complex image analyses. Predefined workflows reduce the time required for analysis and generate reliable and reproducible results. Take advantage of the optional integration of a ZEISS microscope with live image acquisition and device control for advanced automated analyses. ZEN core offers you the opportunity to share your know-how throughout the company. The entire company benefits from automated image segmentation and analysis and achieves maximum quality assurance. Convince yourself of ZEISS ZEN core and test the software for industrial image processing free of charge and without obligation for up to 60 days.

The facets of industrial image processing

For industrial image processing, 2D and 3D images are first divided into different areas (image segmentation), which are then analyzed and provide important information. Industrial image processing is used for defect detection, structure and material analysis and also provides other data that is essential for quality control and assurance. If image processing is carried out manually in industrial applications, a great deal of experience and time is required for segmentation and analysis of the images. The solution: Artificial intelligence. Scalable, reliable and reproducible results can be achieved with automated image analysis. ZEISS ZEN core offers you exactly these advantages - and much more.

Deep learning for automated analyses

Deep learning for automated analyses

Deep learning is used to train an artificial intelligence that performs image segmentation and analysis of 2D and 3D images in an automated manner, quickly and with reliable results.

Intelligent material analysis

Intelligent material analysis

Complex analyses are required to examine the material properties and structure of an object. With ZEN core, complex analyses can be carried out easily and step-by-step based on a workflow.

Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section
Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section
Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section

Image analysis

Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section

In an industrial environment, image analysis is usually carried out in the form of image segmentation of microscopic images. To do this, the image is divided into several areas that are separated from each other. These areas and the boundaries between the different areas are analyzed, e.g. to identify defects and ensure product quality. Depending on the object, however, special cases must be taken into account. Connected areas are only relevant above a certain size and shape, for example, or it is important how far apart the areas are. This makes manual analysis very complex and time-consuming. Image processing software is used here, replacing manual analysis with an automated process. This reduces user influence and minimizes the time required to obtain information. Image analysis can work in connectivity with gray value analysis (thresholding) or via AI-based models.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) comprises automation and machine learning. Human thinking and learning is imitated by a computer. In industry, AI models are trained to recognize structures, defects and features and to solve complex problems graphically on their own.

ZEISS uses AI for image segmentation and holistic image analysis. By simply training a model using ZEISS ZEN core, segmentation and classification can be performed automatically for one or more images. This makes routine work more efficient, user-independent and saves time and costs.

Toolkit and module list

ZEN core offers various tools to support image analysis in the best possible way. Here you will find an excerpt from our software portfolio. All toolkits can be used independently of the imaging system.

  • Package contents:

    • Grain size analysis: Determination of grain sizes using various treatment types according to international standards
      • Planimetric method: Automatic reconstruction of grain boundaries (single grain measurement and determination of grain size distribution)
      • Line cut method: Semi-automatic measurement with cutting line patterns
      • Comparison method: Manual evaluation with reference series
      • Measurement according to the following standards: DIN EN ISO 643:2020 ASTM E 112-13 Plate I - IV; ASTM E 1382-97 GB/T 6394 2017
    • Cast iron analysis: Analysis of the shape, size and distribution of graphite particles in cast iron
      • Shape and size distribution in area percentage (optional: graphite arrangement with reference series)
      • Standard provided: DIN EN ISO 945 # 2019
      • Additional manual reclassification of phases
    • Multiphase analysis: Automated measurement of particle size and area in multiphase samples and evaluation of porosity
    • Comparison of reference series: Comparison of micrographs with standardized or user-defined reference series
      • Comparison with one, two, four or eight reference series images in one view with overlay option of image and chart for direct comparison:
        • Grains: DIN EN ISO 643:2012 ASTM E 112-13 Plate I - IV; GB/T6394 2002
        • Non-metallic inclusions (NMI): ISO 4967:2013; GB-10561 EN 10247:2007, ASTM E 45:2013; DIN 50602:1987
        • Graphite: EN ISO 945-1: 2008 + Cor. 1: 2010
        • Creation of a reference series: Functionality for the generation of customer-specific reference series
    • Coating thickness measurement: Automated or interactive measurement of the thickness of different layers
      Standards provided: ASTM B 487 - 2007, DIN EN ISO 1463 - 2004

    AI-enabled - pre-trained models can be executed to evaluate data. The models cannot be created or modified - the AI Toolkit is required for these tasks; a subscription to APEER ML is required for models based on deep learning.

  • Toolkit for 2D image analysis by creating automatic measurement programs, including advanced processing functions

  • Complete AI application package, including integrated training interfaces:

    • ZEN Intellesis segmentation: Automated image segmentation via machine learning algorithms
    • ZEN Intellesis object classification: Automatic object classification of segmented and analyzed images using machine learning algorithms
    • ZEN Intellesis AI noise reduction: AI-assisted noise reduction with Noise-2-Void algorithms
    • Macro environment: Programming customer-specific macros with Python
    • API: Control of ZEN core via API interface (service of the ZEISS programming team)
    • Traceability and accountability of workflows (prerequisite for compliance with 21 CFR Part 11)
    • Audit trail
  • SQL-based image database

    • Central database solution
    • Intelligent data management
    • Unlimited integrated user and access management without additional costs

Try out ZEN core

Simply register and test ZEN core free of charge - without any contractual obligation. Get to know our image analysis and machine learning tools in up to 60 days.

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