MIL 6.0 adds to an already impressive list of functions that have been field tested and field approved. New functionality includes bar/matrix code recognition and calibration modules, as well as a camera auto-focus tool. Additions and enhancements can be found in almost all modules, including those for image processing, gauging, blob analysis, and pattern matching.

Particularly noteworthy for those developing vision alignment, measurement and inspection applications in areas like semiconductor manufacturing is the increased speed, accuracy and robustness of MIL's pattern matching capabilities. MIL's pattern matching functionality uses an intelligent search and locate strategy to find predefined models at maximum speed within target images. Search speed for target models rotated by any angle (i.e. a full 360 degrees) is now up to 20 times faster. Translational accuracy is up to 1/40th of a pixel with a rotational accuracy of up to 1/10th of a degree.

While image capture, transfer and display functionality was available as ActiveX (OCX) controls with MIL 5.0, MIL 6.0 makes image processing and analysis functionality available as ActiveX (OCX) controls with the ActiveMIL bundle. Using ActiveX (OCX) controls in rapid application development environments means Windows-based applications can be created more quickly and easily.

Established in 1976, Matrox is a privately owned Canadian company based in Dorval, Quebec. The Matrox Imaging division designs, manufactures, markets and sells high-performance, PC-based vision/imaging hardware and software. Customers include OEMs, system integrators and professional users worldwide who build or retrofit machine vision, medical imaging, and image analysis systems. Products range from standard PCI frame grabbers to real-time, scalable, PCI vision processors; as well as application software development packages and interactive imaging tools.