Press Releases

X Marks the Spot: Matrox Imaging Announces Major Software Update With Enhanced Support For Classification Using Deep Learning

MIL X is the latest iteration of this vision library
MIL X is the latest iteration of this vision library, offering field-proven results and a 25-year-plus history of reliable performance.
MONTREAL, Quebec, 18 February 2020—Today, Matrox® Imaging is pleased to unveil Matrox Imaging Library (MIL) X, the latest name for its celebrated vision software, featuring two major updates. This field-proven software development kit (SDK) includes an extensive collection of tools for developing machine vision applications.
 
The latest MIL X service pack delivers a range of new features and functionality, including the training of deep neural networks for image-oriented classification; detection using image-oriented classification based on deep learning; a revamped plus augmented 3D display, processing, and analysis offer; and support for High-Dynamic-Range (HDR) imaging. A companion update also introduces many enhancements to the MIL CoPilot interactive environment including, most notably, support for training a deep neural network.
Graphs presented by MIL X to visualize the CNN training progress
Graphs presented by MIL X to visualize the CNN training progress.

Hands-on training and training-as-a-service options

The newest MIL X service pack expands the capabilities of its classification tools, which make use of deep learning technology—specifically convolutional neural networks (CNNs)—to analyze images of highly textured, naturally varying, and acceptably deformed goods. To perform inference, the CNN must first undergo training. MIL X provides the necessary infrastructure to build the required training dataset—including the labeling of images and augmenting the dataset with synthesized images—as well as monitoring and analyzing the training process. It supports different types of training, such as transfer learning and fine-tuning, all starting from one of the supplied pre-defined CNN architectures.
With the aim of catering to different user needs and constraints, this MIL X service pack now affords customers two options for CNN training. Users can opt to train a CNN on their own, or they can continue to engage Matrox Imaging’s team of vision experts to perform the training on the users’ behalf through Matrox Professional Services. For users with limited deep learning experience, Matrox Imaging-led training provides a way to jump-start the process of using a CNN for particular automated visual inspection applications, with the confidence of being assisted by a team of skilled practitioners.
MIL X’s detection approach generates maps
MIL X’s detection approach generates maps indicating the pre-established class and score for all image neighborhoods.

Coarse segmentation from classification using a CNN

MIL X’s image-oriented classification makes use of deep learning technology in two distinct approaches: a global approach that assigns images to classes and a detection approach—introduced in the new service pack—that maps image neighborhoods according to categories. The latter ultimately identifies and coarsely locates the presence of specific features or defects.
HDR tool
Illustrating HDR imaging registration, which combines images taken with short and long exposures and combines them into a single result image (on right).

HDR imaging within registration toolset

With the latest service pack, MIL X similarly expands the registration toolset, adding a new feature for performing HDR imaging. The HDR technique produces an image with a greater dynamic range of luminosity than what is possible in a conventional image. The resulting single image thus brings out detail in both the dark and bright areas that are not otherwise seen together.
MIL CoPilot environment—featured in MIL X—facilitates application prototyping and development
The MIL CoPilot environment—featured in MIL X—facilitates application prototyping and development.

Faster prototyping and development with MIL CoPilot

MIL X incorporates MIL CoPilot, the interactive environment for experimenting, prototyping, and generating code. A companion update to the newest service pack adds training and inference support for image-oriented classification using deep learning.
 
Serving as the interface for user-directed CNN training, MIL CoPilot lets users label and augment the required dataset, visually monitor the training process, and finally, view results in clear, concise tables.
 
A key benefit of MIL CoPilot is its ability to generate functional program code in any language supported by MIL. The program code can take the form of a command-line executable or dynamic link library (DLL). Users who opt for the DLL option benefit from code that is readily usable in their vision applications, further streamlining the development process.
“This latest release of MIL delivers a broad range of new functionality,” said Pierantonio Boriero, director of product management, Matrox Imaging. “With the expansion in classification capabilities, inclusion of HDR imaging, a makeover to its 3D functionality, and much more, MIL X continues to forge ahead as a premier SDK for machine vision application development.”
 
 

Availability

MIL X Service Pack 4 and the companion update to MIL CoPilot are available now in early access form through the software’s update service. Their official releases are slated for Q2 2020.