Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI) is excited to announce the launch of the Vision Accelerator at its headquarters in Limerick, Ireland. This initiative builds on DMI's commitment to Cognitive Manufacturing and the work of the Visual Cognitive Manufacturing Group (VCMG).

This leading-edge vision technology facility, to be called the Vision Accelerator, will be instrumental in supporting manufacturers in developing, understanding, and deploying machine vision technologies in the manufacturing sector. Work on the new facility has begun and is scheduled to be completed in Summer 2025.

The Vision Accelerator will be equipped with the latest advancements in machine vision from innovators and global technology leaders and will be staffed by a dedicated team of experts. It will offer companies the tools and resources to overcome the challenges of adopting these transformative technologies in an open, collaborative environment. For proprietary projects, restricted areas will be available for companies to work in a private environment while maintaining access to expertise and equipment.

A highlight of the Vision Accelerator is its comprehensive technology exemplar area, featuring a wide range of machine vision solutions, including digital microscopes, smart vision sensors, traditional and AI-driven vision systems, advanced optics, lighting, and vision-guided robotics for assembly.

This new facility will be a valuable resource for companies seeking to adopt or expand their use of machine vision in manufacturing. Open to manufacturers and machine builders worldwide, the Vision Accelerator will serve as a testing and incubation hub, enabling businesses to explore and implement machine vision solutions in their automation processes.

Combined with DMI's Workforce of the Future (WF) Centre of Excellence and its advanced digital factory, the Vision Accelerator allows DMI to collaborate with clients and witness the tangible benefits of cognitive manufacturing and digital transformation in real-world production environments, while keeping people at the centre of the process.

The Vision Accelerator, a significant investment supported by the Government of Ireland, through IDA Ireland, underscores the critical role of machine vision in shaping the future of Irish manufacturing.

Tommy Brennan, Cognitive Manufacturing Manager at DMI, said: “This initiative marks a significant step forward in Ireland’s digital manufacturing journey. The Vision Accelerator will also focus on training and upskilling talent, ensuring that Ireland remains a leader in the integration of machine vision technology across sectors, including food and beverage, life sciences, and technology. We eagerly anticipate the innovation and advancements that will emerge from this world-class facility for Irish-based manufacturing.”

Rachel Shelly, Global Head of Life Sciences and Food at IDA Ireland, said: "IDA Ireland is delighted that Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI) are launching their new Vision Accelerator. By supporting organizations to develop, understand, and deploy machine vision technologies, this initiative from DMI will significantly impact manufacturing in Ireland and beyond. DMI is fulfilling its mission of enabling manufacturers to access, adopt, and accelerate new digital technologies that drive future competitiveness."

The Vision Accelerator is scheduled to be open for business in Summer 2025. To be part of this development and gain access to many of the other opportunities DMI offer in the Cognitive Manufacturing space, connect with the VCMG (Visual Cognitive Manufacturing Group) at vcmg@dmireland.org or connect with us here.

‍