Collaborative Innovation Empowering Singapore’s SMEs

In Singapore’s competitive tech landscape, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often face significant challenges in advancing their research and development (R&D) capabilities. One such company recently found success in developing cutting-edge 3D vision technology, thanks to a collaborative partnership facilitated by the Technology for Enterprise Capability Upgrading (T-Up) programme, led by A*STAR.

The challenge was to create a 3D camera system that could significantly improve the precision and functionality of robotic pick-and-place systems. These robots, commonly used in industries like warehousing, logistics, and manufacturing, rely on highly accurate vision systems to identify, pick up, and move objects. However, the initial version of the company’s system only generated raw point cloud data, which was difficult to process for real-time applications.

To tackle this challenge, A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) seconded a specialist, Alvin Tan, to assist the company. Alvin’s role was instrumental in refining the technology and ensuring seamless interaction between the vision system and the robots. His expertise helped improve data accuracy and efficiency, allowing the 3D cameras to meet diverse client needs.

The development of the 3D Fringe Projection System was a significant milestone in this project. Sunny Tan, a final-year undergraduate from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), was attached to the project as part of SIT’s Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP).

Under Alvin’s mentorship, Sunny played a pivotal role in integrating the 3D imaging system with a collaborative robot for a demonstration of its capabilities. The system uses light projection to capture detailed 3D images of objects, allowing for precise measurements—a crucial requirement for robotics applications.

This solution wasn’t just about integrating hardware but also about building software to process the data efficiently. Through collaborative R&D, the team successfully demonstrated how point cloud mapping, paired with advanced image processing, could enhance robotic operations. The combination of hardware and software allowed for seamless execution of tasks such as picking and placing objects with greater accuracy and speed.

The project employed DLP Structured Light technology, an advanced method combining an integrated camera and lens setup, making it ideal for the robots in question. This technology is poised to enhance productivity in industries that rely heavily on automation and robotics.

Sunny reflected on his experience, saying, “The IWSP provided me with extensive hands-on knowledge in machine vision, image processing, and AI. I also gained valuable insights into emerging 3D imaging technologies and developed strong project management skills.”

Thanks to this collaboration, the company showcased their 3D vision technology at the Industrial Transformation Asia Pacific (ITAP) trade show in 2022, even though the product was still in development. The demonstration generated significant interest from potential partners and clients, leading to key partnerships and a deeper focus on 3D vision innovation.

The success didn’t stop there. With new expertise in 3D vision products, the company established closer collaborations with major industry players, contributing to increased revenue by 2023.

Looking ahead, the company is finalising plans to commercialise its 3D vision technology. They are also working on a new project – the “1 Shot 3D Confocal Microscope” – which aims to address challenges in the semiconductor industry.

Reflecting on the impact of the T-Up programme, the company’s Managing Director emphasised the importance of balancing R&D efforts with commercial viability. While SMEs often face limitations in dedicating resources to R&D, initiatives like T-Up offer valuable support, enabling companies to stay competitive by accessing new technologies and expertise.

This partnership demonstrates how collaborations between SMEs and research institutions can foster innovation, helping companies overcome technological gaps and drive industry advancements. Such projects highlight how government-backed initiatives like T-Up help businesses scale technology and stay competitive globally.