Launch of Aptiris: Autofocus imaging for dynamic machine vision

In many machine-vision applications, maintaining a constant working distance is not always possible. Variations in object height, movement, or system geometry can quickly reduce image quality when using fixed-focus optics. To address these challenges, The Imaging Source has introduced Aptiris - the new compact USB 3.1 autofocus camera series engineered to deliver consistently sharp imaging in dynamic environments.

Precision Autofocus for variable working distances
The Aptiris Series features software-driven one-push autofocus combined with a motorized M12 lens mount. This design enables the camera to automatically compensate for changing object distances, ensuring stable focus and repeatable image quality across inspection, measurement, and analytics tasks.

At launch, the series is available as prototype models with three high-performance CMOS sensors:

• onsemi AR0521 (5 MP): 2592 × 1944, 60 fps, rolling shutter
• Sony IMX568 (5 MP): 2448 × 2048, 60 fps, global shutter
• onsemi AR2020 (19.7 MP): 5120 × 3840, 19 fps, rolling shutter

These sensors provide a wide range of resolution and shutter options, enabling system designers to select the optimal configuration for their specific application requirements.

Engineered for easy system integration
Aptiris cameras are designed for straightforward integration into both embedded and PC-based vision systems. Support for USB3 Vision and UVC (USB Video Class) ensures broad compatibility with common development environments and vision software platforms.

Key integration features include:

• USB 3.1 (USB Type-C) interface with power over USB
• Autofocus stroke of 1.3 mm with 12.5 µm stepping resolution
• I/O trigger input
• Compact housing: 36 × 36 × 33.8 mm

Together, these features help reduce cabling complexity, simplify mechanical design, and accelerate system development.

Prototype availability and production roadmap
The initial Aptiris models are currently available in limited quantities as prototypes for selected customers and partners. This early-access phase allows integrators and OEMs to validate performance and integration workflows ahead of series production which is scheduled for Q2 2026.

Supporting next-generation vision applications
By combining modern USB 3.1 connectivity, flexible sensor options, and precise autofocus control, the Aptiris platform is designed to support next-generation automation and AI-enabled vision systems. Target applications include medical diagnostics, laboratory automation, warehouse and logistics systems, retail analytics, and compact embedded-vision platforms.

Momchil Binev, Senior Product Manager at The Imaging Source, explains: "With Aptiris, we set out to design a camera family that brings high-performance autofocus to the realities of modern machine-vision integration. Not every vision task allows for fixed optics or tightly controlled setups. Aptiris is designed to handle these real-world constraints while still offering the performance expected from high-end industrial imaging."

www.theimagingsource.com