Machine Vision Sales Fell in Q1

Machine vision sales in North America fell 2 percent compared with the first quarter of 2011, according to new statistics from AIA, the industry’s trade group.

Declining sales of complete vision systems, which make up the largest volumes in the North American market, were the primary cause. Sales of machine vision components gained 2 percent, however, led by strong growth in vision software (up 26 percent), lighting products (up 11 percent) and imaging boards (up 7 percent).

Optics sales were up 1 percent in the first quarter, while smart camera sales rose 4 percent.

“We are not surprised by the slight overall decline in growth,” said AIA President Jeff Burnstein. “First quarter 2011 sales were exceptionally robust, occurring during the height of the market recovery. Though the market has cooled down a bit, the long-term growth trend remains strong.”

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