• MVTec MERLIC enables users to solve complex machine vision tasks quickly and intuitively – even without programming skills • Continuation of strategic development: new version strengthens process reliability across the entire machine vision application

With MVTec MERLIC, MVTec Software GmbH (www.mvtec.com) offers a powerful machine vision software that allows even beginners to handle sophisticated machine vision tasks. MERLIC provides a variety of methods, including deep-learning-based technologies, numerous interfaces to different PLCs, and an intuitive user interface. The new version, MERLIC 5.8, which will be available from October 16, now also includes functions that go beyond pure image processing. These new features support users in increasing the process reliability of their entire machine vision application.

"Due to the semi-annual release cycle of MERLIC we can quickly deliver improvements and enhancements to our customers. At present, our strategic focus is on improving workflows and process reliability. For example, as a customer, I always want to achieve maximum speed. However, if the speed is set too high, image acquisition errors may occur. MERLIC now provides users with clear notifications and supports them to achieve optimal system performance quickly and easily," explains Ulf Schulmeyer, Product Manager MERLIC at MVTec.

The new version also optimizes recipe management. It now gives users a comprehensive overview of key recipe information, improving clarity and usability. In addition to various enhancements of existing image processing methods, MERLIC 5.8 also introduces the communication plug-in "Siemens IE Databus." This enables seamless connectivity with the Siemens Industrial Edge (IE) platform.

Improved process stability through enhanced error handling
MERLIC 5.8 improves process reliability of the entire machine vision application by extending the Image Source Manager (ISM) with advanced error detection. It now monitors for missed trigger signals, detects when images are dropped or when the device connection is lost. Depending on the used trigger and processing mode, MERLIC will now handle these events accordingly. Users benefit from higher system stability, early identification of acquisition issues, and more consistent performance across their machine vision applications.

Centralized recipe information for easier setup and deployment
MERLIC 5.8 makes it easier to set up and manage machine vision applications through a redesigned "Recipes" tab in the MERLIC Runtime Environment Setup. Users now have quick access to detailed recipe information, including image sources, parameters, results, and dependencies such as files or custom tools. With everything available in one place, users can configure applications more easily and deploy them on other systems without missing components. New options for setting default recipes, removing unused ones, and preserving window geometry further streamline handling.

Improved visualization of recipe management
MERLIC 5.8 strengthens the new "Recipes" tab in the Runtime Environment Setup with improved error handling and performance. The software now validates additional error cases, such as missing files, and displays issues directly at the affected component together with hints for possible solutions. This makes error detection and handling more straightforward than before. At the same time, internal improvements speed up recipe loading and importing, while providing a stable foundation for future deployment-related enhancements.

New Communication Plug-in "Siemens IE Databus"
MERLIC 5.8 introduces a new communication plug-in for the Siemens IE Databus, enabling seamless connection to the Siemens Industrial Edge (IE) platform. With the Industrial Edge Connector apps, such as the "SIMATIC S7 Connector," MERLIC can now communicate directly with PLCs and other hardware. The plug-in uses the Industrial Edge "Databus" app for communication and supports all Connector apps based on the "Industrial Edge Common Databus Payload Format" API. This integration simplifies connecting MERLIC applications to Siemens ecosystems and broadens deployment options.

Faster and easier remote connections for MERLIC Frontend
MERLIC 5.8 makes connecting a MERLIC Frontend to a remote server both simpler and quicker. Instead of relying on command-line input, users can now open a connection dialog directly in the graphical interface to select the desired server. MERLIC automatically detects available servers on the network and remembers recently used hosts, so connections can be established in just a few clicks. This streamlines setup in distributed applications, saving time while reducing complexity.


About MVTec Software GmbH
MVTec is a leading manufacturer of standard software for machine vision. MVTec products are used in a wide range of industries, such as semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, battery production, agriculture and food, as well as logistics. They enable applications like surface inspection, optical quality control, robot guidance, identification, measurement, classification, and more. By providing modern technologies such as 3D vision, deep learning, and embedded vision, software by MVTec also enables new automation solutions for the Industrial Internet of Things aka Industry 4.0. With locations in Germany, the USA, France, Benelux, Spain, China, Taiwan and South Korea as well as an established network of international distributors, MVTec is represented in more than 35 countries worldwide. www.mvtec.com