Ann Arbor, MI--According to the Automated Imaging Association (AIA), sales for machine vision grew 34% in North America in the first quarter (Q1) of 2011--the fifth straight quarter of double-digit growth according to AIA’s Quarterly Machine Vision Sales Tracking Report. The AIA report recorded robust sales across almost all major machine vision supplier markets, including cameras, lighting, optics, software, application-specific machine vision systems, and smart cameras.

The report also found a continuation of widespread optimism in the industry. Approximately one-half of all companies submitting data for the report expect sales to improve over Q1 2011 levels during the next six months. Of the remaining companies, most anticipate sales comparable to Q1 2011 results. Only 8% of the companies expect sales to decrease.

"The continuation of double-digit growth shows the strength of the machine vision market in North America," said Jeff Burnstein, AIA president. Paul Kellett, AIA’s director of market analysis, added, "Large businesses continue to invest in equipment that boosts productivity, including machine vision systems. Expansion in the manufacturing sector is expected to continue despite some momentary softening and spur additional investment in machine vision software and equipment."

Founded in 1984 to advance the understanding and use of imaging and vision technologies and to drive global expansion and growth through education and promotion, AIA now represents over 300 machine vision suppliers, system integrators, users, researchers, and consulting firms from 30 countries. In addition to the annual study, AIA is best known for the following imaging-related trade conferences: The Vision Show (May 8-10, 2012 in Boston, MA) and the annual AIA Business Conference (January 18-20, 2012 in Orlando, FL).

SOURCE: AIA; www.machinevisiononline.org