• Automation
• Computer Aided Design
• Computer Vision
• Flexible Manufacturing
• Machine Vision
• Model Based Definition
• Reconfigurable Manufacturing

The increasing dynamism and disruptive changes in market demands in recent years have driven the need for more advanced and adaptable industrial Vision Inspection Systems (VIS). These systems must not only keep pace with rapid technological advancements but also respond to the evolving requirements of Next
generation manufacturing, characterized by small batches and rapid, significant production variability. Major progress in both hardware and software has ushered in a new phase of growth within the industrial VIS domain, enabling the development of flexible and reconfigurable systems. However, despite these advancements, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) still face considerable challenges in reconfiguring these systems, as these tasks remain time-consuming and highly specialized. This doctoral research proposes a novel conceptual framework and reference architecture to address these challenges. Drawing insights from the broader manufacturing sector, this work outlines the essential technical requirements for the future evolution of VIS. These include (1) fully integrated hardware and software solutions that enable flexibility and reconfigurability, (2) digital thread-driven, 3D model-based systems that facilitate low/no-code programming. Following an engineering design approach, the thesis traces the process from requirements to system specifications and, as a supplementary contribution, articulates the value propositions of these novel plug & produce systems by mapping the main stakeholders. The findings of this research aim to lay the groundwork for future advancements in the domain, positioning Next-generation VIS as a pivotal milestone in the evolution toward greater agility and adaptability in the history of industrial VIS.