ZEN core

AI-driven analysis for industrial microscopy

From image acquisition to microscopic analysis

With our microscopy software ZEISS ZEN core, you can acquire images, analyze samples, and integrate all your data into a unified ecosystem for connected microscopy. AI-based algorithms can be applied effortlessly, with no programming required, throughout the entire workflow. It covers the complete microscope portfolio, operating both light and electron microscopes from ZEISS for a connected research environment. Capture images and correlate results across different microscopes to unlock new possibilities in industrial microscopy, boosting performance and productivity through integrated AI tools. For image processing and analysis, it even goes beyond ZEISS systems and offers smart tool kits that can be used in combination with any third-party microscope. AI-based software, such as ZEISS ZEN core, is the key to automated, fast, reliable, scalable and, above all, reproducible results.

Discover our Connected Microscopy portfolio

The facets of industrial image processing

For industrial image processing, 2D and 3D images are first divided into different areas (image segmentation), which are then analyzed and provide important information. Industrial image processing is used for defect detection, structure and material analysis and also provides other data that is essential for quality control and assurance. If image processing is carried out manually in industrial applications, a great deal of experience and time is required for segmentation and analysis of the images. The solution: Artificial intelligence. Scalable, reliable and reproducible results can be achieved with automated image analysis. ZEISS ZEN core offers you exactly these advantages - and much more.

Deep learning for automated analyses

Deep learning is used to train an artificial intelligence that performs image segmentation and analysis of 2D and 3D images in an automated manner, quickly and with reliable results.

Learn more

Intelligent material analysis

Complex analyses are required to examine the material properties and structure of an object. With ZEN core, complex analyses can be carried out easily and step-by-step based on a workflow.

Learn more

Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section

Image analysis

Image segmentation of an IC (integrated controller) in cross-section

In an industrial environment, image analysis is usually carried out in the form of image segmentation of microscopic images. To do this, the image is divided into several areas that are separated from each other. These areas and the boundaries between the different areas are analyzed, e.g. to identify defects and ensure product quality. Depending on the object, however, special cases must be taken into account. Connected areas are only relevant above a certain size and shape, for example, or it is important how far apart the areas are. This makes manual analysis very complex and time-consuming. Image processing software is used here, replacing manual analysis with an automated process. This reduces user influence and minimizes the time required to obtain information. Image analysis can work in connectivity with gray value analysis (thresholding) or via AI-based models.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) comprises automation and machine learning. Human thinking and learning is imitated by a computer. In industry, AI models are trained to recognize structures, defects and features and to solve complex problems graphically on their own.

ZEISS uses AI for image segmentation and holistic image analysis. By simply training a model using ZEISS ZEN core, segmentation and classification can be performed automatically for one or more images. This makes routine work more efficient, user-independent and saves time and costs.

Package contents:

Grain size analysis: Determination of grain sizes using various treatment types according to international standards
Planimetric method: Automatic reconstruction of grain boundaries (single grain measurement and determination of grain size distribution)
Line cut method: Semi-automatic measurement with cutting line patterns
Comparison method: Manual evaluation with reference series
Measurement according to the following standards: DIN EN ISO 643:2020 ASTM E 112-13 Plate I - IV; ASTM E 1382-97 GB/T 6394 2017

Cast iron analysis: Analysis of the shape, size and distribution of graphite particles in cast iron
Shape and size distribution in area percentage (optional: graphite arrangement with reference series)
Standard provided: DIN EN ISO 945 # 2019
Additional manual reclassification of phases

Multiphase analysis: Automated measurement of particle size and area in multiphase samples and evaluation of porosity
Comparison of reference series: Comparison of micrographs with standardized or user-defined reference series
Comparison with one, two, four or eight reference series images in one view with overlay option of image and chart for direct comparison:
Grains: DIN EN ISO 643:2012 ASTM E 112-13 Plate I - IV; GB/T6394 2002
Non-metallic inclusions (NMI): ISO 4967:2013; GB-10561 EN 10247:2007, ASTM E 45:2013; DIN 50602:1987
Graphite: EN ISO 945-1: 2008 + Cor. 1: 2010
Creation of a reference series: Functionality for the generation of customer-specific reference series

Coating thickness measurement: Automated or interactive measurement of the thickness of different layers
Standards provided: ASTM B 487 - 2007, DIN EN ISO 1463 - 2004

AI-enabled - pre-trained models can be executed to evaluate data. The models cannot be created or modified - the AI Toolkit is required for these tasks; a subscription to APEER ML is required for models based on deep learning.
Toolkit for 2D image analysis by creating automatic measurement programs, including advanced processing functions
Complete AI application package, including integrated training interfaces:

ZEN Intellesis segmentation: Automated image segmentation via machine learning algorithms
ZEN Intellesis object classification: Automatic object classification of segmented and analyzed images using machine learning algorithms
ZEN Intellesis AI noise reduction: AI-assisted noise reduction with Noise-2-Void algorithms
Macro environment: Programming customer-specific macros with Python
API: Control of ZEN core via API interface (service of the ZEISS programming team)
Traceability and accountability of workflows (prerequisite for compliance with 21 CFR Part 11)
Audit trail
SQL-based image database

Central database solution
Intelligent data management
Unlimited integrated user and access management without additional costs

Questions about ZEN core

Do you have any questions or would you like individual advice? Get in touch with our ZEISS ZEN core experts!

Try out ZEN core

Simply register and test ZEN core free of charge - without any contractual obligation. Get to know our image analysis and machine learning tools in up to 60 days.

Form is loading...