Siemens SIMATIC S7-1500 Manual page 18

Product overview
3.4 Functions
Principle of operation
The TM NPU enables evaluation of input data, such as video and process data, by neural
networks.
The data of connected cameras and the data from the user program of the CPU is processed
with a high data throughput/high data rate through neural networks in the TM NPU. The
TM NPU transfers the result of the processing operation to the CPU via the backplane bus. The
CPU then allows further evaluation to take place in the user program.
A typical area of application is a visual quality check in production plants.
Advantages
The advantages at a glance:
• Lower programming and engineering workload
• Implementation of flexible and precise production processes
• Streamlined collaboration between IT (DataScience) and OT (Automation)
• Cost-effective solution because everything is supplied by SIEMENS
• Availability of tailored tool chains for the AI side
• Efficient solutions thanks to low costs
• Experience-based solutions that would be difficult to implement with conventional image
processing algorithms
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Technology Module TM NPU
Equipment Manual, 07/2023, A5E46384784-AC