The Heliotis Gen4 SDK allows Heliotis 3D sensors to be integrated into custom software and machine vision applications. Our new four-part tutorial series offers a concise introduction, demonstrating the key steps from installation to the first 3D measurement.
The series guides you through the installation of C4Utility, provides an overview of programming examples and documentation, demonstrates 3D data acquisition with HALCON, and explains firmware updates using the Heliotis Update Tool. Each tutorial combines a short video with a concise written guide, making it easy to reference the key steps later.
Part 1: Installing C4Utility
We begin with the installation of C4Utility, the software package for accessing Heliotis Gen4 devices from a Windows PC.
The tutorial covers the download and installation process, as well as the key components available. These include the GenTL Producer, the Heliotis Update Tool, programming examples, and the C4Handler Library. Finally, the Update Tool is used to verify that the connected device is recognized and ready for use with compatible firmware.
Go to tutorial: Installing C4Utility
Part 2: Programming Examples and Documentation
Where can you find the information needed for your own integration? Part two provides an overview of the programming examples and documentation installed with C4Utility.
We show where to find examples for environments such as HALCON or Python and explain the purpose of the Programmer Guides, Feature Description, Technical Notes, and Changelog. This helps you quickly find the right source of information for a specific development task.
Go to tutorial: Programming Examples and Documentation
Part 3: Acquiring 3D Data with HALCON
In the third part, we get practical. Using a provided HALCON example, we demonstrate the complete workflow of a simple 3D measurement.
The example connects HALCON to the device via the Heliotis GenTL Producer, sets basic parameters such as Scan Position and Scan Range, and starts the measurement via software trigger. The captured height data is then transferred to HALCON and displayed as a 3D surface.
Go to tutorial: Acquiring 3D Data with HALCON
Part 4: Updating Device Firmware
Finally, we show how to update the firmware of a Gen4 device using the Heliotis Update Tool.
We also explain how to determine the correct firmware version for the installed Gen4 SDK version. An IPKG package is used for regular updates. In contrast, a full device image is only required for recovery cases or when replacing the SD card.
Go to tutorial: Updating Device Firmware
Heliotis Learning Center
All four tutorials combine a short video with a written step-by-step guide. This allows you to follow the process in the video first and then quickly reference it during integration.
The new series is part of our growing Heliotis Learning Center, where we compile tutorials on our products, software tools, and industrial 3D metrology.
Heliotis AG