Why is embedded vision still so complicated?

You pick an image sensor that fits your project. You choose an established CPU board. But somehow, it still doesn’t work together without hassle.

Why? Because embedded vision integration isn’t standardized. Cables don’t fit. Connectors don’t match. And “compatible” often just means: in theory.

That’s exactly why we developed VC MIPI® Bricks, a modular system based on the MIPI CSI-2 interface, designed to eliminate the typical integration issues caused by proprietary or incompatible connections.

In my latest video, I talk about exactly that: how VC MIPI® Bricks is designed to address the integration gaps that hold back embedded vision projects.

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VC MIPI® Bricks – because “compatible” isn’t always enough

VC MIPI® Bricks is more than a new product in our portfolio. It’s a structured system that targets the typical weaknesses in embedded vision projects, and comprises all elements needed for successful and seamless integration:

VC MIPI® Camera Modules

Flexibility starts with free sensor choices.

That’s why VC MIPI® Bricks gives you access to more than 50 MIPI cameras, with global or rolling shutter, color or monochrome image sensors, and a wide range of resolutions and sensitivity levels. 

All modules feature industrial-grade quality and long term availability. 

Just as important: The drivers are provided in source code, readily adapted to many processor platforms from NXP, NVIDIA, the Raspberry Pi series and many other ARM-based platforms. Because even the best sensor is useless if you spend weeks trying to make it work. 

VC MIPI® Accessories & add-ons

Most challenges in embedded vision projects don’t start with the camera, they happen in between: in the connection, the cables. That’s where our accessories make the difference. We offer flexible and reliable integration with a wide range of components, from FPC and coaxial cables for common CPU boards, to drivers, lens holders, and add-on boards for trigger signals or FPGA-based image preprocessing. We also adapt our cables and accessories to individual requirements.

Just as important: The entire system is built around the MIPI CSI-2 interface, for fewer surprises during integration and faster, trouble-free development.

VC MIPI® Custom Solutions with NOTAVIS

Our partner NOTAVIS, part of the VC Group, extends the Bricks concept with customer-specific adaptations – whether it’s custom board layouts, specific sensor integration, mechanics, or optical alignment.

The key: All custom solutions are based on the same proven system architecture, with no isolated hacks and just clean implementation tailored to your application. 

From components to ready-to-use systems 

VC MIPI® Bricks is not about adding parts.

It’s about removing friction, and giving engineers a reliable foundation they can build on.

When your components connect seamlessly, development becomes easier, faster and reliable, saving time and cost. 

That’s been my experience – and it’s the reason we built VC MIPI Bricks® the way we did.

See VC MIPI® Bricks live in Boston

We’ll showcase the full VC MIPI® Bricks concept at the Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston:

 🗓️ April 30 – May 1, 2025

📍 Booth #452

My colleagues Endre and Sven will walk you through the system – including a live demo featuring the phyBOARD for VC MIPI® development kit from PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH , powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Plus Processor. It supports all VC MIPI® Camera Modules and shows how the VC MIPI® Bricks system adapts to real-world embedded vision challenges – modular, scalable, and ready for your projects.  

How do you handle integration gaps in your projects? Will you give VC MIPI Bricks a try for your next project? I’m looking forward to hear your thoughts!