Posted to News on 7th Dec 2009, 11:32
2D vision sensor offers smart camera functions
Sick UK is introducing the new Inspector I40 2D vision sensor that inspects products faster, with better definition, higher reliability detection and wider fields of view - while remaining outstanding value for money, according to Sick. The robust Inspector I40 offers improved data and image logging with what is claimed to be class-leading ease of use for a wide range of product, quality and labelling applications including packaging, small parts assembly and electronics production.
David Hannaby, Sick Vision Systems Product Manager, comments: "Smart camera performance level inspection capability is achieved for the new Inspector I40 by building on the best features of the Inspector I10 and I20 models. For example, the higher VGA resolution, image capture speeds up to 250Hz, the additional pattern match tool, more detailed results information and image storage allow us to solve many applications where previously we would have needed a smart camera.
"The benefit to the customer is lower-cost solutions that are easy to maintain on the production line; the wider field of view can mean less sensors are required. The I40 does not replace a 2D camera, as many more applications require a greater degree of inspection and integration into the production process."
Options and accessories
Powerful and easy to use, Inspector devices can be used as standard photoelectric sensors. Complete with a choice of integral lighting, in-situ interchangeable filters and lenses, fast high-capacity processing, Ethernet communications and rugged industrial IP67-protected metal housings, their competitive pricing enables the sensors to be specified by engineers needing to implement quality inspection within tight budgets.
Hannaby adds: "Robust small detail differentiation is available from the I40 even at high speeds with the integral pattern inspection tool. The choice of clear, red, green or blue lens ensures optimum detection for different product/colour combinations and the unique dome light helps eliminate error-inducing glossy surface reflections.
"Product traceability and quality inspection are enhanced by the greater image handling and storage capacities. While the I40 can buffer up to 30 images, it also downloads images via FTP, for unlimited capacity. Use of EtherNet/IP also facilitates PLC control and SCADA network integration."
Versatility
The Inspector I40 can be rapidly reconfigured to suit changing application needs. Users are able to exchange lenses to meet requirements for a wider field of view or for inspecting smaller objects at up to 1000mm, with corresponding variations in field of view between 550mm and 150mm. An excellent resolution is retained at high speed for accuracy and rapid image processing.
In addition, the Inspector I40 offers extended I/O functionality, enabling up to 32 reference objects to be selected for comparison with the object being inspected, and delivering up to 30 inspection results at once. It also facilitates rapid reconfiguring between different products and part types in a large manufacturing unit.
Individual items do not require identical positioning for inspection, as the software evaluates edges, contours, contrasts, greyscale values or pixels relative to a defined location feature in the reference image. The I40 can be used with or without a part presence trigger. Image capture and evaluation of multiple references occur as soon as an object enters the field of vision, without a trigger signal, thereby reducing non-capture errors.
Follow the link for more information about Sick's Inspector 2D vision sensors.
