Sick expands Mini series of registration sensors

Joining the already-successful Sick Mini sensors are the KTM Prime Inox for hygienic environments, the CSM colour and LUTM luminescence detection sensors. Each has an excellent switching frequency and delivers high machine productivity for a wide range of matt and glossy materials.

David Hannaby, Sick's Product Manager for Presence Detection, explains: "Each Sick Mini packs a mighty punch into a small sensor to be able to detect contrast, colour or luminescence reliably in even the most difficult circumstances. The three-colour LED and smart ASIC onboard intelligence ensure that markings and colours will register despite being low-contrast, badly printed or on reflective materials such as foils that dazzle less able sensors."

With a housing measuring just 21 x 12 x 31.5mm, the Mini sensors can be mounted virtually anywhere. They are quick and easy to configure on the production line, with an onboard teach-in function for both static and dynamic modes. The IO-Link connectivity enables extended remote diagnostics and means format changes can be handled quickly and easily by retrieving the previous parameter settings from the control system's memory.

David Hannaby adds: "The sensors' ability to see through reflected glare means that for the sensor set-up on the production line, the engineer does not have to fiddle with complex angles to minimise reflection while getting optimum signals. Even undulating surfaces or fluttering material can be accommodated."

CSM colour sensor

The registration Mini range is also expanding to incorporate the CSM for detection, checking and sorting of objects according to colour. The CSM offers a wide colour sensing spectrum and enables up to eight colours to be taught-in.

Where colour is used for mark detection, product checking or sorting - for example, for work cycle synchronisation at bag forming, filling and sealing machines - the CSM offers wide colour sensing capability.

LUTM luminescence sensor

With the same IP67 housing, the LUTM luminescence sensor can be relied on to detect fluorescent marks even when the luminescence factor is low and there is high glare. It is suitable for detecting non-visible registration and print marks, and for label and packaging security applications.

KTM Prime Inox hygienic sensor

The Sick KTM Prime Inox hygienic sensor delivers high-speed, reliable detection of contrast and alignment marks, even where there are low contrast levels or high gloss surfaces, so it is suitable for a wide range of packaging, bottling and label printing applications.

With durable IP67 or IP69 316L stainless steel housings, the KTM Prime Inox has an operating temperature range of -30 to +75degC. It is suitable for hygienic pharmaceutical and food/beverage manufacturing applications where cold or hot processing conditions occur, or with hot wash-down systems.

KTM contrast sensors

The original Sick KTM contrast sensors are available in two models: the Core is designed for base-level applications with a single white LED signal emitter, while the KTM Prime, with three RBG LEDs, offers additional features.

All the new Mini registration sensors use Sick's new ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) technology that has a much higher dynamic signal reception range. This capability prevents the sensor from being swamped by highly-reflected light and can also differentiate low-contrast marks.

Follow the link for more information about the Sick Mini series of sensors.