True colour recognition controller offers high speed evaluation

Micro-Epsilon has extended its true-colour recognition CFO series with a new controller model. The new colorSENSOR CFO250 controller offers a raw measurement data output up to 500 Hz.

With a wide range of sensor heads to choose from, Micro-Epsilon says the CFO250 is particularly suitable for high speed processes such as the monitoring of mixing processes (granulates and powders) and in-quality inspection in filling plants.

The colorSENSOR CFO250 true colour controller performs colour evaluations at very high speeds (measuring rates) of up to 30 kHz. In the process, taught colours are compared with the current measurement value, controllers are internally evaluated (colour detected/not detected) and output via the digital switching outputs.

In addition to the evaluated result, the unevaluated raw data can also be provided in Lab or XYZ colour spaces at up to 500 Hz via UDP, RS232 or USB interface. Using a Micro-Epsilon-specific simplified binary 3-byte protocol, the data can be transferred directly to a PLC for further processing.

For applications where a pure OK/NOK evaluation is insufficient, but at the same time there is a need to regulate high speed processes, the CFO250 offers new possibilities in evaluation and further processing. For example, when filling powders, paints or other similar products, it must be ensured that the contents have not been contaminated.

The fast raw measurement data output of the Lab or XYZ colour space, at up to 500 Hz, offers users advantages in terms of the monitoring of the mixing processes such as in granulate and powder production where changes in the ratio of ingredients can quickly impact the final colour desired.

Edge and level triggers

Output of measurement data can be continuous or on-demand (trigger-based). A demand-controlled output via trigger functions enables a reduction in data volumes and always provides valid measurement values. Two options are available for this: an edge trigger that determines how many measurements are made and transmitted after a trigger event; with a level trigger, measurement data is transmitted as long as a corresponding level (for example, a 5V signal) is present at the input.

The new trigger functions can be set up via the intuitive web interface. Edge and level triggering are selected in the ‘Outputs’ section. The web interface allows teach-in of 254 colour groups with 320 colours in total. One function automatically adapts the illumination, averaging and signal amplification to the current measurement situation.

Micro-Epsilon’s freely downloadable sensorTOOL software can be used to make recordings up to 500 Hz using the CFO250.