SICK Automation and Neadvance collaborated to engineer the ideal automation solution for a motor manufacturer in the Czech Republic. The manufacturer needed to implement an automated step in its receiving department to facilitate robotic picking of palletised items and their subsequent transfer to conveyors.
The central element of the solution is the use of articulated robots combined with the SICK Visionary-T 3D camera. The manufacturer’s robot had to be automated to the point where it could independently and consistently recognise the positon of individual parcels and packaging units on a delivered pallet and reliably grip them for transfer. The Visionary-T CX with 3D snapshot technology was selected. Its streaming camera is able to supply the robot controller with three-dimensional images in the form of 3D point clouds.
The device uses 3D time-of-flight technology to generate the images. This technology, based on light being emitted from a built-in light source, measures tiny time differences in the reflection from an object’s surface back to the camera. The time differences help calculate the distance to the reflective surface and using special Neadvance-developed algorithms, convert them into a three dimensional representation. The camera’s high frame rate allows this process to be done up to 50 times a second.
Another advantage of this technology is the powerful active lighting system integrated into the camera. It illuminates the surroundings enabling the camera to detect objects with very low reflection properties and operate in complete darkness.
Into action
Within the manufacturer’s goods receiving system, the Visionary-T CX is attached to the articulated joint of the robot, continuously moving with it and acting as an ‘eye’. In its daily operations the Visionary-T CX delivers the 3D point clouds and using the Neadvance algorithms based on 3D shape analysis, determines the exact position of crates and cardboard boxes. The robot then moves its gripping device to the corresponding coordinates, picks the item and places it on a conveyor. To grasp the next crate, the process is repeated.
The solution has proved its reliability and efficiency to such an extent that the OEM is planning to implement it in its other plants. The project’s general contractor and system integrator were so impressed with the Visionary-T CX 3D snapshot technology and time-of-flight principle, that they will be integrating it as standard in similar processes.
Distance sensor for confined spaces ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The O6D100 from ifm has been designed as a powerful all-rounder for typical applications in object detection, distance measurement and positioning.
Read more...SICK earns Great Place To Work certification SICK Automation Southern Africa
News
Sensor specialist SICK South Africa has been awarded Great Place to Work certification recognising the positive working environment and strong workplace culture it has developed.
Read more...Long-range laser distance measuring sensor Vepac Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
The MS-100A is a long-range laser distance measuring sensor with a range of 150 to 1000 mm. This sensor excels in applications requiring extended measurement capabilities, such as quality control and logistics.
Read more...Listening for damage to wind turbines
Sensors & Transducers
The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits, working in concert with the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems, has developed a solution that can be used to identify cracks and breakage inside wind turbine blades remotely at an early stage.
Read more...Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.
Read more...Enhancing efficiency and reliability in the energy sector VEGA Controls SA
Sensors & Transducers
VEGA offers practical, reliable solutions through specialised measuring instruments and deep industry know-how, all tailored to help energy companies keep costs under control while meeting strict regulatory standards.
Read more...Condition monitoring for hydroelectric plants ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The energy company Compagnia Valdostana delle Acque generates electricity in the region’s 32 hydroelectric power plants with a total capacity of over 900 MW. Vibration sensors from ifm monitor the maintenance requirements of the turbines and power generators at all times.
Read more...Precision sensing for water treatment ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
ifm electronic has introduced two next-generation sensors designed for South Africa’s bulk and wastewater sector, engineered to withstand harsh environments and deliver long-term reliability.
Read more...The next generation of inductive scanning encoder solutions ATI Systems
Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
With the launch of the ECI 1122 and EQI 1134 rotary encoders, positioning specialist, HEIDENHAIN has introduced a new benchmark in inductive scanning technology that raises the bar for motion control and precision automation.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version