Sensors & Transducers


Colour discrimination sensor now offers analog output

March 2001 Sensors & Transducers

Omron has introduced an analog output version of its E3MC RGB colour sensor. Able to accurately discriminate not just different colours but also shades of the same colour, the sensor provides three separate analog outputs (0-10 V) for the three primary colours of red, green and blue, from which the actual colour detected can be deduced. The sensor discriminates colour without being influenced by changes in ambient temperature, brightness or positioning of sensing objects.

The analog colour sensor is ideally suited to quality control tasks and manufacturing processes where colour is a crucial element. The analog output provides the control system with both verification that the detected colour is within tolerance, and with a realtime indication of potential problems as colour drifts towards the limits of tolerance and beyond. This gives users an effective tool for continuous process improvement and pre-emptive maintenance.

The E3MC detects colours by making use of the fact that the reflection ratio of a primary colour reflected by an object varies with the chromaticity of the object. By using a multilayer polarised filter, the E3MC emits red, green and blue light on a single optical axis. The RGB content of the received light is processed on board the sensor to determine the level of each output and thus discriminate the colour of the object. A monitor photodiode compensates for any LED output variation that might be caused by temperature change.

Options for the analogue E3MC RGB sensors include models with built-in amplifiers for long distance setting, and versions with fibre-optic heads for tiny spot sensing. The sensing distance for the built-in amplifier version is specified at 60 mm, and the device will tolerate a ±10 mm variation in the sensing surface, thus assuring stable detection. The fibre-optic variant with the standard head offers a 20 mm sensing distance with a ±4 mm threshold, although other fibre types are available with different spot diameters and sensing distances. All models are protected to IP66 for reliable operation in the most arduous of environments.

Yelland Control

(011) 874 7770

[email protected]





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

The car of the future listens
Sensors & Transducers
The perception of external sounds in cars has been lacking, even in automated driving. That is why Fraunhofer IDMT-HSA is researching the integration of acoustic sensor technology in its KI4BoardNet project with the Hearing Car.

Read more...
Telco Sensors for blocked or empty chute detection
Sensors & Transducers
In most industries there is a problem with photoelectric sensors as highly contaminated environments make it difficult to operate and sense reliably. Telco Sensors overcomes this through its powerful high-performance infrared sensors that ensure penetration of harsh pollution to guarantee reliable detection.

Read more...
High-performance LineScan camera
Sensors & Transducers
Lynred, a global leader in infrared imaging technologies, has launched its next-generation SWIR LineScan camera and sensor, specifically designed for the inspection of silicon wafers, solar panels and waste management.

Read more...
Online monitoring solution optimises asset performance across
SKF South Africa Sensors & Transducers
SKF’s sales, service and management teams has joined forces to deliver an advanced, integrated online monitoring solution for a key customer in Tunisia, operating nine mines, five plants and eleven production lines.

Read more...
OMRON launches new non-contact
Sensors & Transducers
OMRON has unveiled its latest innovation in non-contact safety door switches, the D40A-2, which is designed to enhance workplace safety and streamline machinery operations.

Read more...
Vibration monitoring in three axes
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers
Machine vibrations are important indicators when it comes to assessing the current condition of a machine. ifm’s new and smart IO-Link vibration sensor helps to implement a simple and scalable condition monitoring approach using but a single device.

Read more...
Smart solutions for weighing in hazardous milling zones
Sensors & Transducers
Minebea Intec supplies highly accurate weighing and inspection solutions that enable milling companies to organise their processes safely, efficiently and compliantly - even in hazardous areas.

Read more...
Optimise sludge treatment and reduce operational costs
Sensors & Transducers
The Endress+Hauser inline measuring devices, the Proline Teqwave MW 300 and the Proline Teqwave MW 500, determine the total solids content of wastewater directly through microwave transmission. This is considerably less time consuming than the process of determining total solids content in a laboratory.

Read more...
Family of analysers for smart and efficient chlorine measurement
ABB South Africa Sensors & Transducers
ABB has launched ChloroStar, a family of sensors, transmitters and accessories for accurate and reliable chlorine measurement and analysis that enable users in the water, wastewater and other industries to control chlorine more efficiently, enhancing treatment and increasing process uptime.

Read more...
Leading the way with Level 9 PDS implementation
Sensors & Transducers
Applying a Level 9 Proximity Detection System (PDS) to a mining operation is as much about changes in behaviour as it is about technical solutions, according to Pieter Wolfaardt from Apex, Booyco Electronics’ training partner of choice.

Read more...









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.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved