Compact and certified
August 2008
Sensors & Transducers
KT3/IO-Link is the new compact and communication-enabled contrast scanner from SICK. The small housing allows the sensor to be mounted in very limited spaces, for example in a pharmaceutical packaging plant or bag forming, filling and sealing machines. As a result of its RBG diode, the KT3/IO-Link detects all common contrasts with a high level of reliability – and, with dazzle adaptation, even on strongly reflective target objects.
For end-users the KT3/IO-Link offers flexibility, process reliability and availability
Its highlight, however, is the IO Link interface. It permits remote parameterisation of the sensor via the plant’s recipe-handling system, allows diagnostic information to be called up at the press of a button, remote maintenance and, finally, offers the prerequisites for logging processes in compliance with CFR21 Part 11. This simplifies control and operation of packaging machines, with simultaneous comprehensive logging of process data.
System benefits
The communication possibilities of the KT3/IO-Link simplify both the transition between different packaging orders as well as error correction and preventive maintenance – particularly when the sensor’s signals and information are integrated in a user interface and visualised there.
Thus, during commissioning, a precise setting of the contrast scanners can be undertaken on the touch-screen for each of the packaging designs or each recipe to be processed. During operation, the particular programmed parameters (eg, contrast-related switching thresholds, transmission colour and output logic) can be called up from the automation system, transferred to the sensors and, if necessary, displayed on the panel. There is therefore no longer any need for mechanical re-adjustment of the sensors for each change of order, their settings are 100% reproducible from order to order, and processes can thus be logged in accordance with CFR21 Part 11 (the Code of Federal Regulations, Electronic Recording, Electronic Signatures; US Food & Drug Administration Regulations).
In the case of a fault, the machine operator can immediately gain an idea of the possible cause. He or she touches the appropriate sensor image on the panel and immediately obtains all the important diagnostic information, eg, current and taught-in contrast qualities. This information also makes it possible to carry out preventative plant maintenance during a break in operation and thus prevent lost time caused by unplanned machine downtimes.
For more information contact Jendamark Automation,+27 (0)41 391 4700, [email protected], www.sick.com
Further reading:
Miniature inductive sensors
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The inductive IY/IZ type sensors from ifm are used in various industrial areas where space is limited.
Read more...
The expanding role of 3D cameras in industrial quality control
TANDM Technologies
Sensors & Transducers
Across factory floors, warehouses, mines and research centres worldwide, computer vision paired with 3D camera technology is revolutionising quality control.
Read more...
PDS implementation on mines
Sensors & Transducers
Level 9 vehicle intervention for collision avoidance has been mandatory on South African mines since 2022, yet the effective roll-out of proximity detection systems remains slower than expected. This is not due to the technical limitations of integration but to operational readiness on site.
Read more...
Monitoring analogue process values
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Everywhere in industry, electronic sensors are used to detect process values such as temperature, pressure or flow. Process value monitoring often takes place directly in the sensor.
Read more...
Protecting buildings’ embodied carbon with retrofitted systems
Schneider Electric South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The World Economic Forum has said that around 80% of the buildings in existence will still be around in 2050; it is therefore essential that in order to combat climate change we retrofit them for energy efficiency.
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...
Enhancing gold leaching efficiency
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Endress+Hauser offers a range of advanced technologies designed to enhance the stability and accuracy of pH and dissolved oxygen measurements on gold processing plants.
Read more...
Powering safer mining with PDS
Sensors & Transducers
With the mining industry under increasing pressure to prioritise safety without compromising productivity, Booyco Electronics is pushing the boundaries of Proximity Detection System and Collision Avoidance System technology across both underground and surface operations.
Read more...
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...
printer friendly version