Fully automated and cost effective, driverless transport systems (DTS) can increase productivity, but problems can arise when planning the operating environment. Structural measures such as carriages, induction loops, magnets or laser scanners which require reflectors on walls, shelves and machines might add complexity to the process. Any changes to the environment will require further modification. This complexity can be eliminated through the use of the Leuze ROD 4 electronic laser scanner.
“The ROD 4 unlocks the potential of driverless corridor supply vehicles,” says Gerry Bryant, managing director of Countapulse Controls. “This applies to the spatial plane used for navigation and dispenses with the need for additional navigation aids to be installed on the floor, walls or system parts.”
Bryant points out that the new autonomous navigation system (ANS) developed by Siemens incorporates the Leuzelaser scanner. “The ANS facilitates maximum flexibility for route modifications in production environments which are subjected to change.”
The system guides by means of 3D laser navigation on the hall ceiling. “The laser navigation system can be installed on a wide range of vehicles, from high lift to industrial trucks,” Bryant adds.
The scanner is mounted on a swivel motor on the top of the vehicle. Its fast, pulse propagation time technology enables the detection of 3D profiles that are generated by swivelling and by the linear forward motion of the vehicle. “This creates spatial representations of the surrounding environment which, in this case, is the hall ceiling,” Bryant explains. “These representations then serve as the basis for navigation.”
The system requires no structural measures and is easily commissioned because the route is defined by using 3D laser navigation on structural contours present in the vicinity of the hall ceiling. Subsequent route changes are easily integrated at short notice. Even integration of individual vehicles into existing production and logistics processes is economically feasible, regardless of the current production layout.
“Flexibility is one of the major advantages,” Bryant says, “We work closely with customers to define the best solutions and provide the benefit of the backing we enjoy from our German principals through a comprehensive technical advisory service.”
Telco sensors in conveyor belt monitoring
Sensors & Transducers
Gail Norton Instrumentation Agencies has developed a low-maintenance conveyor belt monitoring unit built on robust Telco infrared sensors, detecting belt tear and misalignment reliably in harsh coal mining environments.
Read more...Inductive ring sensors monitor material flow in feeding technology ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
ifm’s inductive ring sensors detect metallic parts such as screws and nuts as they pass through tubes at speeds up to 35 m/s, enabling precise counting, flow control and blockage detection, with sensitivity and output functions configurable via IO-Link.
Read more...Reliable 1D and 2D code reading made simple SICK Automation Southern Africa
Sensors & Transducers
SICK’s new sensingCam SEC200 image-based code reader brings supermarket-checkout simplicity to logistics and industrial identification, reading 1D and 2D codes reliably with quick browser-based setup, rugged IP65 construction and CRA-compliant cybersecurity.
Read more...Market opportunity for sensors in humanoid robots
Sensors & Transducers
A new IDTechEx report forecasts the market for sensors in humanoid robots will exceed $6,59 billion by 2037, driven by perception sensors, force/torque sensors, encoders and inertial measurement units across a growing range of commercial robot platforms.
Read more...The wireless route to safer, more efficient mining operations Emerson Automation Solutions
Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Modern wireless level measurement technologies are helping mining operations improve process control, increase safety and reduce installation costs. Emerson’s Rosemount 3408 wireless non-contacting radar level transmitter uses 80 GHz frequency-modulated continuous wave radar with HART communication to reach remote assets where cabling is impractical.
Read more...Telco sensors for harsh environments
Sensors & Transducers
Telco sensors are designed to operate where moisture, particulate contamination and surface fouling would disable conventional sensors, with a range including an adjustable five-metre infrared proximity sensor for harsh industrial environments.
Read more...The data-driven path to sustainable manufacturing ifm - South Africa
Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Smart automation is closing the gap between operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, and the data to do it is already inside the plant. With ifm’s sensing and digitalisation technologies, manufacturers can turn machine intelligence into measurable sustainability gains.
Read more...Expanding visibility in mining operations Emerson Automation Solutions
Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Advances in wireless communications, condition monitoring and sensing technologies are helping mining operators extend measurement into previously under-monitored areas, improving equipment reliability, process performance and water stewardship.
Read more...Fiber-optic amplifiers for precise object detection ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The OCF fibre-optic amplifier detects even the smallest or most transparent objects in confined spaces, making proven fibre-optic technology easier and more user-friendly than before.
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