Packaging without the need for print marks is precisely what the ML20 markless sensor from SICK Automation is designed to do. Used like a print mark sensor, however it does not require any optical marking on the package, instead it detects a pre-taught design pattern. The sensor features more flexibility and design freedom and needs less set-up time, thus avoiding unnecessary use of material and therefore wastage.
Pattern instead of mark
The ML20, which can be used for controlling cutting edges, employs a novel method for contrast pattern detection. The technique involves teach-in of a pattern sequence that can be detected during processing at a scanning speed of up to 7 m/s and resulting in the output of a switching signal. Even in the case of complex designs, tolerances in the track course of the continuous material and high machine speeds, the ML20 delivers convincing performance due to reproducibility of up to 0,6 mm and extremely precise and stable pattern detection.
The ML20 opens up new possibilities for packaging processes. From the perspective of design engineers, the sensor offers a high degree of ruggedness as well as ease of integration and commissioning. For instance, the patterns to be recognised can be taught-in, saved, and then retrieved using the sensor’s operating panel, the control cable, or Ethernet. The stable and process-tolerant detection of even complex image patterns ensures high availability and minimises downtimes and set-up times when changing formats are extremely short.
When changing label or film rolls, the sensor avoids unnecessary cutting loss and waste since pattern detection is active immediately. Moreover, in the case of procedures for labelling bottles, it is possible to save additional material that used to be dedicated exclusively to the mark. The ML20 is an economical and sustainable solution.
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