Banner Engineering has introduced VTB verification touch buttons - touch-activated devices featuring ultra-bright illuminated bases that provide visual signals to guide workers to the next bin to pick for the given operation. Mounted near each bin in the workstation, VTB base lights lead assemblers through the assembly sequence in the correct order. VTB buttons offer a cost-effective sequential assembly solution for part assembly and bin picking applications where space and/or access limitations prevent the use of a light screen system.
As the assembler removes each part, he or she touches the corresponding VTB button, causing the output to send a signal to the controller. The controller switches the job light for the picked bin off, verifies that the correct part has been taken, and activates the job light of the next bin to pick in the sequence. The controller can be programmed to trigger an alarm for the assembler and/or supervisor if a part is accidentally pulled from an incorrect bin.
Especially significant, the VTB's visual signals eliminate communication barriers such as technical and/or language constraints, enabling multilingual workforces to learn and maintain new assembly procedures quickly. VTB buttons reduce the occurrence of missed parts and parts assembled out of order. Along with 'error-proofing' the assembly process, VTB also increases efficiency by verifying where the assemblers left off at breaktime, enabling them to start in the correct spot every time.
VTB buttons can also be used as an automated 'call for parts' system. In these applications, users touch a bin's VTB button when parts run low, lighting the VTB base to notify the supplier.
Designed to replace capacitive touch switches and mechanical pushbuttons, VTB outputs activate when a finger inserted in the 'touch area' (yoke) breaks the infrared beam. The ergonomically designed buttons increase production quality and efficiency, without the hand, wrist and arm stress associated with repeated switch operation.
VTB buttons include LED power and output indicators, and are compatible with manufacturers' existing bins. The buttons can be programmed remotely or wired to blink or illuminate constantly. They are immune to ambient light, EMI and RFI interference, and their high excess gain cuts through heavy contamination. Users have a choice of one current sinking (NPN) open collector transistor, or one current sourcing (PNP) open collector transistor.
The new buttons are housed in a totally encapsulated nonmetallic enclosure with an upper housing made of either black polysulfone or red polycarbonate (depending on model). The electronics are completely epoxy-encapsulated. They are rated IEC IP66 and operate reliably in temperatures of -20 to +50°C. Users can select models with a 2 m PVC-jacketed cable, or a 4-pin Euro-style quick-disconnect fitting. An optional field cover is also available.
| Tel: | +27 11 453 2468 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.turckbanner.co.za |
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