Sensor permits rapid 'visual' inspection
October 2002
Sensors & Transducers
Image processing with a user-friendly, compact, plug-and-play sensor has become a reality with the ICS 100 from SICK, distributed in southern Africa by Rhomberg. Relay and switch manufacturing companies in Germany have successfully been making use of the device for monitoring the curvature of relay and switch contacts. By achieving 100% quality control, machine standstills and loss of production are prevented.
The ICS (intelligent cameral sensor) 100 is said to represent a new concept for an image processing system for industrial use. The camera, optics, illumination and evaluation units are accommodated in a single compact housing. An external module can be connected if the camera data is to be visualised. The sensor can be programmed with up to 16 separate scanning programs and can operate as a standalone unit that switches like a photoelectric switch.
A typical situation in which the ICS 100 would prevent assembly problems, machine standstills and loss of production would for example, be in the manufacture of electrical contacts where it must be ensured that contacts exhibit a defined curvature before their combination with other components.
The shape of a relay or switch contact is taught-in and saved. Thereafter all parts are compared with the expected shape stored. Evaluation of the grey-value image determines which of the switching outputs (from up to four) is set. In the process the sensor can achieve a switching frequency of up to 200 Hz. Faulty contacts are reliably detected and have no effect on the subsequent production process.
For more information contact Rhomberg, 021 552 4930, marketing@rhomberg.co.za, www.rhomberg.co.za
Further reading:
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.
Read more...
The next era of measurement and instrumentation
Sensors & Transducers
Smart sensors and non-contact radar are reshaping industrial measurement, feeding connected platforms that predict failures before they happen.
Read more...
Distance sensor for confined spaces
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The O6D100 from ifm has been designed as a powerful all-rounder for typical applications in object detection, distance measurement and positioning.
Read more...
Optimise sludge treatment and reduce operational costs
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Endress+Hauser’s 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.
Read more...
Inclination sensors for motion control
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers Motion Control & Drives
The JBC dynamic inclination sensor from ifm offers accurate angle measurement in the most demanding conditions, filtering out motion disturbances such as vibrations, shocks and vehicle dynamics to deliver reliable inclination values via IO-Link or programmable switch outputs.
Read more...
printer friendly version