At first glance, IO-Link and image processing don’t seem to go together. With the new O2I multicode reader, however, ifm shows how IO-Link can still be used in modern vision systems.
The O2I multicode reader enables various 1D and 2D codes and texts to be evaluated in a single image. Applications for this new vision sensor can be found primarily in logistics. The O2I checks the quality of codes and text information or ensures traceability along the entire process. For use in dark or shaded environments, the O2I is equipped with integrated RGBW lighting which enables reliable detection of difficult colour combinations of code, text and background.
Communication via IO-Link
The reader uses the COM3 standard with a speed of 230.4 kbaud for data transmission via IO-Link. For better transferability, data with a size of more than 32 bytes is automatically divided into several blocks and thus transferred quickly to the controller. In addition to transmission, IO-Link also makes handling the O2I multicode reader easier. Thanks to a teach button, users can easily set the sensor. To do this, the sensor is aligned with the code and then automatically performs focussing, code type recognition and exposure setting. The multicode reader is then ready for operation within a few seconds. The basic configuration is possible via a special smartphone app, which can also be used to set triggers or the IP address. The smartphone generates a Data Matrix code, which is held into the O2I’s field of view to configure the sensor.
Configuration via the ifm Vision Assistant
Even more extensive configuration is possible with the ifm Vision Assistant software. This allows users to program the sequential control within the sensor using various logic functions. Added to this is intelligent detection: the multicode reader O2I automatically recognises several different codes in one image. The codes can then be easily assigned via the Vision Assistant. A live image and comprehensive visualisation of the settings give users an optimum overview at all times.
ifm at Logimat: hall 8, stand 8F51